A dependable way to update a home’s appearance is to install tile in the showers, backsplashes, and flooring. For kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other rooms, tile is a popular design element.

Porcelain or ceramic tile flooring installation costs typically range from $400 to $800.

To stay within your budget, pick more affordable porcelain tiles with a straightforward pattern and a simple design.

Factors in Calculating Tile Installation Cost

Costs associated with installing tiles are determined by a few variables. Due to the scope of the work, labor costs, required preparation work, the type and rating of the tile, and the location of installation, costs may vary from the $1,959 national average.

Size of the Project

Most professionals will charge based on the square footage of the project area. The larger the area that needs to be tiled, the lower the cost per square foot. Measure the length and multiply it by the width to get the area that will be tiled. For example: 10-foot by 12-foot room = 120 square feet. To account for broken tiles or cuts with odd shapes, it is always beneficial to estimate a little too much.

Labor

Labor can cost from $3 to $15 per square foot. Between $7 and $19 per square foot is the labor cost to install a tile floor; for backsplashes and countertops, the cost is $23 to $35 per square foot. Although most professionals base their labor costs on square footage, some may bill by the hour. In that case, depending on the project, be ready to pay anywhere between $60 and $120 per hour.

Area Preparation

The cost of the project will increase as more preparation work is required before installing tile. Installing tile on a smooth and even surface will take less time and require minimal prep compared to tiling over old and uneven flooring. The cost of the project will go up if walls or countertops need to be repaired or replaced, or if the flooring needs to be taken out and replaced.

Type of Tile

The cost of installation will directly depend on the type of tile. Think about where you want the tile to go, then pick it based on its quality, strength, and recommended application. Certain types of tile are not appropriate for flooring but will work for countertops or backsplashes.

Tile Rating

Tiles have a specific rating system that tells you where they should be installed. The durability ranges from Class I to Class V, with Class V being the highest.

• Class I. Class I tiles are only suitable for use as wall tiles because they lack the strength to be used as flooring.
• Class II. Light-traffic areas, like bathrooms, are where these tiles work best.
• Class III. For countertops, walls, and locations with average foot traffic, Class III tiles can be used.
• Class IV. You can use these tiles anywhere in your house.
• Class V. For commercial or industrial use, Class V tiles are the most reliable option.

The porosity of tiles can also be used to classify them. Porosity refers to how many air pockets the tile has. The degree to which a tile is glass-like (or vitreous) determines its porosity. A tile becomes more absorbent the more porous it is. Areas with little moisture are better suited for tiles with a high absorbance level. The porosity of tiles is divided into four levels.

• Non-vitreous tile. The price of non-vitreous tile per square foot ranges from $1 to $5. Terra cotta and bisqueware are just two types of this absorbent tile. It works best as decorative accents or for wall tiling because it is the most absorbent material.
• Semi-vitreous tile. Semi-vitreous tile is most commonly used in areas outside of the bathroom. Per square foot, the average price ranges from $4 to $8.
• Vitreous tile. Cost per square foot for vitreous tile can range from $4 to $8. Except for shower areas, bathrooms are where it is most frequently used. While the back and sides of vitreous tile are not waterproof, the surface is. Repeated exposure to moisture or direct contact with water over an extended period of time could affect the water resistance.
• Impervious tile. The least absorbent and most glass-like type of tile is impervious. It functions best in environments with a lot of moisture and exposure to water. $5 to $10 per square foot is the price range for these tiles.

Installation Location

Depending on where you put the tile, you’ll pay different installation fees. Kitchen backsplash or countertop tile installation typically costs more than flooring tile. The tile must be nonporous if you’re putting it in a high-moisture area or a place where it will come into direct contact with water. Typically, tiles cost more when they are more vitreous.

Additional Costs and Considerations

There are typically additional cost factors and considerations when setting a budget for tile installation. These can consist of additional components, subfloor installation and repair, and geographical location.

Additional Materials

If your subfloor is made of wood, backer board will need to be installed. Since wood will warp if exposed to excessive moisture, it’s not the ideal base for tile installation. Backer board is frequently used in bathrooms and provides a level, solid cement surface on which to lay the tile. Backer board typically comes with the total cost of labor and can range in price from $5 to $8 per square foot.

Subfloor Repair

Repair costs for an existing subfloor can range from $40 to $65 per square foot. A concrete subfloor that needs to be resurfaced will cost an additional $3 to $10 per square foot. Additional labor hours and materials are needed to level the floor and make sure it’s a smooth surface for the tile installation. The installer must patch any holes or cracks and make sure the subfloor is dry and clean before preparing it for the tile. To prepare the surface for installation, a latex primer must be applied next. Finally, the installer must check that the subflooring is level and, if necessary, use a self-leveling compound.

Conclusion

If you need a high-quality, durable tile flooring option in your home or outdoors, it’s hard to argue with porcelain tiles. They’re moisture-resistant and durable, providing a touch of sophistication for just about any location. To get the best installation possible, hire a local expert tile installer.

FAQs