Is tiling a bathroom on your own a good idea?

Tiling a bathroom can be a tedious and challenging task. Professionals typically charge over £20 per square metre, which can take a large chunk out of your bathroom budget. Tiles are long-lasting and a brilliant way to add character to your bathroom. Tiles can withstand scratching and staining throughout years of use, unlike a more affordable paint job. 

However, applying tiles is not as straightforward as it looks. You need skill and patience to apply the tiles correctly and accurately. Here are a few tips on how to tile your bathroom like a professional.

Picking tiles, measuring and planning

You need to measure the surface that you want to tile. Measure the length and width, multiply the numbers and divide the result by the size of the tiles you have chosen. This will tell you how many tiles you need to buy. Remember to buy a few extra in case any arrive broken, or you make a mistake when applying them. 

There are various types of tiles with different properties suitable for multiple areas in your home. Natural stone is a popular option for the bathroom; just make sure to treat it with a waterproof layer. 

The type of tile you choose also depends on your home’s aesthetic, budget, and any maintenance requirements you have. 

How to apply

Use a pipe detector to find any pipes in the floors and walls and mark them with a pencil. You do not want to drill through a pipe.

Remove any old wallpaper, paint, or tiles from the surface. Wash the wall with TSP to remove grease and residue on the wall or use a scraper to remove existing adhesive.

Once the wall is clean, you can begin tiling. Pay attention to the corners and edges and make sure all of the tiles are the same size. Use an angle grinder to cut any tiles that are too big to fit into the corners. 

Firmly press the tile into the adhesive and give it a slight twist to secure. If you place it on a noticeable angle, rearrange it quickly before the adhesive sets.

Alternatives to tiles

Does tiling sound a bit too complex for your DIY abilities? Opt for bathroom wall panels or a fresh lick of paint instead. Mix up your colour scheme with a deep blue or stick to a neutral white to add a bright atmosphere to the room.