Tiling a Bathroom in Wollongong: What You Need to Know
A bathroom re-tile is one of the most impactful renovations you can do to your Illawarra home. It can transform a tired, outdated space and add real value to your property. Here’s everything you need to know before getting started.
Do I Need to Remove Old Tiles?
In most cases, yes. While tiling over existing tiles is sometimes done, it’s generally not recommended. It increases the weight on walls and floors, can create height issues at doorways, and — most importantly — it doesn’t address any underlying waterproofing issues. We recommend removing old tiles in most bathroom remodelling situations.
Waterproofing: The Most Important Step
Before any tiles go on bathroom walls or floors in Wollongong, the substrate must be properly waterproofed. This is required by Australian Building Code and non-negotiable. Poor waterproofing is the number one cause of major bathroom damage — water gets behind tiles, causes structural rot, and creates mould problems that are very expensive to fix.
Illawarra Handyman applies waterproofing membranes to Australian standards on every bathroom tiling job.
Choosing Your Tiles for the Illawarra Climate
Coastal humidity means Wollongong bathrooms need tiles and grout that are resistant to mould. For floor tiles, choose a tile with a slip resistance rating of P3 or higher (especially for wet areas). Large format tiles are popular and create a luxurious feel, but they require a perfectly flat substrate.
How Long Does Bathroom Tiling Take?
A standard shower recess typically takes 2–3 days including substrate preparation, waterproofing, tiling, and grouting. Full bathroom renovations take longer. Tiles and grout need curing time before the bathroom can be used — typically 24–48 hours after grouting.
What Does Bathroom Tiling Cost in Wollongong?
Tiling costs vary significantly based on tile size, layout complexity, and whether waterproofing and substrate work is required. As a guide:
- Shower recess re-tile: $800–$2,500+
- Full bathroom floor and wall tile: $2,000–$6,000+
- Supply of tiles is separate and varies enormously
We provide free, detailed quotes for all tiling projects in Wollongong. Call to discuss your bathroom.
Illawarra Handyman: 0493 589 355 | Mon–Sat 7am–5pm
Need professional tiling in Wollongong or the Illawarra? Our tiling services covers the whole Illawarra region — no call-out fees, fully licensed and insured.