How Much Does It Cost to Tile a Floor?

Floor Tiling Costs at a Glance

• Total cost: $7,250 to $10,500 for 500 square feet
• Cost per square foot: 50 cents-$7
• Tile removal: $1,500, average; $1,000-$2,000, range
• Average labor costs: $14 per square foot

Tile flooring is a popular option for flooring because of its good looks and durability. While some homeowners choose to do the installation themselves, it can be challenging to do it properly without experience.

Take a look at the costs of having tile flooring professionally installed to determine if it fits your renovation budget.

The average cost to install ceramic tile ranges from $7,250 to $10,500 for a 500-square-foot floor. You can expect to pay between 50 cents and $7 per square foot for the tile itself, depending on the type of tile you choose.

What's the Price Difference Between Various Types of Tiles?

Ceramic tile is a popular option due to its durability, moderate price and versatility in design options. However, you have other tile options that can influence the cost of the project. Natural tile is typically the most expensive option for tile flooring. You can also get vinyl tile that looks like stone as a cheaper option. Some examples of pricing for a 500-square-foot room based on tile type include:

• Vinyl: $6,250 to $7,000
• Porcelain: $8,500 to $12,000
• Slate: $12,500 to $17,500

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What Are Some Other Factors That Impact the Overall Cost?

Several factors play into the total tile floor cost for your project. Those factors include:

Room Size

The area of the floor where you're tiling has a major impact on price. A large floor area requires more tile and other materials, and the installation takes longer in a large room.

Existing Flooring

If you're having your flooring contractor remove the old flooring, the type of existing flooring can affect the price. Removing old tile flooring can be more time-consuming than other flooring materials, for example, which increases labor costs.

Subfloor Condition

You might also have additional expenses related to your subfloor. If the current subfloor is in good condition and can support the tiles, the overall project will be cheaper. If the subfloor needs to be replaced or needs additional support, you'll pay more.

Room Layout

Cutting tile to fit the space is time-consuming. If you have an oddly shaped room or one with lots of features in the floor, you might pay a little more in labor for the extra time of cutting all the tiles.

Tile Layout

Complicated tile patterns and mosaics can take a lot longer to install than simple offset or grid styles. They also require more cuts to the tiles. This added labor increases your costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Tile Floor?

According to data from Porch, removing a tile floor costs about $1,500 on average if you have it done by a professional. The typical range is between about $1,000 and $2,000 for the tile floor removal. The size of the room is one of the major factors in how much the tile removal will cost. The type of tile and anything that makes the project more difficult can also increase the cost.

How Much Does Labor Cost for Installation?

For most types of tile, labor costs average about $14 per square foot. Vinyl tile is usually a little cheaper — typically around $10 per square foot for installation. Some specialty tiles, such as slate, cost more to install due to the difficulty of the installation. Slate generally costs around $20 per square foot for installation.

Tips for Saving Money on Tile Flooring

If you have your heart set on tile, but you also have a limited budget, try these tips for lowering costs:

Plan Ahead

Decide which rooms you plan to tile and what type of tile you want to use. Measure the floor area, so you can get accurate estimates of the cost based on different tile choices. Anticipate potential issues, such as removing the old flooring or replacing the subflooring, so you can get an accurate estimate while you plan.

Remove the Old Flooring Yourself

If you feel comfortable removing the old flooring, tackle this part of the project yourself. This can save you several hundred dollars or more, depending on the size of the room and the type of flooring.

Choose Cheaper Tile

Tile selection is a major factor in the total cost. Natural stone costs more than ceramic tile, but even within each category, you have a wide range of prices. Stick with the lower-priced tiles to save significantly on the project. Look for discounted or clearance tiles for additional savings. This is a cost-effective way to get a higher-end tile on a budget.

Pick a Simple Layout

You can choose a variety of tile layout patterns, including herringbone and basketweave. These patterns make the floor look unique, but they also take more time for installation, which can significantly increase your costs. Sticking with a straightforward layout can keep your tile project more affordable.

DIY Installation

Tiling is something that the average person can do, but it's time-consuming and requires specific products and processes. Installing the tile yourself can save you a significant amount of money. However, you should research the process to install the floor correctly so it lasts.

Consider your budget and skill level to decide the best ways to save money on your tile flooring installation. Investing in quality tiles and proper installation is key for a floor that looks great and lasts.