Backsplash Square Footage Calculator
Measure your kitchen or bathroom backsplash area to estimate tile, mosaic sheets, or stone slab needed. Most kitchen backsplashes run 18 inches tall above the counter.
Backsplash Area Calculator
Standard backsplash heights
A standard kitchen backsplash is 18 inches tall (1.5 ft), running from the countertop up to the bottom of the upper cabinets. Behind the range or sink, many homeowners now run tile all the way to the ceiling for a "full-height" backsplash, which can be 24, 30, or even 54+ inches depending on cabinet layout.
Bathroom vanity backsplashes are usually 4 inches (a single tile course) or 18 inches if matched to a kitchen aesthetic. Tub surrounds typically run from the tub deck to 6 ft or to the ceiling.
Why backsplash waste runs higher
Backsplashes have more cuts per square foot than almost any other tile project: outlets, switch boxes, window jambs, end caps, and the inside corner where the tile meets the counter. Pattern-heavy designs (herringbone, picket, hex) waste even more material.
Order at least 15% extra for standard subway tile in a stacked or running-bond pattern. Bump that to 20% for herringbone, hex, or mosaic sheets. For natural stone or hand-made tile (where you may need to color-match within the box), 25% is reasonable.
Pro tips
Subtract big openings
Window over the sink? Measure the window opening and subtract it. Don't bother subtracting outlets, switches, or small obstructions - your waste factor covers them.
Buy mosaic sheets, not loose tile
Mosaic sheets list coverage per sheet (usually ~1 sq ft). Divide your area by the sheet coverage and round up. Buy from a single dye lot.
Account for the bullnose
Edges that aren't under cabinet need finish trim - bullnose, schluter, or pencil liner. Measure linear feet of exposed edge separately.
Check thickness with countertop
Glass and ceramic backsplash tile is usually 1/4 to 3/8 inch thick. Stone can be 1/2 inch or more. Confirm clearance behind the range and outlet box depth before ordering.