Buying luxury tiles seems straightforward—pick a design you love, get a quote, and book the install. But costs can spiral quickly. Beyond the tile price, you’re looking at labor, prep work, shipping, underlayment, sealants, and sometimes structural fixes. Once the project starts, surprises can hit your wallet hard.
If you’re considering premium tiles, slow down and plan thoroughly. It’s not just about the tile’s style—it’s about the total cost of a perfect installation. What’s the real price? What could trip you up? And what’s often left out of the first estimate?
Here’s a no-nonsense guide to what to expect, what to ask, and how to keep your budget on track.
Create a Solid Budget
You might have a cost in mind, perhaps from browsing online or hearing about a friend’s project. But tile pricing varies widely based on material, space size, and layout intricacy.
Luxury tiles cost more for their craftsmanship—think premium materials, unique designs, or imported finishes. But the tile itself is only part of the equation.
Before you commit, calculate:
- Total area to be tiled
- Tile material (e.g., ceramic, marble, or mosaic)
- Pattern complexity (basic vs. detailed designs)
- Prep needs (demolition, leveling, waterproofing)
- Extras like grout, sealant, and underlayment
A trustworthy tiles supplier will help you map this out. They know tiles are just one cost. If they skip questions about your space or tile use, that’s a red flag.
Labor Can Be Costly
Labor often rivals or surpasses the tile cost, especially for premium tiles. Why? High-end tiles demand precision, and mistakes are expensive. A simple subway tile layout might be quick, but a stone mosaic or custom pattern takes serious time and skill.
Hire experienced installers. A poor job can ruin beautiful tiles. Also, account for demolition—removing old flooring adds time and expense. If your subfloor needs leveling or other prep, that’s another cost to factor in.
Watch for Shipping Fees
Premium tiles are often imported or stocked in small quantities. Shipping heavy or oversized tiles, like limestone or large slabs, can get pricey. Ask your supplier: Where are the tiles coming from? Is freight included? Any extra charges for home delivery?
Some tiles suppliers waive shipping for large orders, but not all. If your project’s on a tight schedule, rush delivery could drive up costs.
Buy Extra Tiles
Order 10–15% more tile than your measurements suggest. Tiles can crack, patterns need extra cuts, and batch colors may differ. Ordering just enough risks running short during installation. If your tile is discontinued or custom, that’s a big problem. Extra tiles now save you from delays or mismatches.
Prep Work Matters
A solid tile job hinges on proper prep. Uneven subfloors, missing waterproofing, or incorrect underlayment can cause failures. Depending on the area (e.g., bathroom, patio, or kitchen), you might need:
- Leveling compounds
- Backer boards
- Moisture barriers
- Floor heating systems
These add to the budget but are critical. Skimping risks cracked tiles or water damage. Grout and sealants also cost money, and porous tiles like travertine need regular sealing, not just a one-time application.
Know Return and Damage Policies
Before you buy, ask about returns. Can you return unused tiles? What if a shipment arrives damaged or off-color? Luxury tiles, especially special orders, may be non-returnable. Shipping damage is common, too.
A reliable tiles supplier will check deliveries and manage claims. Ask about their policies upfront to avoid issues later.
Confirm Quote Details
Quotes don’t always cover everything. Some installers exclude demolition, grout, or sealant costs. Complex layouts, stairs, or wall prep might cost extra. Go through the quote carefully and ask what’s included—and what’s not. If it’s vague, request clarity. You’re spending big—demand clear answers.
Plan Before You Choose
It’s tempting to pick a tile for its stunning look—its color, texture, or design. But don’t order until you’ve budgeted for the whole job. Luxury tiles are a serious investment. Work with a tiles supplier who knows their stock. Hire installers skilled with premium materials. And account for all costs—tile, labor, prep, and shipping.
Avoiding hidden costs requires preparation. Plan the entire project, and you’ll stay in control. No one wants expensive surprises. Ask the right questions, and your tiles will look stunning without breaking your budget.