Demolition and removal of old tiles and tub surround
Unless you're starting with a brand-new, just-drywalled bathroom, your pro will need to do some tile removal before you can start installation. This is the case for most homeowners undergoing a bathroom remodel and re-tiling an existing space. The demolition will involve:
Removing the existing tile from walls, ceiling and floors with a utility knife, or by hammering a putty knife around the grout lines.
Pulling down your acrylic or fiberglass tub surround (a surround is a surface material that protects the area just above your tub).
If you plan to keep your current tub, or want to replace it and sell the old one, your pro should lay down a protective sheet to make sure none of the broken tiles fall and chip or damage your bathtub. After all, you don't want to add "get new tub liner" to your list of remodeling projects.
If your home is older, there may be additional complications. While most contractors factor this into the per-square-foot price, you may wind up paying extra if it ends up taking longer, and they need to account for additional labor costs.
Preparing the surface of your walls, ceiling and floors
You can't just stick tiles on drywall and hope for the best. (Sorry!) Installing new tile in a bathroom is a little more complicated than that.
To prepare the surface of your walls, ceiling and floors, your tile contractors will need to install a backer board (made of cement), waterproofing and a membrane to prevent cracks. If the areas to be tiled are smooth and even, it will cost less for the installation job. An older, crooked home may pose complications and increase your cost. The cost of these materials:
Cement backer board: $10 per board
If wall tile must be installed adjacent to the floor, such as when there is a tiled lip on a step-in shower, most contractors will want to make sure the surrounding floor is in good condition. Repairs and surface preparation will add to the time and labor costs.
Installing tiling and a new tub (or just getting a bathtub refinishing) at the same time might be a good money- and time-saver. Additional materials, like grout and mortar
New tiles aren't the only materials you'll need to account for in your overall budget. Once your tiles are installed, you'll need to regrout your shower. To complete this step, you'll need to buy thinset mortar and grout. Grout comes in a number of different colors, and different tile sizes will need different amounts of grout — which could increase your costs.
If you want to install an inset (also called a niche), a built-in soap holder, or any other additional feature, expect your tile job to cost more. Add-ons will increase the price.
Tips for hiring a professional installer
Make sure your contractor is licensed. Any contractor or subcontractor who works on your house should be bonded, licensed, and insured properly according to state and local standards. Insurance can help protect you if your home gets damaged during construction or workers are hurt on site. Hiring a bonded contractor can help protect you if the contractor fails to pay workers, doesn't pay for permits, or doesn't finish the work.
Ask if your contractor is willing to pull a permit. Granted, not all towns and municipalities require a permit for tiling jobs, but if yours does, you'll want to make sure things are done properly. Otherwise, you may end up in trouble when you try to sell.
Ask about packages. If you're remodeling your entire bathroom, you can also ask about packages. Some contractors may be able to complete multiple jobs, like tiling, refinishing bathtubs or updating plumbing at the same time and for a lower rate.