How Much to Retile a Bathroom in Melbourne 2025? Learn It in 5 Minutes
Retiling a bathroom is one of the most effective ways to upgrade your space, giving it a fresh, modern look while improving durability and waterproofing. If you’re a homeowner in Melbourne planning a bathroom renovation in 2025, understanding the costs involved is essential for budgeting effectively.
This guide breaks down the expenses, key factors that impact pricing, and how to save money while ensuring high-quality results.
1. Average Cost to Retile a Bathroom in Melbourne
The cost of retiling a bathroom in Melbourne varies based on factors like tile type, labor charges, and additional work required. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs:
General Cost Range
- Basic Retiling: $3,000 – $7,000
- Mid-Range Retiling: $7,000 – $12,000
- Luxury Retiling: $12,000+
Cost Per Square Meter
- Tile Installation: $50 – $230 per sqm
- Labor Charges: $50 – $120 per sqm
- Old Tile Removal: $25 – $40 per sqm
- Waterproofing: $500 – $1,500, depending on bathroom size
Since labor costs in Melbourne are relatively high due to the demand for skilled tilers, it’s crucial to work with experienced professionals who ensure efficiency and quality.
2. Factors That Influence Retiling Costs
Several factors determine how much it costs to retile a bathroom in Melbourne. While the cost per square meter provides a rough estimate, additional elements such as tile selection, bathroom size, labor rates, and extra work like waterproofing can significantly impact the final price.
Below is a breakdown of the key cost factors before starting a bathroom retiling project.
1. Tile Type and Material
Choosing the right tile material is crucial, as different types vary in durability, maintenance needs, and price. Basic ceramic tiles are cost-effective, while premium natural stone options like marble and travertine require sealing and specialized installation, increasing labor costs.
- Ceramic Tiles: Budget-friendly and widely used ($30–$50 per sqm).
- Porcelain Tiles: More durable and water-resistant ($50–$100 per sqm).
- Natural Stone (Marble, Granite, Travertine): High-end materials requiring sealing ($100+ per sqm).
- Vinyl or Hybrid Tiles: Affordable alternatives to natural stone while maintaining a stylish appearance.
Larger tiles are more cost-effective as they reduce labor time and grout lines, making cleaning easier.
2. Bathroom Size and Layout
The size and layout of your bathroom also play a major role. A small ensuite may require minimal tiling, keeping costs down, whereas a larger bathroom with a complex layout or intricate tile designs will require more labor and materials.
- Small Bathrooms (Ensuites): Require fewer tiles, keeping costs lower.
- Medium to Large Bathrooms: Higher expenses due to increased tile usage.
- Complex Layouts: Custom tile cutting for irregular shapes increases labor costs.
3. Labor Costs in Melbourne
Labor costs in Melbourne vary based on the expertise of the tiler, project complexity, and additional services like tile removal, waterproofing, or underfloor heating installation. Homeowners should account for these extra expenses to ensure a well-planned budget.
Professional tilers in Melbourne charge between $45 – $85 per hour or $50 – $120 per sqm for tile installation. Hiring experienced tilers ensures precision and durability, preventing costly rework.
4. Additional Expenses
Apart from the primary costs, you may need to budget for:
- Tile Removal & Waste Disposal: $25 – $40 per sqm.
- Waterproofing: Essential for moisture protection ($500 – $1,500).
- Underfloor Heating (Optional): Adds comfort at approximately $105 per sqm.
- Tile Sealing: Required for natural stone tiles to prevent water damage.
3. Step-by-Step Retiling Process
Understanding the retiling timeline helps you plan effectively, ensuring minimal disruptions to your daily routine. A standard bathroom retiling project in Melbourne typically takes 1–2 weeks, depending on the size, tile type, and complexity of the project. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step in the process.
Step 1: Removing Old Tiles (1–3 Days)
The first step involves carefully removing the existing tiles while minimizing damage to the underlying surface. If the tiles were incorrectly installed or poorly waterproofed, additional repairs might be needed. Tile removal also includes:
- Stripping old adhesive to create a smooth surface for new tiles.
