Budget it Right and Smartly!

Adding tile to your space is one of the most transformative upgrades you can make to up the value

of your home. Choosing the right material is only one aspect of installing new tile; determining how

much your project will cost is another. In this blog, we’ll discuss tile installation cost, explore the

factors that impact pricing, and ways to achieve lasting results without draining your finances.

Cost Factors Affecting Budgeting for Tile Installation

1. Size & layout of the project. The first step when setting a budget for your project is to measure the area where the tiles will be installed. The larger the square footage that needs to be covered, the higher the cost of tile installation. Once the square footage and the number of tiles have been determined, it can be helpful to slightly overestimate and invest in at least 10-15% more product to allow for cuts, waste, and mistakes. Extra tiling material also comes in handy down the road in case of replacement.

2. The type of tile material - The type of tile you choose impacts durability, longevity, and maintenance. As outlined earlier, materials needing special treatment, such as marble and travertine tile, will command a higher price. In addition, complex patterns and decorative trims can increase tile flooring installation cost considerably.

3. Additional materials and essentials - The foundation of any successful installation is having quality materials that bring everything together: grout, adhesive, underlayment, trim pieces, and sealant.

4. Labor costs for professional installation - professional installation guarantees a flawless and long-lasting outcome. There are a few variables that impact the rates contractors set, including: Location, Expertise/ Experience, Installation Complexity. In India a typical tile installation might cost you around INR XXX per sq. feet incl. material and Around INR YYY per Sq. Feet excluding material. 

5. Removal of Old Tile and subfloor Repair – If you are renovating an old house then you have to consider this cost as well which includes removal, repair and disposal of old tiles.

To Calculate your Budget, we have prepared a Calculator. You can download the same by clicking HERE and use it to figure out the Costing and then Budget it accordingly. 

Tips for Cost-Effective Tile Installation

With strategic planning and smart choices, you can achieve both style and function without straining your finances. Below are some invaluable tips to help you out:

• Explore different tiling materials and compare their properties, prices, and labor costs. While opulent materials like marble are undeniably beautiful, other alternatives offer the same aesthetic at a fraction of the price.

• Buying tile in bulk or at reduced prices makes a difference, especially if you are working on multiple areas. Take advantage of sales so you can snag high-end options at a fraction of the original cost.

• Carefully negotiate the Labor cost with your contractor. You can also save on labor costs by getting multiple estimates from different tilers. (Use our Labor Rate Estimator given in the selecting the right Civil Work Partner for Region specific indicative labor costs)

  
  

Tile Installation Cost Vs Long Term Value

The total amount you’ll pay for how much to install tile floors involves finding the right balance between quality and budget. While it might be tempting to cut costs on materials or labour, doing so can lead to poor results that need expensive correction later.

Some areas where investing more makes sense include waterproofing in wet areas, quality adhesives for high-traffic zones, and professional installation for complex patterns. Areas where you might economise include choosing mid-range tiles for less visible areas or opting for simpler designs in secondary spaces.

By understanding the breakdown of labour and material expenses, you can make strategic decisions about your tiling project that balance immediate budget constraints with long-term quality and satisfaction. With proper installations, tiles are generally more durable and resistant to wear and tear, giving you peace of mind and beauty to last for decades. 

(Read our blog on common mistakes made by people while installing tiles for better insights)

Common mistakes made by people while installing tiles

Tile Brands and Prices:

Brand	30x60 (cm)	60x60 (cm)	90x90 (cm)	120x60 (cm)
Kajaria	₹187.5 - ₹232.5	₹165	₹330	₹425-537.5
Johnson	₹232.5-277.5	₹210	₹420	₹465-555
Somany	₹247.5-297.5	₹175	₹480	₹572.5-675
Orientbell	₹337.5-412.5	₹300	₹660	₹612.5-725

Note: These prices are best estimates per box. Each box contains 4-5 tiles.

Conclusion

After reviewing tile installation cost, along with the different factors that impact rates, you now have insider knowledge to navigate your project efficiently. With a plan and a budget in place, you can keep expenses in a reasonable range and bring your vision to life without compromising on quality or style. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can fluctuate based on material selection, the complexity of the layout, and any customizations required.