Cost of Tiling in South Africa

Comprehensive Cost Guide on Tiling in South Africa

Tiling is one of the most effective ways to enhance the look, durability and value of your home, whether you’re updating floors, kitchen backsplashes, or bathroom walls. The cost of tiling varies depending on the size of the area, type of tiles, and the complexity of the job. We asked Kandua Tiling Pros for estimates, and here’s what they shared:

Average Household Tiling Cost

For most homeowners, the average cost of tiling includes both labor and materials. Prices can vary based on the quality of tiles, the condition of the surface, and the size of the project.

• Total cost for basic tiling jobs: Homeowners can expect to pay between R200 and R1,000 per square meter for standard tiling projects, which includes both labor and tiles. Complex designs or premium tiles can drive costs higher.
• Floor Tiling: For tiling large areas like floors, costs typically range between R20,000 and R50,000 for a standard 3-bedroom home, depending on the tile choice and the size of the area to be covered.
• Wall Tiling: Tiling kitchen or bathroom walls can cost anywhere from R150 to R600+ per square meter, depending on whether the tiles are standard ceramic, porcelain, or high-end options like natural stone or mosaic.

Budget Tiling Costs

For homeowners looking for cost-effective tiling options, budget tiling can be achieved by selecting more affordable materials and opting for simpler installations.

• 1-Bedroom House: Budget-friendly floor tiling jobs can cost between R10,000 and R20,000, depending on tile materials and labor.
• Per Room: Tiling a single room (like a small bathroom or kitchen) on a budget can cost between R2,500 and R5,000, using standard ceramic tiles and basic installation.

High-End Tiling Costs

For premium finishes or using luxury materials like marble, travertine, or other natural stones, expect to pay more for both tiles and the skilled labor required for installation.

• Custom Tiling Projects: High-end tiling for a 3-bedroom home can cost between R50,000 and R100,000, especially with intricate patterns, large tiles, or natural stone. Custom designs, mosaics, or feature walls may also increase costs.
• Bathroom or Kitchen Wall Tiling: High-end tiles such as natural stone or high-quality mosaics can cost between R600 and R1,500 per square meter, including installation.

Average Tiling Repair Costs

Occasionally, tiles may need repairs due to cracking, loosening, or general wear and tear. Minor touch-ups and replacements are common.

• Minor Tile Repairs: Small tile repair jobs or replacing a few broken tiles can cost between R300 and R1,500, depending on the extent of the damage and materials needed.
• Re-grouting: Re-grouting or sealing tiles to refresh the appearance or address wear typically costs between R800 and R2,500 for an average-sized room.

Estimated Costs Associated with Tiling in South Africa

Several factors will influence the cost of your tiling project, including the quality of materials, surface preparation, and the level of craftsmanship required. Here's an overview of what to expect:

Other Factors That Influence the Cost of Tiling

Type of Tiles:

• Ceramic Tiles: Affordable and versatile, ceramic tiles are ideal for floors and walls, costing R80 to R250 per square meter.
• Porcelain Tiles: Durable and water-resistant, perfect for high-traffic areas or bathrooms, costing R200 to R500 per square meter.
• Natural Stone Tiles: Luxurious and long-lasting, marble, granite, or travertine tiles can cost between R600 to R1,500 per square meter.
  
  Size and Design: The overall size of the project and any specific design requirements will significantly affect the cost. Complex patterns, such as herringbone or custom mosaics, will require skilled labor, increasing the total price.
  Location: Homes in hard-to-access areas or with uneven surfaces may require extra labor for levelling and installation, increasing labor costs.

How is Household Tiling Done?

The tiling process generally follows these steps:

1. Surface Preparation: The area is cleaned, levelled, and prepared for tiling.
2. Layout: Tiles are dry-laid to determine the best pattern and layout.
3. Tiling: Tiles are installed with adhesive or mortar.
4. Grouting: Once the tiles are set, grout is applied between them.
5. Finishing Touches: The surface is cleaned, and edges are sealed to ensure durability.

How Long Does It Take to Tile a Home?

