Thinking of giving your bathroom a new look with some updated tiles? Nice choice. Retiling can totally change the vibe of your bathroom without the full-blown cost of a renovation.
But of course, the big question is – how much is this going to set you back?
If you’re in Melbourne and starting to plan, here’s a no-fuss breakdown of how much it costs to retile a bathroom and what affects the final price.
How Much Does It Cost To Retile A Bathroom?
The cost to retile a bathroom usually falls somewhere between $2,000 and $10,000 in Melbourne, depending on how big the space is and the style choices you go with.
Here’s a rough idea of the typical price ranges:
- Small bathroom (around 5 square metres): $2,000 to $4,000
- Medium bathroom (around 10 square metres): $3,500 to $6,500
- Large bathroom (15 square metres or more): $5,000 to $10,000+
This includes removing the old tiles, prepping the area, installing new tiles, and all the extras like waterproofing and cleanup. Of course, things like fancy tiles or detailed layouts can nudge that number up a bit.
Also Read: Why Does My Bathroom Smell Like Weed?
Factors That Affect The Cost To Retile A Bathroom
Now let’s go over what really influences the price of retiling. Some of these might surprise you, and some might give you ideas on where to save:
#1 Size Of The Area
Let’s start with the obvious: size. The more space you want to tile, the more it’s going to cost.
Bigger area means more tiles, more glue, more grout, and more hours of labour. Even tiling just the floor versus the floor and walls can make a huge difference.
If you’ve got a small ensuite, your costs are going to look very different than a big main bathroom with a walk-in shower and full-height walls.
#2 Type Of Tile
Tiles come in all sorts of materials, and each one has a different price tag.
Basic ceramic tiles are on the lower end and are super popular for good reason – they look great and don’t cost a fortune.
Porcelain is a little more durable and water-resistant, so it’s a step up in price. Then you’ve got things like marble, travertine, or mosaics, which can start getting a bit fancy (and pricey).
Here’s a quick look at typical tile costs:
- Ceramic: $20–$40 per m²
- Porcelain: $40–$70 per m²
- Natural stone or specialty tiles: $80–$150+ per m²
If you’re on a tighter budget, go with ceramic tiles. Want something that’ll make a statement? Natural stone can really elevate the space, but your wallet will feel it.
Also Read: How Long Does A Bathroom Renovation Take?
#3 Tile Size And Pattern
The size of the tiles and how they’re laid plays a bigger role than most people expect.
Larger tiles (think 600x600mm or bigger) are often quicker to lay and need less grout, which can help save on labour. But if you go for smaller tiles or intricate patterns like herringbone, chevron, or mosaics, the job takes longer and usually costs more.
Detailed patterns are awesome for style but expect to pay more for the extra labour involved.
Straightforward grid layouts? Easier, faster, and usually cheaper.
#4 Labour Rates
Labour is a big part of the overall cost, and in Melbourne, it can vary a bit based on experience and demand.
On average, tilers charge between $45 and $100 per square metre.
Higher-end tilers or those working on detailed jobs might be on the pricier side, but they’re often worth it if you want a polished finish.
Also, if your job’s a little tricky like for example it has tight corners, weird layouts, or hard-to-access spots, it might take longer and bump up the cost a little.
#5 Removing Old Tiles And Surface Prep
Before you can lay new tiles, the old ones have to come off.
That process isn’t always quick or clean. If the old tiles are stuck down solid or there’s damage underneath, removing them and preparing the surface can take time, and time equals money.
Once the old tiles are up, the surface needs to be checked and leveled. Any uneven spots, holes, or cracks need fixing before the new tiles go on.
Sometimes this is simple. Sometimes it turns into a bit of a surprise project.
Also Check Out Our: Bathroom Renovation Services In St Kilda
#6 Waterproofing
This is a must in every bathroom and it’s legally required in Australia.
Waterproofing stops leaks, mould, and water damage, so don’t skip it. It’s usually done before tiling starts, especially in the shower area and any wet zones.
Cost-wise, waterproofing usually adds about $500 to $1,000 to the total bill.
It depends on how much of the space needs coverage and what products are used.
#7 Disposal Of Waste
Once everything’s done, there’s usually a pile of broken tiles, glue, grout dust, and maybe even old waterproofing membranes. Someone’s gotta clean it up. Some tilers include waste disposal in their quotes, others might charge extra for it.
It’s not a massive cost, but it’s one of those little things that can catch you off guard.
If it’s not listed in the quote, best to ask.
Wrapping Up
Retiling a bathroom can cost anything from $2,000 on the low end to over $10,000 in Melbourne.
Here are some of our favorite tips to help with the budget:
- Keep the layout simple
- Stick to standard-size ceramic or porcelain tiles
- Get a few quotes and ask what’s included
Retiling is one of those updates that really pays off in style and function. It doesn’t just look good, but also makes your bathroom feel cleaner, fresher, and more “you.”
Got a tile combo in mind or just tossing around ideas? Start there, and the rest will fall into place.