Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

How much does it cost to get tiling done?

You can install tiling on your floors, walls, counters, kitchen backsplash, outdoor patio and shower — to name a few places. Tile is beautiful, easy to clean, durable, and resilient against kids and pets. The national average for tile installation cost ranges between $490 and $750. Often, tile installation specialists quote a price per square foot for installation. Costs can increase if you want the pro to supply the tile instead of ordering it yourself. Other factors that can increase cost include specialized installation with a unique design that will require more labor to install.

Prep work will also affect tile installation costs. Demolition of the existing floor, counter or backsplash takes time and energy that will be reflected in the price. Necessary repairs, such as a sub-floor that needs bolstering before tile flooring can be installed, will also increase costs. For tile showers, one example of tile installation cost may be approximately $25 per square foot including all materials and labor. Average tile installation costs for backsplashes may run anywhere from $10 to $40, depending on the materials selected and the amount of labor required. The larger the area where tile is being installed, the lower the price per square foot will likely be. For example, a flooring pro may charge approximately $3.50 per square foot for wood-look tile installation in an area ranging between 6 feet by 24 feet and 8 feet by 48 feet.

How much does it cost to tile a shower?

The cost of tiling a shower depends on two main factors: the size of the shower and the quality of the tiles. In general, most professional tilers charge an average of $25 per square foot of tiled area and the national average cost for a tile installation project is $490-$750. The tiles themselves are the greatest variable; the cost depends on their size, shape, pattern and manufacturer. For example, tile purchased at a volume discount from a big-box store cost far less than tiles made in small batches by an artisan ceramics shop. Prices can range from as little as $1 to $50 or more per square foot of tile. Other factors that will drive up the total tile installation cost are grout and mortar, speciality tiles like bullnose caps or soap holders, and surface prep materials, especially if drywall needs to be replaced before the tile can be installed. Many tile installers will also remove and haul away any old materials from an existing shower installation.

How much does it cost to tile a bathroom?

Tile installation costs are a key part of your bathroom remodel costs. The tile you select (which can range from under $2 per square foot to $50 per square foot or more), the demolition and repair work required prior to installation, and the size of the job will all affect cost. You can install tile in the shower, on the counters, on the wall or on the floor. The national average for tile installation cost ranges between $490 and $750. Bathroom tile is easy to clean and durable for daily life. Here are some examples of average bathroom tile installation costs:

Tile installation at $25 per square foot of tiled bathroom area.

A standard tub and shower combo requires tiles for approximately 60 inches of length. Calculate wall height and add 30 to 36 inches of tub width for the walls at the head and foot of the tub. If the tile walls are 6 feet to 8 feet high, in this example, the tile installation costs would run about $2,000. Price includes materials.

Tile installation on a 3-foot by 5-foot regular tub and shower walls with an 8-foot ceiling: $1,450. Price includes materials.
Tile installation on a 3-foot by 5-foot regular tub and shower walls with a 10-foot ceiling: $1,650. Price includes materials.

For more on how to remodel a bathroom and bathroom tiling check out The Complete Thumbtack Bathroom Remodel Guide.

How much does it cost to install a ceramic tile floor?

Tile installation costs for ceramic floors depend on the type of tile you select. You can purchase tile that sells for under $2 per square foot or tile that costs $50 per square foot — or more for artisanal and hand-painted tiles. The cost of labor to install a tile floor will also depend on the tile you select. It is far less labor-intensive to install a white 12-inch by 12-inch square tile than a 2-inch by 2-inch hexagonal tile with a distinct pattern. That extra time and energy equates to a higher per-square-foot installation cost. For example, a flooring pro may charge approximately $3.50 per square foot for labor to install wood-look tile in an area ranging between 6 feet by 24 feet and 8 feet by 48 feet. That same pro may charge $6 or more per square foot for a more intricate pattern, or a smaller space. Some installers may charge a minimum day rate for ceramic tile floor installation, such as $340 minimum per day, to cover business expenses and employee wages. If you’re looking to reduce costs, removing your existing flooring and handling any repairs needed can help eliminate prep work costs. Prep work may be charged per hour and could cost anywhere from $25 to $80 per hour or more, depending on the region and the type of repair work necessary.

