What Is the Average Cost to Tile a Shower or Bathroom?

Nothing beats the feeling of stepping into a beautifully tiled shower oasis each morning. If you’ve been dreaming of upgrading your bathroom with new tiles or revamping the entire space, you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to cost, what the process is like, how to choose between different shower tiling, and so much more.

Installing new tiles in your shower can transform your bathroom’s look and feel. From sleek natural stones to trendy subway tiles, there’s an endless array of options to choose from. But what’s the average cost to tile a shower, and how much will your project set you back?

The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your shower, the type of tiles you choose, and labor costs. According to Angi, the average is about $900, with other sources like Bob Vila breaking that number down further, stating it costs, on average, about $25 per square foot to tile a shower.

However, because that cost can vary greatly, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of tile shower installation costs so you can make an informed decision about your next bathroom renovation project.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Tiling a Shower

Ask anybody who’s ever managed a bathroom renovation and they’ll tell you that when tiling a shower, the cost is, unfortunately, not one-size-fits-all. Several factors can affect how much you’ll pay for the job. Below, we’ll break down the variables impacting the final cost.

Type of Tiles

One of the biggest factors influencing the average cost to tile a shower is the type of tiles you choose.

Ceramic tiles tend to be the most affordable, with prices ranging from $0.50 to $15 per square foot. Porcelain tiles are a bit more expensive, and natural stone tiles, such as marble or granite, are even more costly, ranging from $7 to $30 per square foot. Statistics also show ceramic and glass are the most expensive, at least $100 per square foot.

Keep in mind that the cost of the tiles themselves is only one part of the equation. The tile patterns and finish you choose will also need to be factored in, with the former increasing labor costs and the finish increasing the cost of materials.

For example, glossy and matte tile finishes are among the cheapest, ranging from $1.25 to $50 per square foot for glossy and $3 to $50 for matte. Rustic finishes are also somewhat budget-friendly.

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Shower Size

Another factor that can impact the cost of tiling a shower is the size of the shower itself. Obviously, the larger the shower, the more tiles will be required and the more it will cost to install them.

On average, a small shower measuring around 36 inches by 36 inches (or nine square feet) will require just under 40 6-by-6-inch tiles for the walls. A larger walk-in shower measuring 48 inches by 48 inches could require significantly more tiles, especially if you choose smaller tiles in 1-inch or 4-inch squares.

It’s also important to remember that larger showers may require more labor, making the installation process more time-consuming – another factor that could drive the cost. If you decide to tile the floors or other areas of your bathroom as part of your shower renovation, you can expect the cost of labor and materials to increase.

Design Complexity

If you’re looking to add a little extra pizzazz to your shower and want a professional shower tile installer to help create an intricate or unique design, you’ll need to be prepared to pay a little more.

Intricate tile designs, such as mosaics, can be time-consuming to install, so labor costs can quickly add up. Additionally, if you’re looking to install tiles in unusual shapes or sizes, you may need to invest in custom tiles, which can be more expensive than standard options.

Shower Condition

Finally, the existing condition of your shower can also impact the cost of tiling. If the shower is in good condition and requires no repairs, installation costs may be lower than if underlying issues need to be addressed. However, the cost will be significantly higher if the shower needs to be completely re-tiled due to water damage or mold.

Average Cost of Materials

To reiterate, when tiling a shower, there are two main costs you’ll want to consider: the cost of materials and the cost of labor.

While the cost of labor depends on the contractor and their fees, the cost of materials is more straightforward and something you can research beforehand. This means you can reduce your budget significantly by being smart about what kind of tiles you buy and from where.

To provide some perspective, here’s a quick breakdown of the average cost of materials needed for shower tiling, including the cost of shower tiles and additional materials.

Average Cost of Shower Tiling

The cost of shower tiles can vary depending on the quality and size of the tiles you choose. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $0.50 to $50 per square foot for shower tiles (without installation).

That average increases per square foot if you include installation costs (for example, the average cost of marble tiles is about $18 and $65 per square foot installed.

Ceramic tiles with glossy or matte finishes are among the cheapest shower tiles, while other types of tiles, like marble, granite, or glass, can quickly exceed that maximum range.

As mentioned above, this cost can also be affected by any intricate finishes you decide to add or designs and colors that fall outside the standard shower tile selection. Generally speaking, the more you customize a brand’s standard shower tiles, the more costly they’ll be.

Additional Materials Required

In addition to the tiles themselves, additional materials are required to tile a shower. If you’re engaging in a DIY shower renovation (which we don’t necessarily recommend, but more on that in just a bit), you’ll be responsible for gathering and paying for all these materials.

These may include cement board, tile adhesive, grout, spacers, and sealant. These materials can range from $1.50 to $5 per square foot, depending on your chosen quality and brand (although those prices can vary immensely depending on your location in the country). For a basic 32-square-foot shower, this would bring the additional material cost to roughly $50 to $160.

