What's a fair price for tile installation per square foot?

Tile installation in Ottawa typically runs $8 to $30 per square foot installed, depending on the tile type, layout complexity, and surface being tiled.

Floor tile generally falls in the $8 to $25/sq ft range installed, while wall tile runs slightly higher at $10 to $30/sq ft due to the additional skill and time required to work vertically. These prices include labour, adhesive, grout, and basic prep work — but not the tile itself, which you'll price separately.

Several factors push costs toward the higher end. Large-format tiles (24"x24" and up) require more precise substrate preparation and are heavier to handle. Diagonal or herringbone patterns add 15–20% to labour costs because of the extra cuts involved. Natural stone like marble or travertine also costs more to install since it requires sealing and more careful handling than porcelain or ceramic.

Substrate preparation is where many homeowners get surprised. If your subfloor needs leveling, waterproofing membrane needs to be applied (essential in wet areas), or old tile needs to be removed first, those are typically priced separately. In a bathroom specifically, proper waterproofing behind wall tile in shower areas is non-negotiable — skipping it leads to water damage behind the walls.

In the Ottawa market, a small bathroom floor (50–60 sq ft) might run $500–$1,500 in tile labour alone, while a full shower surround including floor and walls could be $2,000–$5,000+ depending on complexity.

When comparing quotes, make sure each contractor is quoting the same scope — prep work, waterproofing, and tile removal can vary significantly between estimates. For a free estimate on your tile project, feel free to request a quote from Ottawa Bathrooms.