How much does it cost to install tiles in a kitchen?

One of the most common kitchen upgrades is installing decorative backsplash tiles in the space between the counters and cabinets. It’s a chance for homeowners to get creative while also protecting the kitchen walls from splashes and stains. Like all tiling projects, kitchen tile project costs depend on the tiles you choose, installation materials such as grout and mortar, and any surface materials, like replacement backer board. The national average for a tiled kitchen backsplash is $490-$750. In general, pricing averages $10-$40 per square foot for installation, not including tile. Some professional tile installers have a minimum day rate for small projects, which averages $350.

Jessica V.

Verified review

Jason and his son did a great job re-grouting the tile in my bathroom and installing ceiling fans in two rooms. Communication and scheduling was easy. He was knowledgeable and his pricing was within my budget. I'd recommend him to anyone! Thank you!!

John C.

My heat was not working properly. I had called 5 contractors before contacting Matt and all said my job was not important enough to squeeze me in anytime soon. Matt drove over an hour and a half getting to my house at 9:30PM to complete this job. I will certainly be hiring him again. Very professional and very knowledgeable! Thank you!

Lydia B.

PROJECT: Remove and install an exterior door. Darin came to my home a few months ago to evaluate a project I listed on Thumbtack. He provided a quote in writing within hours of meeting us. He was one of a few contractors that presented a written contract that detailed the work he proposed. He arrived at each of our three meetings on time. He completed the job tasked efficiently and left the work space clean and clear. His work was excellent!!! My husband and I would hire HBR again...in a heartbeat!

Evelyn W.

If you ever need a contractor Jim is the person. Hired him to take a window guard out and he completed the job in no time with no damage. I’m very satisfied with his service and will be hiring him again.

Max C.

Global Housing Contractors did a beautiful job with our bathroom renovations. We were impressed with their punctuality, reliability, and great care in protecting the rest of our home while work was getting done. Tile work was a bit involved in one of our two bathrooms, but Global Housing contractors took the extra time and care to make sure it was installed to perfection. It is obvious that customer satisfaction and quality of work are their top priority. I would wholeheartedly recommend Global Housing Contractors for all your housing makeover needs!

Pat M.

Paul has completed several home projects for us which included tile installation, kitchen crown molding, electrical and plumbing work, carpentry and painting . We were very satisfied with the results. We would certainly recommend him if you want a job well done.

Eudora J.

As first time home buyers, we had difficulties getting quotes. TNS was the first company to give us a quote and lay out exactly what we were paying for at a fair price. They also did not request any money until they were able to start the job (which I think is a best practice). They kept us informed on the progess of work that wouls be completed each day. Their work is of high quality and they executed on what we were looking for. The team we met were professional and now we can finally enjoy our bathroom without looking at the yellow and green tiles from the 70's! We would definitely recommend TNS.

Matthew M.

Sam at S&K is extremely professional and knowledgeable. He worked with us on a number of modifications and helped minimize overall while doing high quality job. Very happy to work with S&K again

Brian O.

I cannot express enough how great these guys were. They were professional and courteous the whole time and most importantly they did great work. I never felt like my job was a second priority to any others they were doing unlike most contractors I've dealt with and they finished in a timely fashion. I will most definitely use these guys for any future work on my house.

Lisa M.

The job could not have gone more perfect. My contractor cancelled last minute for a job that needed to be done before Christmas as it was a gift. I hired Al over the phone as I was desperate and he came over right away. I was extremely nervous and worried he may try and over charge due to the circumstances and my need for immediate assistance. He had no reviews for me to read and I have had a few bad experiences with contractors in the past. Al was polite, clean, neat and treated my home as if it was his own sweeping and vacuuming as he went along. I was only planning on having him do the hard labor and I was going to finish the rest on my own. Al was a very pleasant find and I will be referring him to anyone I know who needs a contractor. He did not over charge and went above and beyond to help finish the entire job for me.

