Initially, it may seem a bit more expensive to use ceramic tiles as compared to using other surface coverings. But the difference can be minimal thanks to new ceramic technology and market competition. Tiles are long-term investments and only require simple maintenance.

On top of that, surveys show that ceramic tiles can actually increase the value of your home!

Maintenance

• Good tile work means that the maintenance is cheap and fuss-free. Just sweep, mop or vacuum.

Contractors, Tools & Materials

• Experienced and well-equipped contractors generally charge more.
• Intricate work and tiles with very low water absorption may require experienced workers.
• The type of materials the contractor uses makes a difference. For e.g. mortar costs less than adhesives.

Extra Finishing

• Finishing is usually done on the edges of tiles laid on doorways, countertops, wall corners etc. for aesthetic or safety reasons.
  • To bevel/mitre (creating a slope on the tile edge) involves extra cost.
  • To round off the edge is harder than mitring/bevelling and costs more.

Type & size of tiles

• Hard-wearing full body tiles generally cost more than glazed ceramic tiles
• Bigger sized tiles tend to cost more per square meter.
• The cost of applying bigger tiles is also more per square meter.
• For porcelain full body tiles, a polished surface costs more than a non-polished one.