How to describe a tiling job for useful quotes
The same square metre area can require very different labour depending on tile size, pattern, cuts and the condition of the surface below. A good tiling post describes both the finish you want and the preparation that may be needed before the first tile is fixed.
Do not hide cracked, loose or damp surfaces in photographs. Those details help a tiler decide whether inspection or repair is needed before giving a final installation price.
Measure each tiled area
- Give wall widths and heights or approximate square metres.
- Separate floors, shower walls, splashbacks and feature areas.
- List doorways, niches, windows, steps and other detailed cuts.
- Say whether old tiles must be removed.
- Attach wide photos and a simple marked sketch where useful.
Specify tiles and layout
State tile material, dimensions, thickness and whether products are already purchased. Describe straight, brick-bond, diagonal, herringbone or other patterns, plus grout colour and trim finish. Large-format, patterned and natural materials may need specific handling, so include product information rather than relying on a style photo alone.
Describe the surface underneath
Say whether the visible base is plaster, plasterboard, concrete, timber, tile backer or existing tile. Mention cracks, loose areas, deflection, unevenness and moisture. In wet areas, ask the installer to define preparation and waterproofing responsibilities before tiling begins.
Clarify materials and finishing
- Who supplies adhesive, grout, trims, levelling products and sealant?
- Are tile removal and waste disposal included?
- Who removes and refits sanitaryware, sockets or appliances?
- How will edges, corners, thresholds and movement joints be finished?
- When can the tiled area return to normal use?
Agree the tile layout before installation
Request a brief layout discussion before adhesive is mixed. Confirm the starting point, grout-joint width, alignment through doorways, treatment of niches and the position of narrow cuts. Also agree the grout and sealant colours. These choices strongly affect the finished appearance and are much easier to resolve before tiles are fixed.
Copyable tiling description
Example: 'Tile a 5 square metre bathroom floor and approximately 16 square metres of shower and bath walls in a Meath semi. Existing wall tiles and floor vinyl need removal. We have selected 600 x 300 mm porcelain wall tiles and 300 x 300 mm floor tiles in a straight layout. One wall has a recessed niche. Please include surface assessment, wet-area preparation, adhesive, grout, trims, sealant and waste removal. Photos and measurements are attached.'
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy tiles before finding a tiler?+
You can choose a product, but confirm suitability, quantity, waste allowance and delivery timing with the installer before placing a final order.
Do tilers remove old tiles?+
Some do, but it is not automatic. State whether removal, surface repair and waste disposal should be included.
Why does tile size matter?+
Size, thickness, material and pattern influence handling, cutting, surface preparation and layout time, so include the exact product details.
Should waterproofing be in the quote?+
For wet areas, ask the installer to define the preparation and waterproofing system, who installs it and how it is documented.
What measurements should I provide?+
Give each wall and floor dimension separately, plus windows, doors, niches, steps and other areas requiring detailed cuts.
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