Imogene H.

Waldy,the contractor, was very professional and punctual. They did a very good job in leveling my floor and tiling it. I am very please with the work that was done. I will definitely recommend them to my family and friends

Jordan M.

We had an excellent experience working with The Contractors Group on the repair of our existing retaining wall and the addition of a brand new patio, built-in grill and sitting wall. They worked hard, showed up every day early and stayed late to finish everything. They added insight on every step of the process, from the materials to the plantings. We could't be happier with the final results- it's even better than we imagined! I would highly recommend The Contractors Group for any of your outdoor work- you're getting a professional and detail-oriented team, who care deeply about making their clients happy!

RENE R.

We had Eagle refinish our hardwood floors and install tile flooring. They did an amazing job. They also did the job lightning fast. Angel and his crew were always available to talk and responsive whenever we tweaked what we wanted done. I highly recommend them and plan on using them again in the future.

Arleen S.

Tom took on an unusual project for us. He used his extensive art background and talent to custom paint and install new outlets and switchplates covers to perfectly match our marble tile kitchen backsplash. The work looks gorgeous, and Tom is a delightful man to deal with. His business includes tile work, masonry, and carpentry. We intend to have him back to take on additional projects in our home.

Ruth H.

Klarens was responsive and pleasant when booking the job. But his partner arrived instead of him to caulk the bathtub and kitchen. He did a sloppy job on the bathtub, leaving cracks and getting caulk on the tile (see photo). He put a huge amount of caulk around the counter in the kitchen. It looked so bad I asked him to remove it. I then exchanged messages with Klarens to have him come fix it, after I’d already paid. He scheduled a time, texted he was late, asked for alternate days, both of which I was available for, and then never followed thru to finish the job. So I am out the cost of the job and have crap around the bathtub and nothing in the kitchen. Disappointed does not express how let down I feel by KI Renovations. Other reviews were good but I recommend you Avoid.

JANICE H.

A few days ago I had a new stove delivered while they delivered it to my kitchen they suddenly said that the connection required a license electrician. Thank God for Thumbtack and Mike. He answered quickly what's Pleasant and efficient with a sense of humor and was here all of 20 minutes. I would recommend his work to anyone who is tired of contractors who take hours to do a simple task or who overcharged I felt that his rate was good and I fully intend to use him again if I have additional electrical needs. He's on the permanent Rolodex

Michelle E.

Deuel is amazing! We own an apartment building and have used him several times in our own space as well as our tenant apartments. He is always very responsive, reliable, and just a pleasure to have work for you. He installed light fixtures, hung ceiling tiles, installed molding, casings and chair rails, as well as ceramic floor and wall tiles. His work is beautiful! Oh and I should mention he probably owns every tool found in your local home depot!

Yasmeen V.

Recently a toilet bowl was replaced and everything was taken care of, including the removal of the toilet and discarding it. The job was done professionally. We also had electrical work done to replace all the outlets and switches with gfi outlets/switches on our second floor because a few lights and outlets were not working. I appreciate that I was consulted with every step of the process and that all the lights are now working in my bathroom. One week later I contacted them when an outlet that was replaced was not working and they promptly returned the next day to disconnect the towel rack heater that was causing the fuse to blow. This fuse had to be disconnected until further work could be done. Ultimately we chose not to investigate the cause of the short to the fuse because the heated towel rack was not needed and we did not want a hole cut in the bathroom wall. Both the electrical job and toilet replacement were done quickly and cleanly. The cost of both jobs was very close to the original estimate. The pricing was fair and affordable. It would have been more costly if we went with another contractor. The response time was quick and I would gladly recommend them for any repair job. 👍

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