How Much Does Tiling Cost in Sydney?

Ace's starting guide to tiling costs

Tiling prices vary because the square metres are only one part of the job. Tile choice, surface preparation, layout, access and finishing details all affect the amount of work involved.

For early budgeting, Ace suggests allowing roughly $45 to $150 per square metre for labour, including GST. A straightforward open area with a sound surface is more likely to sit toward the lower end. Smaller rooms, detailed layouts, difficult access or heavier preparation can move toward or beyond the upper end.

This is an early planning allowance for labour only. It does not include tiles, removal, disposal, surface repairs, levelling, wet-area preparation, trims or other trades. Ace prepares the quote for the actual work once the area, tiles and preparation are understood.

What usually changes a tiling quote?

The tile you choose

Tile material, size, thickness, edge finish and pattern all affect handling and installation. A straightforward layout using a readily available tile is different from mosaics, natural stone, fragile finishes or a pattern that needs more setting out and cutting.

Allow for tile wastage as well. The amount depends on the layout, tile variation and number of cuts rather than one standard percentage for every room.

The existing surface

The surface needs to be suitable for the proposed tiles. A quote may need to allow for removing existing finishes, cleaning, minor repairs, levelling or other preparation before laying begins.

Photos are useful at the enquiry stage, but they cannot always show movement, hollow areas, moisture damage, levels or falls. We will let you know if a site visit is needed.

Removal and disposal

Removing existing tiles can add labour, noise, dust handling and disposal. It can also reveal conditions that were hidden before the old finish came off.

If you are considering laying over existing tiles, read Can new tiles go over existing tiles?. The old tiles need to be firmly fixed and in good condition.

Layout, cuts and finishing

Straightforward open floors generally involve less detailed cutting than small rooms, stairs, niches, corners, penetrations, feature strips or patterned layouts. Edge trims, transitions and junctions should also be clear in the quote.

Access and working conditions

Parking, stairs, lifts, distance from the unloading point, restricted work areas and coordination with other trades can affect the time involved. Tell the contractor about access when requesting the quote so it is considered early.

How the area being tiled affects the price

Floor tiling

Floor tiling quotes usually consider the room size, existing flooring, levels, tile format, layout and transitions into adjoining rooms. Large tiles do not automatically make a job quicker; the surface and installation requirements still matter.

Wall and splashback tiling

Wall tiling and kitchen tiling can involve detailed setting out around cabinetry, power points, windows and corners. Tile size, pattern and edge treatment often have more influence than the small area suggests.

Bathroom tiling

Bathroom tiling may involve floor and wall preparation, falls, junctions, penetrations and wet-area waterproofing in preparation for tiling. We do not offer waterproofing as a stand-alone service.

For a bathroom renovation, the quote should also show any plumbing, electrical or carpentry being coordinated.

Outdoor tiling

For outdoor tiling, we look at the surface, exposure, falls, drainage, edges, access and intended tile. Weather and curing can also affect timing.

What should a tiling quote explain?

A useful quote should make it possible to understand what you are paying for. Depending on the job, look for:

• the room, surface or measured area included;
• removal and disposal, if required;
• the preparation allowed for;
• whether tiles and other materials are supplied by you or the contractor;
• the intended layout and key finishing details;
• wet-area preparation or waterproofing included with the tiling work;
• work being completed by other licensed trades;
• exclusions or conditions that could change the price; and
• expected timing and payment terms.

Compare the preparation, materials, inclusions and exclusions as well as the total price.

Information to send when requesting a quote

Help us understand the job by sending:

• the property suburb;
• the room or outdoor area involved;
• approximate dimensions, if known;
• photos of the current surface and surrounding edges;
• whether existing tiles or finishes need removal;
• the tile type, size or product link, if selected;
• your preferred layout or finish; and
• any access restrictions or timing considerations.

We provide free quotes and consultations and will let you know if a site visit is needed.

Get a price for the actual work

Send us the project details and any useful photos to request a free quote.