The duration of a tiling project varies based on the size and complexity:

• 1-2 Days: Small projects like a bathroom floor or kitchen backsplash.
• 1-2 Weeks: Large projects like tiling the floors of an entire house, especially if custom work is required.

DIY vs Professional Tiling

While DIY tiling can save on labor costs, hiring a professional ensures high-quality results, especially for large or complex projects where precision is crucial.

When Should You Get Professional Help?

• Large or Complex Jobs: Tiling large floors or walls requires precise cuts, levelling, and grouting, which can be challenging for DIY projects.
• Bathrooms or Kitchens: These areas require moisture-resistant tiles and proper waterproofing to prevent long-term damage.
• Custom Designs: Intricate designs or high-end materials are best handled by professionals to ensure a flawless finish.

How to Save Money on Tiling

• Buy Tiles in Bulk: Purchasing tiles in bulk can save on costs, especially if you are tiling multiple areas.
• Off-Season Installation: Tiling professionals may offer lower rates during slower periods.
• Basic Prep Work: You can save on labor costs by doing surface preparation, like levelling and cleaning, yourself.

How Do I Find The Right Pro For My Tiling Installation?

Tiling can transform your home’s floors and walls, adding beauty, durability, and value. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly ceramic tile installation or a luxurious marble finish, Kandua connects you with trusted tiling professionals who can help bring your vision to life.

Now that you have a better understanding of tiling repair prices – it’s time to find the best Pro for the job.

Luckily for you – Kandua has hundreds of Pros who install tiles on a daily basis.

Here are our top tips to help you find the right Pro for your tiling installation:

• Give the contractor as much information as possible. The more details they have the more efficiently they can quote on the job and also offer their professional advice.
• Once you’ve gotten quotes from different Pros – you can look up their profiles on Kandua and read their reviews and see pictures of their work.
• Read the quote carefully. Make sure you double-check everything so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.

Remember, it’s not always about finding the cheapest option. Stick to these tips, and take into account the entire package, Pro reviews, your experience in dealing with them and then, of course, the cost.

These figures are approximate and may not accurately reflect current prices in South Africa. Click here for free, non-obligatory, up-to-date, location-specific quotes for tiling installations.

Q: What types of tiles are best for different areas of the home?
A: The type of tile you choose depends on the area being tiled. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms due to their water resistance, while natural stone tiles like slate or marble can add a luxurious look to living areas. Outdoor areas benefit from slip-resistant tiles such as textured porcelain or quarry tiles.

Q: Do I need to prepare the surface before tiling?
A: Yes, proper surface preparation is key for a successful tiling project. The surface must be clean, dry, level, and free of any cracks or loose material. In some cases, a primer or leveling compound may be required to ensure a smooth surface for the tiles.

Q: What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?
A: Ceramic tiles are made from clay and are more porous, making them better suited for walls or areas with less moisture. Porcelain tiles, made from denser clay, are less porous and more durable, making them ideal for floors and high-traffic areas.

Q: Can I tile over existing tiles?
A: Tiling over existing tiles is possible if the current tiles are in good condition, properly adhered, and the surface is level. However, it may be necessary to sand or roughen the old tiles to ensure proper bonding of the new tiles.

Q: How do I maintain and clean tiled surfaces?
A: Tiled surfaces are relatively easy to maintain. Regular sweeping and mopping with water and a mild detergent will keep them clean. For natural stone tiles, special cleaners designed for stone should be used to avoid damaging the surface.

Q: What are the most common mistakes to avoid when tiling?
A: Common mistakes include improper surface preparation, using the wrong adhesive, uneven tile placement, and insufficient grout application. Hiring a professional can help avoid these issues and ensure a long-lasting result.

Q: How do I choose the right grout for my tiles?
A: Grout comes in various colours and types, including sanded and unsanded. Sanded grout is best for wider gaps between tiles, while unsanded grout is ideal for narrower joints. Choose a grout colour that complements or contrasts with your tile to enhance the design.

Q: How long does it take for tiles to set before use?
A: After the tiles are laid, they need about 24-48 hours to fully set. It's important to avoid walking on or placing heavy objects on the tiles during this curing time. Grout typically needs a few additional days to cure before the area can be used.