Frequently Asked Questions

Ace Tiling Sydney has been providing professional tiling services throughout the Sydney metropolitan area for over 15 years. During this time, we've completed thousands of successful tiling projects across residential and commercial properties, establishing ourselves as one of Sydney's most trusted tiling specialists.

Yes, Ace Tiling Sydney is fully licensed and insured. We hold contractor licence 957882283 and all required licences for tiling work in NSW, including waterproofing certification. Our insurance includes $20M public liability to protect your property. We're also WorkCover NSW approved and adhere to all relevant Australian Standards for tiling installation.

We provide our professional tiling services throughout the Sydney metropolitan area, including the Eastern Suburbs, Sydney City, the Inner West, the North Shore, the Hills District, Parramatta, and Ryde. We're happy to travel to most locations within the greater Sydney region for tiling projects.

Simply contact us via phone or through our online enquiry form with details about your project. For accurate quotes, we arrange a site visit to assess the space, take measurements, discuss your material preferences, and identify any specific requirements. This on-site assessment allows us to provide a detailed, transparent quote tailored to your project. Our quotes are obligation-free and include a full breakdown of costs.

Yes, we provide free, no-obligation quotes for all tiling projects. After assessing your space and requirements, we'll provide a detailed written quote that breaks down the costs involved, including labour, materials, preparation work, and any additional services like waterproofing. Our quotes are transparent with no hidden costs, giving you a clear understanding of your investment before you commit to the project.

We work with all types of tiles including porcelain, ceramic, natural stone (marble, granite, limestone, travertine, slate), glass, mosaics, terrazzo, and large-format porcelain panels. Each material has its own advantages depending on the application area and your aesthetic preferences. Our experienced tilers are skilled in working with all tile types, sizes, and installation patterns to create beautiful, durable tiled surfaces throughout your home or commercial space.

We offer flexibility in this regard. You can either supply your own tiles that you've selected, or we can recommend and supply quality tiles for your project. If you choose to supply your own tiles, we recommend purchasing 10-15% extra to account for cuts, breakages, and future repairs. If you'd like us to supply tiles, we have established relationships with leading Sydney tile suppliers and can often secure competitive pricing. We're also happy to accompany you to tile showrooms to provide expert advice on suitable options for your specific application.

Different areas require different tile characteristics. For wet areas like bathrooms and pool surrounds, we recommend porcelain or ceramic tiles with appropriate slip resistance ratings (P3-P5 depending on the specific area). Kitchen floors benefit from durable, easy-to-clean porcelain tiles, while splashbacks can incorporate decorative elements like glass mosaics. Living areas often work well with larger format tiles to create a clean, continuous look, while outdoor areas require frost-resistant, slip-resistant options. During our consultation, we'll discuss your specific needs, usage patterns, and aesthetic preferences to recommend the most suitable tiles for each space in your home.

While both are clay-based tiles, porcelain is fired at higher temperatures, making it denser, less porous, and typically more durable than ceramic. Porcelain has a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%, making it excellent for wet areas and outdoor applications. It's generally more frost-resistant, harder, and more difficult to cut than ceramic. Ceramic tiles are usually more affordable, easier to cut, and available in a wider range of colours and patterns, but they're typically less durable and more porous. For high-traffic areas or wet spaces, we often recommend porcelain for its superior durability and water resistance, while ceramic can be suitable for wall applications and lower-traffic areas.

Rectified tiles have had their edges precisely ground to create tiles with exact dimensions, allowing for very thin grout lines (as small as 2mm) and a cleaner appearance. Non-rectified tiles have slightly irregular edges and require wider grout joints (typically 4-5mm). Rectified tiles are ideal for contemporary, minimalist designs where a clean, continuous surface is desired. They're particularly effective with large-format tiles. Non-rectified tiles are generally more affordable and more forgiving during installation, especially on walls that aren't perfectly flat. We can discuss whether rectified tiles would benefit your specific project during our consultation.

Yes, we specialise in complete bathroom renovations. Our service includes demolition of existing fixtures and tiles, waterproofing, tiling of floors and walls, installation of shower screens, bathtubs, vanities, and all fixtures. We coordinate all required trades including plumbing and electrical work to deliver a smooth renovation from design to completion, with all work complying with Australian Standards and building codes.

The duration of bathroom tiling depends on several factors including the size of the bathroom, complexity of the design, tile size and pattern, and whether preparation work like waterproofing is required. As a general guide, a standard bathroom (approximately 5-8m²) typically takes 3-5 days for complete tiling, including preparation and grouting. This timeframe may extend for complex designs involving feature walls, mosaics, or intricate patterns. For complete bathroom renovations, the entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks, allowing for demolition, plumbing rough-in, waterproofing, tiling, fixture installation, and finishing touches.

