Tiling costs: Compare & save

Disclaimer: Prices in this guide are based on data from 2011 and are subject to fluctuations in the market.

To get a tiler on a bent knee for your project will cost you between $28 and $55 per square metre. Tiler square metre rates A budget rate of approximately $35 is generally quoted for laying large tiles (larger than 12 inches x 12 inches), while $40 is about average for standard-sized ones. For more complex and time-consuming jobs, like those involving mosaic patterns, you will pay a premium rate of upwards of $45. These prices typically include labour and basic materials such as glue and grout. However, they generally don’t include the cost of tiles, so you need to remember to add them to your budget separately. 

Tiling tasks & costs: There are a few factors that affect the size of your quote for a tiling job if you opt to pay by task. The size of the tile and space can take your floor tiling quote from a budget price of $850 to a premium of $3,000. Extras such as sealing, waterproofing, and the preparation of floor bedding are usually included in premium rates, so you are getting more for your money.

• Kitchen & bathroom tiling – The household bathroom and kitchen are the most likely rooms to be renovated – and more often than not, at least one will require tiling to complete the job. The type of room also changes the price, with bathrooms fetching a higher price than kitchens. They attract quotes ranging between $800 to $3,000 and $400 to $2,400, respectively.
• Feature tiling – For small fiddly jobs like feature tiling and kitchen splashback, you’ll pay an average of $500-$600. The simpler tasks can cost as little as $150, but if you’re after something a bit fancier, you’ll be asked to pay a premium of about $1,600.
• Outdoor tiling – Outdoor tiling is the most expensive, with quotes usually starting at $1,080 and working their way up to $3,300.

Tiler rates by state: Of the eastern states, only Queensland pays the national average of $40 per square metre. The tiling rates in NSW are 5% more than this and in Victoria 12.5% more, making it $45. Interestingly, NSW and Victoria pay less than Queensland when charged by task, with Victoria paying much less than their cousins up north. This might be something to keep in mind when choosing your payment method. Tiling prices can vary, so shop around and, short of moving state to get a better price, do what you can to get the most for your dollar.