How to calculate the number of tiles needed to tile a staircase

It is clear that knowing how to lay tiling on a staircase can represent a chore without sound advice. However, thanks to our tips, you will gain confidence in accurately calculating the number of tiles needed to cover your staircase.

Write down the following information on a sheet of paper or a notebook.

• The size of the tiles in meters.
• The width of the steps in mm.
• The depth of the steps in mm.
• The height of the riser in mm.
• The surface area of ​​the bearing in mm (width and depth).
• The number of steps: also count those that require a border tile.

In order to learn how to lay tiling on a staircase, it is essential to carry out certain measurements.

Tile size

Decide on the size of tiles you want to lay on your stair treads. Be aware that most people opt for tiles of the same size as those laid on the ground floor leading to the stairs. By following this principle, you order more tiles and have the assurance that they come from the same batch. The finish of the tiles for stairs is thus more uniform.
Then, the tile should be polished with a marble or porcelain polisher which is used to round the edge. This tool also allows you to create three or four grooves along each step to provide additional security.

Step width

Now measure the entire step. You need to think about where you want to place the cement joint. The two most common options are to join the tiles in the middle or to have one tile in the middle. You therefore do not have porous cement joints at the passage point and two tiles cut on each side with a less aesthetic appearance.
Additionally, check that you have no cut edges against the wall or side. Because the tiles are sharp, you can hurt yourself and these will never be as straight as a factory cut edge.
As an example, if you are getting a tread width of 910 to 1200 mm, you would use two tiles 600 × 600 mm wide. Any scraps will be unusable, but this won’t break your budget.

Step depth

Measure from the front edge of the step to the back edge of the step. Generally, it is between 200 and 400 mm. Note this measurement and check that the length of the tile is longer than the depth of your step. This is essential if you do not want to make an additional cement joint.
If your step is 250mm deep, a 600mm tile is suitable. The 350mm drop will be used on the riser.

Riser height

In France, most risers measure 16 to 20 cm. Now add the riser height to the tread depth. It should be less than the length of your tile, so that you only need one tile to make the tread and riser simultaneously.
If your step is 910 to 1200 mm wide, you will need two 600 × 600 mm tiles per step, riser included.

The surface area of ​​the landing

To do this, calculate its surface area by measuring its width by its depth. Plan the number of tiles needed.
If your landing measures 1100mm wide x 1100mm deep, you will need four 600 × 600mm tiles.
Be careful ! If your staircase changes direction, make sure the cement joints line up in both directions. You probably need additional tiles to make tiles for stairs.

Number of steps

It makes sense to spot steps that require a rounded edge. Usually, the first step is level with the ground and does not need to be counted. Even though the top level isn’t technically a step, the tile will require a rounded edge. Also make sure all the steps are the same size.

First determine how many tiles you need by following the pattern shown above. Then multiply it by the number of steps and add your landing tiles.
Example

• The size of the tiles: 0.6 m × 0.6 m corresponds to 600 × 600 mm.
• The width of the step: 1100 mm.
• The depth of the step: 230 mm.
• The height of the riser: 190 mm.
• The surface area of ​​the bearing: 1,100 mm (width) x 1,100 mm (length).
• The number of steps: for example 18. Also count those that require a border tile.

In the example above, you estimate that each step requires two tiles. Multiply this number by the number of steps and it equals 36 tiles. Then add the 4 necessary steps to the landing and you get 40 tiles. Add about two extra tiles for cutting errors, etc. You have a total of 42 tiles.

Multiply 42 tiles (0.6 × 0.6) corresponding to the size of the tile in meters. This is equivalent to 15.12 square meters. You must then use 38 tiles for the border, plus two additional ones dedicated to spares or errors. In this way, 40 tiles will be polished and rounded.

There is an often overlooked space hidden under the stairs. Many people have the excellent idea of ​​using this nook and cranny to design storage. In this case, consider tiling this additional space so that it is aesthetic and harmonious.

Furthermore, we hope that our tips have helped you with your calculations. Otherwise, contact us online or meet our technicians on site with your measurements. In addition, we can also send you a list of craftsmen equipped with polishers and groovers to round your marble and porcelain tiles.
The information we have communicated to you concerns traditional staircases. Some mid-height stairs without landings are common in many apartments and townhouses. Sometimes spiral staircases turn 45 degrees and rise to the next level.

If you doubt the accuracy of your measurements, please call on seasoned professionals to design your tiles for stairs . Novoceram is committed to advising you according to your needs. We therefore offer you a wide range of quality tiles suitable for stairs and the rest of your home. In addition, our prices are designed for all budgets. Visit our showroom now or compare and buy tiles in our online store.