Key Takeaways
- Removal and surface preparation can change the price before new tiles are laid
- Tile size, pattern, cuts, niches and junctions affect the labour involved
- Wet-area waterproofing may form part of the quote when Ace is doing the tiling
- A site-specific quote is the only reliable way to price the complete job
Why bathroom tiling prices vary
A bathroom is a small room with a lot of detail. Floors need to meet drains, wall tiles need to finish neatly around fittings, and the existing surfaces may need work before the first tile is laid.
That is why a square-metre rate rarely tells you the full price of bathroom tiling.
The main things that affect the quote
Removal and preparation
Removing old tiles, disposing of them and preparing the exposed surface all take time. If the surface is uneven or unsuitable for the chosen finish, that needs to be dealt with before tiling starts.
Ask whether removal, disposal and preparation are included in any price you compare.
Tile size and layout
Large tiles can reduce the number of grout lines, but they may need more careful handling and surface preparation. Small tiles and mosaics involve more individual pieces. Patterns, niches, mitred edges and other details also add setting out and cutting.
Wet-area waterproofing
Wet-area waterproofing may be included when it forms part of preparing the bathroom for Ace's tiling work. Ace does not offer waterproofing on its own.
Applicable work may need to follow NCC requirements and AS 3740 for domestic wet areas.
Fixtures, edges and penetrations
The quote also needs to allow for drains, taps, shower screens, windows, doorways, trims and the way the tiled surfaces meet the rest of the room.
Other licensed trades
A bathroom renovation may need plumbing, electrical or carpentry. Ace can coordinate appropriately licensed subcontractors when those trades form part of the agreed renovation.
Labour rates are only a starting point
For broad early budgeting, our Sydney tiling cost guide gives Ace's starting labour allowance and explains what can move the quote up or down. It does not price the complete bathroom.
The most useful comparison is a written quote that makes clear:
- which areas will be tiled;
- whether old finishes are being removed;
- what preparation is included;
- whether wet-area waterproofing is included with the tiling;
- who supplies the tiles and trims; and
- which other trades are involved.
What to send for a bathroom tiling quote
Send the property suburb, current photos, approximate floor and wall dimensions, and any tile choices or plans you already have. Ace will confirm whether a site inspection is needed and advise availability as soon as possible.
Ace Tiling Sydney
Sydney tiling and renovation business
Practical tiling and renovation advice from an owner-operated Sydney business with more than 15 years of trade experience.
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