How Much Do Tiling Services Cost in Somerset?
What Really Affects the Price (And What Homeowners Should Know)
One of the first questions homeowners ask before starting a tiling project is simple enough: “How much is this going to cost?”
The honest answer? It depends — but not in a vague or evasive way.
Tiling costs in Somerset are influenced by several clear, practical factors. Once you understand them, pricing suddenly makes sense, quotes become easier to compare, and costly surprises are far less likely. Let’s break it down properly.
Average Cost of Tiling Services in Somerset
As a general guide, professional tiling services typically range from £30 to £150 per square metre, excluding tiles.
However, this is only a starting point. Some projects fall below this range. Others go well above it.
Why? Because no two homes — or rooms — are ever the same.
1. Size of the Area Being Tiled
Room size plays a bigger role than many people expect.
Smaller areas, such as cloakrooms or splashbacks, often have a higher cost per square metre. There’s still setup time, cutting, levelling, and finishing involved — even if the space itself is compact.
Larger areas, like open-plan kitchens or full ground floors, usually benefit from better value per metre, but they require more materials, more time, and more physical work overall.
In short:
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Small space → higher rate, lower total
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Large space → lower rate, higher total
2. Tile Type and Material
Not all tiles are created equal — and pricing reflects that.
Some tiles are straightforward to work with. Others demand precision, patience, and experience.
Common tile types and their impact on cost:
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Ceramic tiles: More affordable, easier to cut, quicker to install
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Porcelain tiles: Harder, denser, longer cutting time
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Natural stone (slate, marble, limestone): Heavy, delicate, and labour-intensive
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Large-format tiles: Fewer grout lines, but far more demanding to install correctly
Intricate patterns, textured finishes, or handmade tiles also increase labour time. The tile itself isn’t the only cost — it’s how it behaves during installation that matters.
3. Preparation Work (Often the Hidden Cost)
This is where many quotes differ — and where homeowners should pay close attention.
If the surface underneath isn’t flat, solid, and suitable for tiling, extra work is required before a single tile goes down.
Preparation may include:
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Removing old tiles
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Levelling uneven floors
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Repairing damaged walls
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Installing backer boards or waterproofing
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Addressing damp or movement issues
Skipping preparation might save money initially.
It almost always costs more later.
4. Room Type and Usage
Bathrooms and kitchens typically cost more to tile than living areas. Not because tilers charge extra for the sake of it — but because these rooms demand higher standards.
Bathrooms often require:
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Waterproofing
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Precise falls for drainage
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Detailed cuts around fixtures
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Specialist adhesives and grouts
Kitchens bring their own challenges, especially around appliances, units, and splashbacks.
5. Pattern, Layout, and Detail
Straightforward grid layouts are quicker to install.
Complex designs take time — and skill.
Examples that increase labour cost:
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Herringbone or chevron patterns
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Hexagon or mosaic tiles
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Feature borders or niches
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Mitred edges instead of trims
These details look fantastic when done well. They simply require more planning and precision.
6. Labour Quality (And Why It Matters)
It’s tempting to compare quotes on price alone. But tiling is one of those trades where quality shows — or fails — very quickly.
Poor installation can lead to:
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Cracked tiles
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Uneven lines
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Loose floors
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Water damage
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Costly repairs
A professional tiler doesn’t just lay tiles. They assess the space, prepare it properly, and install everything so it lasts.
Getting the Right Value
The real question isn’t “What’s the cheapest tiling quote?”
It’s “What am I actually getting for my money?”
Clear pricing, proper preparation, quality materials, and experienced workmanship all contribute to a finished result that looks right — and stays that way.
If you’re planning a tiling project in Somerset and want honest advice, clear expectations, and a finish built to last, speaking to a professional early on can save time, stress, and unnecessary cost. Contact Druston for a free, no-obligation quote.
