In recent years, tile has become very popular in home-design applications from flooring to walls. It has always been best suited for bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms, and other areas that may encounter moisture because it is durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. But today, practically any room can get a tile makeover.
So how much does it cost to install tile? Many factors influence the tile installation cost from the type of tile you choose to the pattern you want to set them in and from the size of the area you are planning to install them to the contractor who will do the job.
Tile Installation Cost per Square Foot
Tile installation costs per square foot are in the range of $13.50 to $63 indoors. If you want to install tile outdoors, be ready to pay $14 to $83 per square foot. Materials and labor make up most of the expenses.
| Item |
Per Square Foot |
| Tile |
$0.50 - $15 indoor; $1 - $35 outdoor |
| Labor |
$4 - $32 |
| Other Materials |
$6 - $9 |
| Removal of Old Surface |
$2 |
| Preparing Area |
$1 - $5 |
| Total |
$13.50 - $63 indoor; $14 - $83 outdoor |
As you'll see below, the type of tile you choose will play a big role in your total tile installation costs. Tiles come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. The cost can vary widely, depending on what you choose. Some tiles are very inexpensive, while others can cost a small fortune. If you are planning a home remodeling project, we have a huge selection of tiles at affordable prices.
| Tile Cost per Square Foot |
|
|
| Type of Tile |
Tile Cost |
Labor Cost |
Total Cost |
| Ceramic |
$2 |
$5 – $12 |
$7 – $14 |
| Encaustic Cement |
$2 |
$5 – $12 |
$7 – $14 |
| Slate |
$3 |
$5 – $12 |
$8 – $15 |
| Quartzite |
$5 |
$6 – $13 |
$11 – $18 |
| Porcelain |
$6 |
$6 – $13 |
$12 – $19 |
| Travertine |
$6 |
$7 – $14 |
$13 – $20 |
| Natural stone |
$6 |
$7 – $14 |
$13 – $20 |
| Marble |
$8 |
$7 – $14 |
$15 – $24 |
Also, prices will vary drastically depending on whether you're installing a floor, backsplash, shower walls, or countertops.
Cost to Tile a Shower
The average cost to tile a shower varies greatly because there are endless shower tile options, and your shower size also greatly affects the total costs. Still, the average cost to tile a shower ranges from $7 to $25 per square foot, depending on the grade of material that is used. The price can be about $2,000 for a medium-size shower.
Costs of other tile installation materials include:
- Cement Backer Board: $10 per sheet;
- Adhesive: $50;
- Regard Waterproofing & Crack Prevention Membrane: $50;
- Thinset & Grout: $50;
- Trim & Bullnose Cap & Edge Tiles: $150 to $200.
Backsplash Installation Cost
The backsplash installation cost will range from $23 to $35 per square foot, depending on the materials you select. The average cost for installing a backsplash in your kitchen is about $1,000. But you can pay as little as $600 or as much as $1,350.
Your price will depend on such factors as the amount of backsplash tile needed, finish type, complexity of the chosen pattern, and the difficulty level. Tile installation for large areas goes smoothly and fast. But if the installer has to work in tighter spaces, or the area has a window, door, electrical socket or plumbing, be ready to pay an extra charge for these more difficult places.
The average labor cost to install a backsplash is $40 to $60 per hour. But if you like more detailed designs, for example, want to install tiles using a herringbone pattern, it requires additional cutting and is more challenging, so it will cost more.
How Much Does It Cost to Tile a Floor?
Tile is the preferred choice for many floors in your home because of its durability and low maintenance. But there is no single answer to the question, "How much does it cost to tile a floor?" The cost can vary depending on the type of tile, the layout of the room, and uniqueness of the look. The price can also vary based on local labor rates.
Tile flooring costs per square foot range from $7 to $24 and most homeowners spend $10 to $15 per square foot. Ceramic floors are the cheapest option and will cost of $10 per square foot, while marble floors will be $20 per square foot or more.
Ceramic Tile Installation Cost
Ceramic tile is one of the lowest-priced options on the market. It comes in many varieties, sizes, and shades and is a popular option for floors and walls. The prices may range from $0.50/sf to $15/sf. The least expensive ceramic tile is available in small sizes, and more expensive tiles of larger sizes offer a distinctive and individual look.
The labor for installation will cost around $5 per square foot and could be the largest expense included in ceramic tile installation costs. So if you'd like to save on tile installation cost, DIYing it might be a tempting option, although it requires good preparation and some specialty tools.
