Three quantities you should not mix up
Tesela separates what other calculators add into a single number:
- Pieces on your surface. How many pieces of tile (whole or cut) are needed to cover it with this layout. This is geometry.
- Source tiles. How many bought tiles are used. Without reusing offcuts it is one per piece; reusing offcuts it can be fewer (an estimate).
- Indicative purchase. Source tiles plus the allowance you choose for breakage and mistakes.
What each layout changes
Straight aligns the joints and usually means fewer cuts. Brick offsets each row (1/2, 1/3 or 1/4) and end cuts can sometimes complement each other. Diagonal (45°) creates many triangular cuts and each counts as one tile. With a centered start cuts are split evenly on both sides; from the corner there are usually fewer cut pieces but one side is cut more. The tool shows you both figures.
Limits of the calculation
- Offcut reuse is a heuristic: it groups single-cut offcuts into one tile; it does not guarantee the lowest possible number.
- It assumes plain tile (no pattern, grain or shade that forces a direction) and subtracts the saw cut width you enter.
- It does not count breakage or mistakes beyond the allowance you add, nor adhesive or grout.
- This is not a professional installation plan: your installer should set it out before cutting and buying.
Frequently asked questions
Does it work for walls?
Yes: choose “Wall” and enter width and height. The calculation is the same as a rectangular floor.
Why two source-tile numbers?
Because it depends on whether you reuse offcuts. The first assumes you do not; the second groups compatible offcuts into one tile.
Does it support herringbone or L-shaped rooms?
Not yet: rectangular surfaces with straight, brick and 45° diagonal layouts.
What does the PDF include?
A vector plan to scale with a scale bar, measurements, the three quantities and the cut list, with no watermark.