- Disposing of tile debris in accordance with Melbourne waste regulations.
- Assessing the substrate for cracks, moisture issues, or unevenness.
For larger bathrooms or full-wall tiling, tile removal may take closer to 3 days, especially if extra structural preparation is required.
Step 2: Surface Preparation & Waterproofing (1–2 Days)
Before new tiles are installed, proper surface preparation is essential to ensure durability and moisture resistance. This involves:
- Repairing or leveling the substrate (if needed).
- Applying a waterproofing membrane to prevent leaks and water damage.
- Allowing waterproofing to cure (which may take 24 hours or more).
Melbourne’s building codes require bathrooms to be waterproofed by a licensed professional, especially in wet areas like showers. Skipping this step can lead to costly repairs down the track.
Step 3: Tile Installation & Grouting (3–5 Days)
Once waterproofing is dry, the tile installation begins. The timeframe depends on the tile size, pattern complexity, and total surface area. The process includes:
- Laying tiles in the chosen design, ensuring precise alignment.
- Cutting tiles for edges, niches, and around fixtures.
- Applying grout between the tiles to seal and strengthen the installation.
- Cleaning excess grout before it fully dries.
Larger tiles typically take less time to install due to fewer grout lines. However, intricate patterns like mosaics or herringbone designs require more cutting and placement adjustments, extending the installation period.
Step 4: Curing & Final Sealing (1–2 Days)
Once the tiles are set, a curing period is necessary to ensure they bond properly. Additional steps include:
- Allowing grout to dry completely (usually 24 hours).
- Applying a sealant (if using porous tiles like marble, travertine, or natural stone).
- Performing a final check to ensure tiles are evenly set.
Skipping or rushing this step can result in tile shifting, grout cracks, or water seepage, leading to future repairs.
Step 5: Clean-Up & Finishing Touches (1 Day)
The last stage of the project includes:
- Polishing and deep cleaning tiles to remove any dust or adhesive residue.
- Reinstalling fixtures such as taps, towel racks, and mirrors.
- Final inspections to ensure all grout lines and sealants are intact.
Once completed, your newly tiled bathroom will be ready to use, withstanding moisture and wear for years to come.
4. How to Save Money on Retiling Costs
While retiling a bathroom can be a significant investment, there are several ways to minimize expenses without compromising quality. By making smart choices in tile selection, labor, and project scope, homeowners in Melbourne can achieve a fresh, modern look while keeping costs manageable.
One of the most effective ways to cut costs is by choosing affordable yet durable tile options.
Local Melbourne suppliers often offer high-quality ceramic or porcelain tiles at competitive prices, providing a balance between aesthetics and budget. Additionally, opting for large-format tiles can reduce labor time and installation costs since they require fewer grout lines and less manual work.
If a full retiling project exceeds your budget, consider retiling only high-impact areas like shower walls, splashbacks, or feature walls, which can provide a significant visual upgrade while keeping costs down.
For those comfortable with DIY tasks, removing old tiles before professional installation can help reduce labor expenses. However, proper tools and safety precautions are necessary to prevent damage to underlying surfaces.
5. Why Choose Skilled Tradies for Your Bathroom Retiling in Melbourne?
At Skilled Tradies, we specialize in high-quality bathroom renovations with a focus on precision and efficiency. Here’s why Melbourne homeowners trust us:
- Experienced Professionals: Our skilled tilers ensure flawless finishes.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden costs, just fair, upfront quotes.
- Premium Waterproofing: We use advanced sealing techniques to prevent future leaks.
- Efficient Timelines: We complete projects on schedule to minimize disruption.
With our expertise, you can achieve a stunning, long-lasting bathroom without unnecessary delays or budget blowouts.
Conclusion
Retiling a bathroom in Melbourne can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $12,000+, depending on tile selection, labor rates, and additional features. By understanding the costs, choosing quality materials, and hiring experienced professionals, you can ensure a cost-effective, durable, and stylish renovation.
If you’re ready to retile your bathroom, contact Skilled Tradies today for expert advice and a free quote tailored to your needs.
