Tiling the Bathroom: What Melbourne Homeowners Should Know Before Picking Up the Trowel
Is DIY Tiling Worth It?
It seems simple enough: measure, buy the tiles, spread some adhesive, and off you go.
But most Melbourne homeowners seriously underestimate the skill — and risk — involved in tiling a bathroom.
A crooked tile line or dodgy waterproofing can cost thousands to rip up and redo.
The 3 Things Most People Get Wrong
1. Surface Prep
Bathroom tiles need a solid, perfectly flat surface.
If you’re tiling over old tiles, damaged sheeting, or uneven floors — expect problems.
2. Waterproofing
This isn’t optional.
Incorrect membrane application leads to water damage behind walls, mould growth, and long-term structural issues.
3. Tile Layout
Bad tile layout = bad finish.
If you haven’t planned your lines and cuts before you start, you’ll end up with:
Uneven grout joints
Awkward slivers at edges
Misaligned patterns around drains or fixtures
Choosing the Right Tiles for Melbourne Homes
If you’re set on tiling yourself, here’s what to watch:
Porcelain is more durable and water-resistant than ceramic
Larger tiles make small bathrooms feel bigger — but are harder to install well
Matte finishes offer better slip resistance
Neutral tones age better (and boost resale value)
Cost to Tile a Bathroom in Melbourne
Basic tiles + DIY labour: $1,500 – $2,500+
Professional tiling only: $3,000 – $5,000+
Full renovation (with tiling included): $18,000 – $35,000+
Doing just the tiles might seem cheaper…
But it rarely fixes deeper layout, drainage, or aesthetic issues — and you’re still left with an old bathroom underneath.
Why We Usually Recommend a Full Bathroom Renovation Instead
Tiling alone is a surface upgrade.
A full bathroom renovation lets you:
Improve layout and flow
Fix waterproofing at the root
Upgrade plumbing, lighting, ventilation
Add resale value and long-term peace of mind
We handle all of it — with licensed trades, clean finishes, and premium attention to detail.
📞 Ready for More Than Just Tiles? Let’s Plan It Right.
If your bathroom’s due for an upgrade, don’t stop at the surface.
Book your free consultation and we’ll help you plan a renovation that lasts — tiles and all.
