Thinking about giving your bathroom a fresh new look? One of the biggest pieces of the puzzle is tiling — and naturally, you’re probably wondering, “How much will it cost me to tile my bathroom in Melbourne?” Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or a simple upgrade, understanding tiling costs upfront will help you budget smart and avoid unwanted surprises. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from material choices to labour costs and practical tips to save money — all explained in a simple, friendly way.
Use our easy bathroom tiling calculator to get an approximate cost for your project in Melbourne. Whether you’re planning a small bathroom upgrade or a full renovation, this tool gives you a quick starting point.
Bathroom Tiling Cost Calculator
Why Tiling Matters More Than You Think
Bathroom tiles do more than make a space look good. They protect your home from water damage, add value, and set the tone for your entire bathroom vibe. Choosing the right tiles and getting them professionally installed is crucial if you want your bathroom to be both beautiful and built to last.
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Key Factors That Affect Bathroom Tiling Costs in Melbourne
Several important factors play a role in how much you’ll end up spending.
1. Type of Tiles
- Ceramic Tiles: Affordable and easy to install. Prices start around $20–$50 per m².
- Porcelain Tiles: Stronger and more water-resistant. Costs range from $40–$100 per m².
- Natural Stone Tiles: Luxurious but pricey, usually between $80–$200+ per m².
Different tiles also vary in size, thickness, and finish, all of which can impact both material and installation costs.
Tip: Porcelain tiles are often the sweet spot for Melbourne homes — they offer great value and durability.
2. Bathroom Size and Layout
- Small bathrooms (under 5m²): Quicker and cheaper to tile.
- Medium bathrooms (5–10m²): Most common size; expect mid-range costs.
- Large bathrooms (10m²+): More tiles, more labour, higher costs.
Odd shapes, lots of niches, or multiple levels (like steps into a bath) also add to the labour time.
3. Labour Costs
Professional tilers in Melbourne typically charge:
- $45–$75 per m² for straightforward jobs.
- $75–$150 per m² for complex patterns (e.g., herringbone, mosaic, custom inlays).
Labour costs often include surface preparation, adhesive, grout, and clean-up — but always double-check your quote!
4. Surface Preparation and Waterproofing
Before any tiles go down, your walls and floors need to be waterproof and level. Waterproofing for bathrooms typically costs $500–$750.
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Skipping proper prep work is asking for trouble later (think leaks and cracked tiles), so it’s a must-have.
Real-World Cost Breakdown: Standard Melbourne Bathroom
Here's an estimate for a 6m² bathroom with mid-range porcelain tiles:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tiles (mid-range porcelain) | $360–$600 |
| Labour | $500–$900 |
| Waterproofing | $500–$750 |
| Adhesive, grout, sundries | $150–$250 |
Total Estimated Cost: $1,510–$2,500
Important: Costs can go up for luxury tiles, detailed patterns, or additional preparation work.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Tile wastage: Always order 10–15% more tiles for cuts and future repairs.
- Old tile removal: Adds around $20–$40 per m².
- Structural repairs: If moisture damage or uneven floors are found.
- Underfloor heating installation: Adds significant labour and material costs.
How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
- Use larger tiles: They cover more area with fewer grout lines, reducing labour time.
- Stick to simple layouts: Straight or stack patterns are cheaper to install.
- Choose mid-range materials: Affordable, durable, and stylish.
- Bundle services: Some tilers offer discounts if you combine waterproofing and tiling.
- Plan ahead: Avoid rushed decisions that lead to costly changes mid-project.
Example: One of our clients in Glen Waverley saved over $800 by choosing large-format porcelain tiles with a simple horizontal layout instead of intricate mosaics.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the cheapest tiler: Low quotes often cut corners.
- Neglecting waterproofing: Repairs are far more expensive than doing it right the first time.
- Not factoring in extras: Always ask for a full, itemized quote.
- Picking high-maintenance tiles: Natural stones look great but need regular sealing.
FAQs About Bathroom Tiling Costs
How much does it cost to tile a small bathroom in Melbourne?
Expect around $2,000–$3,500, depending on materials and complexity.
Can I supply my own tiles?
Yes! Many tilers are happy for you to supply your tiles — but check if there are any size or quality issues first.
Is waterproofing included in tiling quotes?
Sometimes. Always confirm if waterproofing is separate or bundled into your quote.
Can retiling a bathroom increase property value?
Absolutely! A modern, well-tiled bathroom can add serious appeal and resale value.
How long does bathroom tiling usually take?
Typically 3–5 days, depending on size and complexity.
Final Thoughts: Budget Smart, Build Better
Bathroom tiling might seem like just another step in your renovation — but it’s one of the most important ones for function, style, and value. Investing in quality tiles, skilled workmanship, and proper waterproofing ensures your bathroom looks stunning and stays trouble-free for years to come.
At Chumz Tiling, we make the process easy and transparent — from first quote to final tile.
Ready to tile your dream bathroom? Get a free quote today!