Yes, waterproofing is absolutely essential before tiling wet areas like bathrooms. In Australia, waterproofing of wet areas is regulated by Australian Standard AS 3740, which specifies minimum requirements to prevent water damage to adjoining building elements. Proper waterproofing is critical to prevent leaks, water damage, mould growth, and structural issues. We apply certified waterproofing systems to shower recesses, bathroom floors, and walls as required by regulations. Our waterproofing is installed by licensed professionals and includes appropriate treatment of junctions, penetrations, and drainage points to ensure a completely watertight space before tiling commences.

While it's technically possible to tile over existing bathroom tiles in some situations, we generally don't recommend this approach for wet areas. Tiling over existing tiles doesn't allow for inspection of the substrate for water damage, doesn't permit the application of new waterproofing, adds significant weight to walls and floors, and increases floor height which may cause issues with doors and fixtures. For bathrooms, we typically recommend removing old tiles, assessing and repairing the substrate, applying proper waterproofing, and then installing new tiles. This ensures a watertight, properly bonded installation that will perform well for many years.

For small bathrooms, we often recommend medium-sized tiles (30x60cm or 45x45cm) which provide a good balance between visual appeal and practical installation. Larger format tiles (60x60cm or larger) can actually make a small bathroom appear more spacious by reducing grout lines and creating a cleaner surface. Using the same tile on both floors and walls can also open up the sense of space. For very small bathrooms or powder rooms, mosaic tiles or small-format tiles (10x10cm) can create interesting visual effects but will have more grout lines. During our consultation, we can help you decide the best tile size for your bathroom.

Kitchen splashbacks require tiles that are easy to clean, stain-resistant, and can withstand heat and moisture. Popular options include ceramic and porcelain tiles, glass tiles, mosaics, and large-format porcelain sheets. Ceramic and porcelain are durable and available in countless designs. Glass tiles or mosaics create a reflective surface that brightens the kitchen and offers vibrant colour options. Large-format porcelain with minimal grout lines provides a clean, contemporary look that's easy to maintain. We can help you select the perfect splashback tiles based on your kitchen design, colour scheme, and practical requirements. We also ensure proper installation with appropriate waterproofing and heat-resistant adhesives, particularly around cooktops.

For kitchen flooring, durability, water resistance, and ease of cleaning are top priorities. Porcelain tiles are often the ideal choice for kitchen floors due to their exceptional durability, minimal porosity (less than 0.5%), stain resistance, and low maintenance requirements. For busy family kitchens, we typically recommend porcelain tiles with a slip resistance rating of at least P3. Natural stone options like granite or slate can also work well when properly sealed. Large-format tiles (60x60cm or larger) minimise grout lines, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. For a warmer feel underfoot, porcelain tiles that mimic timber are an excellent option, providing the warmth and character of wood with the practicality and durability of porcelain.

The timeline for kitchen tiling depends on the specific areas being tiled and the complexity of the installation. For a standard kitchen splashback (approximately 3-5m²), installation typically takes 1-2 days, including preparation and grouting. Kitchen floor tiling generally requires 1-3 days depending on the size of the space, complexity of the layout, and whether old flooring needs to be removed. Complex designs involving patterns, feature areas, or multiple tile types may extend this timeframe. We always aim to work efficiently while maintaining our high quality standards, and we'll provide a specific timeline estimate for your kitchen tiling project during our consultation.

Yes, we can tile around existing kitchen cabinets, which is often done when replacing splashbacks or flooring without a full kitchen renovation. This approach requires careful measurement and precise cutting to ensure tiles fit neatly against cabinetry, benchtops, and appliances. For splashbacks, we ensure proper preparation of the existing wall surface and use appropriate waterproofing where required. For floors, we carefully protect your cabinetry during the installation process and ensure proper transitions between the new tiled surface and cabinet kickboards. While tiling around existing elements is certainly possible, if you're planning a complete kitchen renovation, it's generally more efficient to install flooring before cabinetry to achieve the cleanest finish.

While full waterproofing membrane systems (as used in bathrooms) aren't typically required for kitchen splashbacks, proper water protection is still important, particularly around sinks and cooktops. For most kitchen splashbacks, we recommend water-resistant tile adhesives and high-quality epoxy or stain-resistant grouts. For areas around sinks or where water exposure is higher, we apply appropriate waterproofing products to prevent moisture penetration into the wall substrate. This targeted approach provides necessary protection while being cost-effective. During installation, we pay particular attention to sealing joints between tiles and benchtops, around power points, and at internal corners to ensure a water-resistant installation that protects your walls from potential water damage.