Average Cost of Average-Sized Shower

According to Angi and Bob Vila, the current average cost to tile a shower is about $900, with the full cost range being $225 to $1,920.

According to HomeAdvisor, the average-sized shower is about 9 square feet, requiring about 40 6-by-6-inch tiles for the walls or hundreds if you choose smaller 1-by-inch tiles for a more intricate design.

Assuming an average cost of, let’s say, $25 per square foot for mid-level tiles, the cost of just the shower tiles alone could reach over $200. When adding additional materials, such as cement board and adhesive, the total cost of materials needed for an average-sized shower can range from $400 to $600.

Labor Costs

While the cost of the tile itself can vary, it’s important not to overlook the labor costs involved in a tiling project. After all, even the highest quality tiles won’t look their best if they’re not installed properly.

So, how much can you expect to pay for labor when tiling your shower? Let’s take a closer look.

Average Hourly Rates for Professional Tile Installers

Some contractors charge hourly, while others charge per square foot installed. The average rate for professional tile installers is $30 to $120 per hour or $3 to $15 per square foot. However, keep in mind that rates can vary based on your location and the experience level of the contractor you hire.

In addition to hourly rates, some contractors charge a flat fee for the entire project. This can be a good option if you have a larger project or prefer to know exactly how much you’ll pay upfront. Regardless, clarifying

these prices at the beginning of a project is important so you understand what to expect.

How Labor Costs Are Calculated

When calculating labor costs for a tiling project, contractors consider several factors. Here are a few key points to keep in mind.

Type of Tile

As mentioned earlier, some types of tile are more difficult to install than others. For example, installing large format tiles can be more time-consuming than installing smaller tiles. If you plan on using a more complex

tile pattern, this can also increase labor costs.

Prep Work

Before installing the tile, the shower walls or floor must be prepped and leveled. This can involve removing old tiles or making repairs to any damaged areas. The amount of prep work required will impact the overall labor costs.

Sealing

If the tile material requires sealing, this can add to the project timeline and, therefore, the cost. Be sure to discuss this with your contractor ahead of time to ensure there are no surprises.

Additional Expenses for Bathroom Tiling Cost

Ready to renovate your bathroom with some stunning new shower tiles? You’re almost ready, but there are other things to consider. Before you start, it’s essential to understand what additional expenses you might

incur beyond just the cost of the tiles themselves.

Removal of existing tiles

If you’re replacing old tiles, you’ll need to remove them first, and the cost of tile removal will depend on the size of your shower and the complexity of the job. You can expect to pay between $1.50 to $4.50 per square foot for tile removal. If your existing tiles are in bad condition, you may also need to repair the underlying substrate, adding to the total shower tiling cost.

Waterproofing and Substrate Preparation

Proper waterproofing is crucial for a long-lasting shower tile installation. So, you’ll likely need to install a waterproofing membrane, like a sheet or liquid membrane, which will add to the cost.

Additionally, if your substrate isn’t level or in good condition, you’ll need to prepare it before tiling. This process could involve sanding, grinding, or replacing the substrate entirely.

The cost of substrate preparation will depend on the extent of the damage and the size of your shower while waterproofing usually adds about $1 per square foot.

Grouting and Sealing

Lastly, you’ll need to consider the cost of grouting and sealing your new shower tiles.

Grout fills the gaps between tiles and comes in various colors and types. Choosing a high-quality grout that won’t crack or stain easily is essential. The cost of grouting will typically be around $1.50 to $3 per square foot.

Sealing is another critical step in protecting your shower tiles from water damage, mold, and mildew. A high-quality sealant will help keep your tiles looking new for years. The cost of sealing will depend on the size and complexity of your shower.

Heated Floor Installation

Fancy stepping out of a warm shower onto a toasty bathroom floor? If so, it’s worth considering adding a heated floor to your bathroom tiling project.

While it might seem unnecessary, the comfort and luxury it provides make it a popular choice for homeowners. That being said, there is no denying that it can significantly increase your overall expenses.

On average, one can expect to spend between $1,700 and $6,000 to install this feature in their bathroom. This cost depends on the size of the area to be heated and the complexity of the installation. If you decide to extend the heated flooring to your shower area, you can expect the cost to increase.

Our top tip here? It’s always best to call in the pros to ensure the job is done correctly and to code.

Mold Issues

While you may not always see mold in your bathroom, it can be present and cost you big time. A mold inspection will set you back anywhere between $300 and $1,000, but protecting your home and health is worth it.

During an inspection, a professional will visually inspect the area and take swabs of areas that may contain mold. They’ll also check your HVAC system to assess the risk.

If a mold test is deemed necessary, you’re looking at an additional cost of $250 to $500. This price will vary depending on whether or not the inspector sends samples to a lab or uses their own tools.

