A tiler fixes ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles to floors, walls and wet areas to produce a durable, waterproof and decorative finish. Wall and floor tiling is one of the most visible finishing trades on any project and poor tiling - uneven joints, lippage between tiles, failed adhesion or inadequate waterproofing behind tiles in wet areas - can be both unsightly and structurally problematic. A professional tiler will assess the substrate condition, apply appropriate waterproofing (tanking) behind tiles in wet rooms and showers, and select the right adhesive and grout for the tile material and location.
What they do
- Bathroom and shower room wall and floor tiling
- Kitchen splashback and floor tiling
- Wet room tanking and waterproofing systems
- Outdoor paving, terrace and patio tiling
- Swimming pool tiling
- Commercial floor and wall tiling
- Replacement and repair of failed or cracked tiles
- Large format tile installation requiring specialist adhesives and levelling systems
When you need one
Tiling is required for all wet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens - and for any external paved or tiled area. Always ensure waterproofing is applied behind tiles in wet areas before tiling begins.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Wall tiling - labour (per sq m) | £15 - £35/sq m |
| Floor tiling - labour (per sq m) | £18 - £40/sq m |
| Natural stone - labour (per sq m) | £25 - £50/sq m |
| Full bathroom tiling - labour | £800 - £2,500 |
| Large format tiles - premium | 20-30% above standard |
| Hourly rate | £35 - £65/hr |
Tile costs above are labour only. Tile and adhesive materials are additional. Mosaic, handmade and unusually shaped tiles cost more to lay due to the additional time required.
Qualifications to look for
The blue Skilled Worker CSCS card confirms the holder has achieved the relevant trade qualification. Expected on all commercial and larger domestic tiling projects.
The standard vocational qualification for tilers covering all aspects of ceramic, porcelain and stone tile installation, adhesive selection, grouting and waterproofing.
The Tile Association (TTA) is the UK tile industry trade body. Members have demonstrated knowledge and competence in tile installation and must adhere to a code of practice. Find a member at tiles.org.uk.
How to find a reputable tiler
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?
Porcelain is denser, less porous and harder-wearing than ceramic - better for high-traffic floors, wet areas and outdoor use. Ceramic is easier to cut and better suited to walls. Porcelain tiles are more expensive and require a diamond blade wet saw to cut accurately - a specialist tiler will have the right equipment.
How do I prepare a floor for tiling?
The substrate must be level, solid and dry. Any deflection or flex will cause grout lines to crack over time. On timber floors, boards must be screwed down at close centres and any unevenness made good with self-levelling compound. The tiler should assess and prepare the substrate before laying any tiles.
Can you tile over existing tiles?
Yes if the existing tiles are firmly bonded and the added weight and height is acceptable - for example on walls where door frames will not be affected. Removing old tiles and starting fresh usually gives better results, particularly on floors where any unevenness can cause the new tiles to crack.