From bathrooms to outdoor areas and everything in between, tiling can be a time-consuming and complex job. So if you aren’t interested in a DIY project or simply don’t have the time to take care of it yourself, then you’ll need to find an experienced tiler. Here’s the most important information you need to know about hiring a local tiler.

What does a professional tiler do?

Tiles are becoming increasingly popular and can be used in almost any area of the home. Traditionally, tiles have been used in laundries, bathrooms and kitchens, but they can also be used around the swimming pool, for paving, in outdoor areas and as flooring, in garages, on roofs and even on walls.

Whether you’re looking to build new, renovate or repair your home, tilers can help your tiling project to run much more smoothly. Here are just some of the tasks a tiler can take care of for you:

• Measuring area to be tiled
• Laying out tiles
• Preparation of surfaces
• Laying tiles using the correct adhesives
• Cutting tiles using specialised tools
• Ensuring tiles are correctly spaced and levelled
• Preparing, applying or removing excess grout (see tile and grout cleaning)
• Tile resurfacing
• Tile removal
• Cleaning and polishing tiles
• Applying waterproofing to necessary areas

What are the most common reasons for hiring a tiler?

Home renovations

Tiles are a popular choice for updating the look of a home, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and outdoor areas. Tilers can provide expert advice on the best tile types, designs and colours to use based on the style and needs of the home. They can also help homeowners choose tiles that are practical, easy to clean and long-lasting.

New builds

Tilers are also frequently hired for new builds, whether it’s a new home or commercial building. They work closely with builders, architects, designers and the property owner to ensure the tiles are installed professionally and meet the required standards.

Repairs and maintenance

Another reason to hire a tiler is for repair and maintenance work. Over time, tiles will inevitably become cracked, chipped or discoloured, which can affect the appearance of the entire space. Tilers will be able to repair or replace these tiles as needed, making the space look as good as new. Regular maintenance can also help extend the life of the tiles and prevent further damage.

Waterproofing

Tilers can provide waterproofing services, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Waterproofing is essential to prevent water damage and mould growth, and tilers can install waterproof membranes and sealants to ensure the area is properly protected. Tilers can also advise you about the best waterproofing products to suit your specific needs.

Outdoor areas

Whether it’s a patio, deck and pool area, outdoor tiles need to be durable and able to withstand the elements. Tilers can advise you on the best type of tiles for the specific outdoor environment. They can also help you choose tiles that are slip-resistant for overall peace of mind.

Commercial projects

Tilers are often hired for commercial projects like shopping centres, hospitals, schools and government buildings. Commercial projects require larger teams of tilers and more complex planning, so these tilers must have plenty of experience in working on large-scale projects.

What types of projects do tilers usually work on?

Tilers work on both residential and commercial projects, and their expertise is often required for specific areas of a property. Some of the most common projects that tilers usually work on include:

• Bathrooms: Tilers are often hired to tile bathroom walls, floors, splashbacks and shower areas. They can advise you about the best tiles to use for these areas, taking into consideration moisture resistance, durability and slippage.
• Laundries: Your tiler can help you create a functional and attractive space that is easy to clean and maintain.
• Kitchens: From kitchen splashbacks to kitchen floors and walls, creating a stylish and practical space is easy with a professional tiler. They can advise you about easy-to-clean surfaces or tiles that can withstand heavy foot traffic.
• Swimming pools: Tilers can ring-fence swimming pools with hard-wearing tiles to create a durable and slip-resistant surface. They can also install tiles inside the pool itself (before it’s filled with water!) and advise you on the right tiles to use based on things like chlorine or saltwater.
• Roofs: Tilers can work on roof tiling, which is often used for both residential and commercial properties. They will work to create a durable, weather-resistant surface that is also aesthetically pleasing.
• Outdoor gardens: Tiles are commonly used for garden paths, patios and decking. Your preferred tiler will be able to help you choose the right tile to elevate your outdoor area.

How much does it cost to hire a professional tiler?

Some tilers charge by the hour or will give you a quote for the full job. On average, tilers can charge anywhere from $45 to $150 per hour – so make sure you get quotes from a few different prospects.

However, you are more likely to be quoted a per-square-metre rate. According to NHK Tiling, the average ranges from $35 to $120 per square metre.

Be aware that these figures don’t include the price of the tiles themselves – you will need to budget for them separately, or get your tiler to include the price of the tile purchase included in the quote.

What to ask when hiring a local roofer

A good standard list of questions to ask before hiring a tiler includes:

• Are you licensed, registered and insured?
• Can you provide a written quote?
• What other work do you have on at the moment?
• Can I see previous examples of your work?
• Who is supervising the work?
• How much do you require for the deposit?
• When do you need progress payments?
• How long will the job take?
• When can you start?
• Who will clean up the site once the work is finished?

Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.