For Sydney's climate with hot summers, occasional heavy rainfall, and mild winters, we recommend porcelain tiles with slip resistance ratings of R11 or higher for outdoor applications. Porcelain is excellent for outdoor use due to its extremely low water absorption rate (<0.5%), frost resistance, UV stability, and durability. Other suitable options include certain natural stones like granite, bluestone, and slate, which offer natural slip resistance and character but require proper sealing. For pool surrounds, we recommend specialised pool coping tiles with rounded edges and high slip resistance. All outdoor tiles should have appropriate thickness (at least 10mm) and be installed with exterior-grade adhesives and grouts designed to withstand temperature fluctuations and weather exposure. We also implement proper drainage falls (typically 1:100) to prevent water pooling on tiled outdoor surfaces.

Safety is paramount for outdoor tiling. We select tiles with appropriate slip resistance ratings based on the specific application, typically R11 or higher for general outdoor areas and R12-R13 for pool surrounds, steps, and ramps. These ratings are standardised measures of slip resistance, with higher numbers indicating better traction when wet. We also ensure proper drainage with correct falls (typically minimum 1:100) to prevent water pooling. For existing outdoor tiles that have become slippery, we can apply anti-slip treatments that increase surface traction without significantly changing the tile's appearance.

Yes, we specialise in all aspects of pool tiling including pool interiors, waterline tiles, coping, and surrounds. Pool tiling requires specific expertise due to the constant water exposure, chemical treatments, and structural considerations. We use materials specifically manufactured for pool applications, including acid-resistant tiles for waterlines and fully vitrified porcelain or glass mosaics for pool interiors. Our installation techniques for pools include using flexible, waterproof adhesives and epoxy grouts that withstand chemical exposure. We pay particular attention to expansion joints, waterproofing integration, and proper drainage falls for pool surrounds. Our pool tiling services comply with all relevant Australian Standards and local regulations to ensure a beautiful, durable, and safe pool environment.

Balcony waterproofing and tiling is a specialised service that requires careful attention to detail due to the exposed nature of these areas. Our process includes thorough substrate preparation, certified multi-layer waterproofing with proper upturns at walls and penetrations, drainage systems with correct falls (typically 1:80 minimum), and weather-resistant tiles using exterior-grade adhesives and flexible grouts. We pay particular attention to critical junctions, doorway thresholds, and drainage outlets. For balconies, we recommend porcelain tiles with slip resistance of R11 or higher.

Yes, we specialise in custom mosaic installations and complex pattern designs. Our skilled tilers can create custom feature walls, inlays, borders, medallions, and artistic compositions using various mosaic materials including glass, ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and metal. We can work from your design concepts or collaborate with you to develop custom patterns that complement your space. From traditional Mediterranean-inspired patterns to contemporary geometric designs, we create detailed layout plans before installation to ensure a precise result.

Tiling costs in Sydney vary based on material selection, complexity of installation, site preparation, and application area. As a general guide: basic ceramic wall tiling ranges from $45-80 per m² (installation only), porcelain floor tiling from $50-90 per m², and complex installations involving mosaics or large-format tiles from $80-150+ per m². Complete bathroom tiling including waterproofing typically ranges from $120-200+ per m² depending on complexity. For a detailed breakdown, see our tiling cost guide. We provide itemised quotes based on your specific requirements.

Yes, we stand behind the quality of our work with a 7-year workmanship warranty covering tile bonding, grouting, and waterproofing. If tiles become loose, grout fails, or waterproofing issues occur due to installation defects within this period, we rectify the problem at no cost to you. We also pass on manufacturers' warranties for all products and materials we supply. Warranty documentation is provided upon project completion, outlining coverage terms and maintenance requirements.

For standard tiling projects, we typically require a 20% deposit to secure your booking and cover initial material purchases, with the balance payable upon completion. For larger projects like complete bathroom renovations or extensive tiling work, we generally structure payments in stages: 20% deposit, 30% upon completion of preparation and waterproofing, 30% upon completion of tiling installation, and the final 20% upon project completion and final inspection. This staged approach aligns payments with project milestones while providing you with financial security. All payment terms are clearly outlined in our written quotation and service agreement before any work commences.

We recommend booking our services 2-4 weeks in advance for standard tiling projects to secure your preferred start date. For larger renovation projects like complete bathrooms or extensive tiling work, booking 4-6 weeks ahead is advisable. During peak renovation seasons (typically September-December and January-March), our schedule fills quickly, so earlier booking is recommended. For urgent projects or repairs, we do maintain some flexibility for emergency work and will accommodate your timeline where possible. Once booked, we provide confirmed start and estimated completion dates, and we pride ourselves on meeting these commitments.

Yes, we offer full project management for renovations involving multiple trades, particularly for bathroom renovations, kitchen upgrades, and other tiling-intensive projects. This includes coordinating all necessary trades (plumbers, electricians, carpenters), developing project timelines, managing material deliveries, ensuring quality control, and providing regular progress updates. For complete renovations, we also assist with design guidance, material selection, and obtaining necessary approvals when required.