Nisham Alex

How Much to Install Kitchen Tiles in the UK

Kitchen tiles protect walls and floors from heat, grease, water and stains. They also shape the look of your kitchen. Before you book a tiler, you need a clear idea of the cost.
 
In the UK, the average cost to install kitchen tiles ranges from £80 to £130 per square metre, including tiles and labour.
 
This guide breaks down every cost so you can plan with confidence.
 
How Much Does Kitchen Tile Installation Cost Per Square Metre
 
Most projects fall between £80 and £130 per m² for supply and fitting.
 
If you already bought the tiles, labour alone usually costs:

  • £30 to £60 per m², or

  • £150 to £350 per day, depending on experience and region

  • Prices in London and the South East are often 20% to 30% higher than in the North of England or the Midlands.
     
    Small jobs may cost more per metre because tilers still need to cover travel and setup time.
     
    How Much Do Kitchen Tiles Cost by Material Type
     
    Tile material plays a major role in the total cost. Kitchen tiling or bathroom tiling costs vary according to the aesthetics.
     
    Ceramic Tiles

    • £15 to £40 per m²

    • Lightweight and easy to cut

    • Common for kitchen splashbacks

    • Porcelain Tiles

      • £25 to £70 per m²

      • Dense and water-resistant

      • Ideal for kitchen floors and high-traffic areas

      • Natural Stone Tiles
         
        Includes marble, slate and granite.

        • £40 to £120+ per m²

        • Need sealing to prevent stains

        • Higher fitting cost

        • Glass Tiles

          • £30 to £90 per m²

          • Often used for modern splashbacks

          • Reflect light and create a glossy finish

          • Larger tiles such as 600x600mm or 1200x600mm may increase fitting costs because they require precise levelling.
             
            How Much Does a Kitchen Splashback Cost to Install
             
            A splashback usually covers 2m² to 5m².
             
            Typical total cost for mid-range materials and fittings:
             
            £180 to £330
             
            Costs rise if you choose:

            • Mosaic tiles

            • Herringbone pattern

            • Chevron layout

            • Hexagon tiles

            • Extra cuts around plug sockets

            • Detailed patterns require more cutting and time, which increases labour fees.
               
              How Much Does It Cost to Tile a Kitchen Floor
               
              Floor tiling costs more than wall tiling.
               
              A medium kitchen floor of 10m² using porcelain tiles often costs:
               
              £1,000 to £1,300 in total
               
              Floor projects cost more because they require:

              • Stronger flexible adhesive

              • Floor levelling or screeding

              • Careful cutting around cabinets and islands

              • Heavy-duty grout

              • If you add underfloor heating, expect to pay an extra £100 to £150 per m².
                 
                What Extra Costs Should You Budget For
                 
                Tile Removal
                 
                Removing old tiles costs £20 to £40 per m².
                 
                Surface Preparation
                 
                Uneven floors may need a self-levelling compound.
                 
                Damaged walls may need plaster repair.
                 
                Adhesive and Grout
                 
                Tile adhesive and grout usually add £10 to £20 per m².
                 
                Epoxy grout costs more than cement grout but offers better stain resistance.
                 
                Sealant
                 
                Natural stone tiles need sealing to protect against moisture and grease.
                 
                Always ask for a full written quote that lists materials, labour and preparation work.
                 
                Do Layout and Tile Size Affect the Price
                 
                Yes. Layout choice has a direct effect on labour time.
                 
                A simple straight lay pattern is the fastest and most affordable option.
                 
                More complex layouts, such as:

                • Herringbone

                • Chevron

                • Brick bond

                • Basket weave

                • Mosaic sheets

                • These require extra cuts and careful alignment. Labour costs can rise sharply.
                   
                  Small tiles increase grout lines. Large-format tiles need a perfectly level surface.
                   
                  Should You Install Kitchen Tiles Yourself
                   
                  DIY tiling saves labour costs, but mistakes can be expensive.
                   
                  Professional tilers use tools such as:

                  • Wet saw

                  • Tile cutter

                  • Notched trowel

                  • Spirit level

                  • Tile spacers

                  • Poor installation may cause:

                    • Uneven surfaces

                    • Cracked porcelain tiles

                    • Loose grout

                    • Water damage behind walls

                    • Small ceramic splashbacks may suit confident DIYers. Large floor areas or natural stone usually require a skilled tiler.
                       
                      Final Example Cost Breakdown
                       
                      Example project:
                       
                      10m² kitchen floor
                       
                      Mid-range porcelain tiles at £40 per m²
                       
                      Tile cost: £400
                       
                      Labour at £50 per m²: £500
                       
                      Adhesive and grout: £150
                       
                      Total: Around £1,050
                       
                      Prices vary based on region, tile choice, layout and preparation work.