What is a Tiling Contractor?

A Tiling Contractor is a licensed tradesperson who installs floor and wall tiles in wet areas like bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. Their work involves preparing surfaces, laying tiles accurately, and applying grout and sealant to achieve a long-lasting, water-resistant finish.

What does a Tiling Contractor do?

Your Tiling Contractor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Tiling Contractor will:

  • Confirm the finished floor and wall heights and tile layout
  • Prepare tile beds (a sand and cement base) where required to achieve falls and levels
  • Lay tiles on walls and floors using the specified pattern and materials
  • Apply grout, expansion joints, and silicone sealants
  • Clean and inspect the finished surface for quality and waterproofing compliance


Tiling is one of the final fit-off trades and follows waterproofing, cabinetry, and sometimes flooring.

Barry's Toolbox

A well-laid tile bed can make or break your bathroom drainage — don’t skimp on prep. Always double-check where floor wastes are going and what fall is required before tiles are laid.

What Makes a Good Tiling Contractor?

Look for someone who:

  • Are licensed and experienced in bathroom and wet area installations
  • Understand how to work from tile set-out plans and accommodate design features
  • Are familiar with waterproofing regulations and critical tolerances
  • Communicate well with plumbers, cabinet installers, and waterproofers
  • Can handle detailed work around fixtures, niches, and hobs

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Tiling Contractors, you’ll need:

  • Approved floor and elevation plans
  • Final tile selections (material, size, colour, and finish)
  • Details on tile layout or pattern (e.g. herringbone, stacked, brick)
  • Confirmation of which areas require tile beds
  • Access to site and timeframe for each tiling stage

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the difference between a tile bed and tile adhesive?

    A tile bed is a thicker, screeded base used to create proper falls, especially in bathrooms. Tile adhesive is a thin glue layer used when the floor is already level.

  • Can tiling start immediately after waterproofing?

    No — the waterproofing must fully cure first (usually 24–48 hours). Your tiler will advise the right timing to avoid damaging membranes.

  • Do tilers supply grout and silicone?

    Usually yes, but check your quote. You’ll still need to confirm grout colour and silicone finish with your installer.



How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.