How much does it cost to add decorative tiles in laundry renovations? (Laundry Room | Costs, Budgeting & Planning)

Decorative tiles are one of the simplest ways to elevate a laundry from purely functional to stylish and practical. In Sydney, homeowners from compact city apartments in Surry Hills to heritage terraces in Balmain and family homes in Castle Hill are increasingly investing in tiled laundry walls, splashbacks, and flooring to create a space that is both durable and visually appealing.

A common question we receive at MB9 Australia Pty Ltd is: “How much does it cost to add decorative tiles in a laundry renovation?” This guide will break down the costs, factors affecting pricing, Sydney-specific insights, and budgeting strategies to help you plan your project effectively.

Why Decorative Tiles Are a Smart Investment in Laundry Renovations

While some homeowners may underestimate the impact of tiles in a laundry, they provide a range of practical and aesthetic benefits:

• Moisture Protection: Tiles protect walls and floors from water, detergent spills, and dampness.

• Durability: High-quality tiles resist wear, stains, and everyday laundry activity.

• Easy Maintenance: Smooth, non-porous surfaces simplify cleaning and reduce mold growth.

• Visual Appeal: Decorative patterns, mosaics, or textured tiles create a stylish, modern feel.

• Property Value: Well-designed laundries with tiled surfaces enhance resale value, particularly in Sydney’s competitive housing market.

In Mosman or Neutral Bay, premium tiles are a common feature in high-end laundries, while practical, contemporary tiles are often selected for Redfern or Marrickville apartments, reflecting both lifestyle and budget considerations.

Factors That Affect Decorative Tile Costs in Sydney Laundries

The overall cost of adding decorative tiles depends on multiple variables, including material choice, size of the tiled area, installation complexity, and local Sydney factors.

1. Tile Material

Tile material significantly impacts cost:

• Ceramic Tiles: $40–$120 per m² – Durable and cost-effective, suitable for walls or floors.

• Porcelain Tiles: $60–$200 per m² – Hard-wearing and moisture-resistant, ideal for high-traffic laundries.

• Glass or Mosaic Tiles: $120–$350 per m² – Adds visual flair for feature walls or splashbacks.

• Natural Stone (Marble, Granite): $200–$500 per m² – High-end, luxurious, and durable, commonly used in suburbs like Mosman or Balmain.

Local Tip: Coastal homes in Bondi, Coogee, or Manly benefit from moisture-resistant and salt-tolerant tiles to prevent degradation from humidity and salty air.

2. Installation Complexity

Labour for tile installation is influenced by pattern complexity, cutting requirements, and wall/floor preparation:

• Standard wall or floor tiling: $50–$120 per m²

• Intricate patterns or mosaics: $120–$250 per m²

• Feature walls or tiled niches: $150–$400 per area

Older properties, especially heritage homes in Paddington or Balmain, may require extra preparation due to uneven walls or floors, increasing installation costs.

3. Size of the Tiled Area

The total area you intend to tile directly affects the cost. Examples for Sydney laundries:

• Small laundry (1.5–2m²): $1,000–$3,500

• Medium laundry (2–4m²): $2,500–$6,500

• Large laundry (4–6m²+): $5,000–$10,000

Even small areas, such as splashbacks behind the laundry trough, can create a high-impact visual upgrade at a relatively modest cost.

4. Tile Finishes and Features

Custom finishes and decorative elements add to the cost:

• Textured tiles or patterned designs: $50–$150 per m² extra

• Feature borders or inlays: $100–$400 per project

• Waterproofing membrane under tiles: $30–$80 per m²

• Grout colour choices: Minor cost, but affects aesthetics significantly

Pro Tip: In high-humidity areas like Eastern Suburbs or coastal suburbs, ensure a professional waterproof membrane is installed to extend tile lifespan and prevent mold growth.

5. Labour and Additional Considerations

Professional installation ensures level, even, and secure tiling, which is crucial for both appearance and durability:

• Basic installation: $50–$120 per m²

• Complex patterns or small tiles: $100–$250 per m²

• Additional labour for levelling, wall prep, or trimming: $500–$1,500 depending on project scope

DIY tiling is possible but may result in uneven surfaces or leaks, particularly in apartments or older homes where walls and floors are not perfectly straight.

6. Sydney Suburb-Specific Cost Insights

Suburb Typical Decorative Tile Cost Notes Mosman / Neutral Bay $5,000–$12,000 Premium natural stone and designer tiles; high labour costs Balmain / Leichhardt $4,000–$10,000 Heritage terraces often require careful wall prep and moisture protection Surry Hills / Redfern $3,000–$7,500 Compact apartments; modern, practical tiles preferred Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee) $4,500–$11,000 Coastal conditions require moisture-resistant tiles and finishes Castle Hill / Hornsby $5,000–$12,000 Larger laundries; space for full-length splashbacks and feature tiling

Hiring a local Sydney renovation company like MB9 Australia ensures access to the best materials, reliable trades, and designs tailored to your suburb and building type.

Budgeting Tips for Decorative Tiles in Laundry Renovations

1. Factor in All Costs: Tiles, adhesive, labour, waterproofing, grout, and minor wall/floor prep.

2. Prioritise Moisture Resistance: Particularly important in Sydney coastal areas and older properties.

3. Coordinate With Existing Finishes: Match laundry tiles with cabinetry, benchtops, or even kitchen flooring for a cohesive look.

4. Consider Long-Term Maintenance: Choose tiles that are easy to clean and resistant to staining or chipping.

5. Mix Practicality and Style: Feature walls or splashbacks can be decorative, while flooring tiles remain durable and low-maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are decorative tiles worth the cost?

Yes. They protect surfaces, improve durability, simplify cleaning, and create a stylish laundry that increases property appeal—particularly in premium Sydney suburbs.

Q2: Can small laundries benefit from decorative tiles?

Absolutely. Even a tiled splashback behind a laundry trough or a patterned feature wall can dramatically enhance a compact space.

Q3: How long does tiling take?

A medium-sized laundry typically takes 1–2 weeks for wall and floor tiling, with additional time for feature tiles or intricate patterns.

Q4: Can I mix tile types for effect?

Yes. Combining textures, colours, or mosaic inlays with standard tiles creates visual interest while maintaining practicality.

Q5: Do I need council approval?

Internal decorative tiling generally does not require council approval. Structural modifications, waterproofing changes, or electrical/plumbing work may need permits, especially in heritage homes.

Summary: Decorative Tile Costs for Sydney Laundries

Installing decorative tiles in a Sydney laundry typically ranges from $3,000 to $12,000, depending on size, materials, complexity, and location. From compact city apartments in Surry Hills or Redfern to heritage terraces in Balmain or family homes in Castle Hill, high-quality tiling enhances functionality, aesthetics, and property value.

With professional installation and careful material selection, your laundry can become a stylish, practical, and durable space.

For expert kitchen, bathroom, and house renovation services in Sydney—including decorative tiles, benchtops, cabinetry, and full laundry renovations—visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more information from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.