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Tile installation in Ottawa typically costs $10 to $25 per square foot installed for standard ceramic or porcelain tile, including materials and labour. Large-format tiles, natural stone, or complex pattern layouts (herringbone, diagonal) carry a premium. A standard bathroom tile job including floor and shower walls might cost $2,500 to $7,000 total. Always confirm what is included in the quote.
Porcelain tile is the most popular choice for Canadian bathrooms due to its low porosity, durability, and resistance to moisture and temperature changes. Large-format porcelain (24x24 inches or larger) has become a popular design choice. Natural stone such as marble and travertine requires sealing and more maintenance. Ceramic tile is an economical option for lower-traffic areas.
A standard bathroom floor tile installation takes one to two days. A full shower or tub surround tiling takes two to four days including prep, setting, grout, and sealant. Large format tiles in an open-concept kitchen or living area can take three to five days. Allow an additional 24 to 72 hours before walking on floor tiles or using a tiled shower after grout and sealant cure.
Substrate preparation is the foundation of a lasting tile job. The surface must be flat, structurally sound, and free of flex. Deflection (movement) in a floor or wall will crack grout joints and eventually tiles. A qualified tile installer will assess the substrate and add cement board, uncoupling membrane, or other underlayment as needed before setting a single tile.
Ask to see photos of completed work and look for clean, consistent grout joints and precise cuts around fixtures and doorways. Ask how the installer handles substrate preparation and what products they use for waterproofing in wet areas. A written quote specifying the tile product, layout, grout colour, and waterproofing method protects both you and the installer.
