The Cost of Tiling a Bathroom

A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Tiling is one of the most crucial aspects of a bathroom renovation, significantly impacting both the budget and the final look of your space. If you’re wondering about the cost of tiling a bathroom, you’re not alone. Homeowners often ask, how much does it cost to renovate a small bathroom?, or how much bathroom renovations cost overall? 

This guide breaks down the various factors that influence pricing, from material choices to labour expenses, and provides actionable tips to keep your renovation within budget.

What Influences the Cost of Tiling a Bathroom?

Several factors determine the cost of tiling a bathroom, including tile type, installation complexity, and bathroom size.

1. Material Selection

The cost of bathroom tiles varies widely, depending on the material, size, and quality. Here are a few key considerations:

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles: Affordable, durable, and widely used.
• Natural Stone Tiles: More expensive due to material and sealing requirements.
• Mosaic & Large Format Tiles: Typically higher in bathroom tiling cost due to complex installation.

2. Installation Complexity

The way tiles are laid impacts bathroom remodel cost as well. Standard tile patterns are more affordable, while intricate designs like herringbone, chevron, or diagonal layouts require more labour, increasing expenses. 

Ensure you have a tiling plan before any works begin so the lay pattern is clear and agreed. You don’t want any surprises once they are in place as this is a costly fix.

3. Labour Costs

Labour is a significant portion of the cost to tile a bathroom. While material costs can vary greatly, the labour costs for standard tile installation remain relatively fixed. Expect higher costs for difficult layouts or working with uneven surfaces. 

Remember tiling is the main feature of your bathroom; selecting a contractor based only on cost may not give the result you desire.

For expert assistance, check out Our Renovation Services.

Detailed Breakdown of Tiling Expenses

Understanding the bathroom remodel price requires a detailed look at where your money goes:

1. Materials Cost

The cost of bathroom tiles can range from $20 per square metre for budget tiles to $300+ per square metre for premium selections. Choosing tiles within your budget is crucial since this cost significantly impacts your overall renovation budget.

2. Labour Costs

The cost to renovate a bathroom includes tiling labour, typically priced between $80-$200 per square metre. This cost depends on factors like:

• Tile size and type
• Complexity of the pattern
• Bathroom size and accessibility

For homeowners considering cost-effective solutions, bathroom tile resurfacing cost can be an alternative to complete retiling.

Tips for Managing and Reducing Tiling Costs

Renovating on a budget? Here are some strategies to lower the bathroom remodel cost:

1. Tile Only the Wet Areas

A budget-friendly approach is tiling only essential areas like the shower recess and vanity splashback while using skirting tiles elsewhere.

2. Opt for Standard Tile Sizes and Layouts

Tiles between 300x300mm and 600x600mm are the most cost-effective. Choosing a standard lay pattern instead of complex designs helps reduce installation costs.

3. Compare Costs for Different Bathroom Sizes

The small bathroom renovation cost Australia is lower than for larger bathrooms due to reduced material and labour expenses. 

A small bathroom with tiles only in the wet areas may only require 10m2 of tiling. Whereas a large bathroom could require more than 40m2 of tiling in a larger & more luxurious design.

If you’re on a tight budget, focus on essential upgrades rather than full-scale renovations.

For more bathroom renovation cost information, explore our bathroom pricing article.

The cost of tiling a bathroom depends on several factors, including materials, labour, and layout complexity. While tiling is a significant expense in bathroom renovations, smart planning and budgeting can help keep costs manageable. Whether you’re looking for premium tiles or affordable alternatives, understanding your options is key to making informed decisions.

The saying “you get what you pay for” is never more true than when speaking of tiling. A poor tile lay will compromise your entire renovation. Always look at the project portfolio of your chosen renovator and ensure you have clear, documented plans to avoid mistakes and re-works.

Need help planning your renovation? 

Contact The Inside Project for expert advice and tailored solutions!