But here’s the kicker: If mold is identified and must be removed, professional mold remediation can cost anywhere from $1,100 to $3,300.

Average Cost to Tile a Shower

Now, let’s summarize what we’ve learned.

The current estimated average cost to tile a shower is about $900, but this can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of your shower and the type of tiles you choose. The range can be as low as $225 for a basic tile and up to $1,920 for high-end tiles.

However, for an average-sized shower (about 9 square feet), the cost can be estimated at around $400 to $600 for materials alone.

When it comes to your tile options, you can choose from a variety of sizes and materials. For an average- sized shower, you’ll need about 40 6-by-6-inch tiles for the walls, but if you opt for smaller 1-by-1-inch tiles in a more intricate design, you might need hundreds of tiles.

Assuming an average cost of $25 per square foot for mid-level tiles, the cost of just the shower tiles alone could reach over $200.

But the cost of materials doesn’t stop there. You’ll also need to purchase cement board to waterproof the shower walls and adhesive to secure the tiles. Depending on the complexity of your shower design, additional factors that can increase the total cost include the need for specialized tools, such as tile cutters, and the cost of labor if you hire a professional.

Overall, the cost of tiling a shower can vary widely depending on various factors. That’s why getting quotes from different providers and comparing your options is always best.

Tips for Saving Money on Shower Tiling Projects

Between choosing the right tiles, finding a reliable contractor, and worrying about the costs, tiling and renovating a shower is enough to make anyonefeel overwhelmed. However, with some planning, you can save money without sacrificing quality. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Hire a Professional

One of the best ways to save money on a shower tiling project is to hire a professional tile installer. DIY might seem like the cheaper option, but if you’re not experienced in tiling, you could end up making costly mistakes.

A professional installer will have the expertise and experience necessary to get the job done efficiently, preventing any potential mishaps and avoiding costly rework down the line.

Plan Ahead

Another tip for saving money is to plan ahead and do your research. This can help you find the right materials at an affordable price and avoid other unexpected costs.

Start by setting a budget, then look for tiles and installation services that fit within that budget. Purchase your materials in advance, as prices may fluctuate throughout the year. Finally, take the time to get multiple quotes from different contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price.

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Consider Your Grout Options

While many homeowners may overlook grout as an afterthought, it’s an important part of your shower tiling project. Choosing a water-resistant, high-quality grout will help your tiles last longer and avoid damage from water and mildew. Wherever you can look for quality, as this will ultimately reduce the long-term costs of renovating and maintaining your shower.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional

As you can see, the average cost of tiling a shower can add up quickly withoutmishaps. If you’re considering going the DIY route and renovating your shower alone, those costs can easily increase due to costly errors or larger damage.

While it may seem like doing a shower remodel yourself can save you money, it’s important to consider the risks and disadvantages. Usually, it’s best to work with a professional. Here’s why.

Quality Workmanship

Professional tile installers have years of experience and training, which means they know the best techniques and products for your needs. They also have access to high-quality materials and tools that may not be

available to the average person. This ensures your shower renovation is beautiful but also long-lasting and durable.

Expertise

Professional tile installers have a deep understanding of the entire tiling process, from selecting tiles to grouting and sealing. They can also advise you on the best designs and styles for your bathroom, taking into account factors such as the space available, lighting, and color schemes.

Efficient Execution

Time is money, and hiring a professional can save you both when renovating your shower. Professional tile installers have the necessary skills and tools to complete the project promptly and efficiently. They also have a team of professionals who can assist with the installation, ensuring the project is completed quickly and to the highest standards.

Warranty & Guarantees

Finally, one of the most significant benefits of hiring a professional is the warranty and guarantees they offer.

Professional tile installers stand behind their work, offering warranties and guarantees for the materials and labor. This gives you peace of mind that you have the support and assistance you need to resolve the issue if anything goes wrong.

How to Find a Professional Shower Tile Installer

So, you’ve decided to tile your shower and let a professional take care of everything. Now, you might

wonder, “How do I find a professional to install my shower tiles?” While you can search for one right here at Alpha Living, you’ll want to consider a few things as you search for the right professional.

First, ensure you’re hiring a licensed and insured professional. This protects both you and the contractor in case of any accidents or mishaps during the installation process.

Then, do your research to check the reviews and ratings of potential contractors. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and examples of their past work. This will give you a better idea of their skill level and expertise.

Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true when it comes to cost. Cheap options may cost you more in the long run if the quality of the installation isn’t up to par.

Start Your Search

The best way to determine the average cost to tile a shower is to get quotes from various providers. At Alpha Living, we connect homeowners with contractors who can assist with their needs.

We work with certified bathroom and shower professionals who can help you complete your project. Find a local bathroom remodeling professional now!