Tiling work is a fundamental part of many home renovation projects in Singapore, particularly in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, balconies, and living spaces. Whether you’re upgrading your flooring, creating a stylish backsplash, or renovating an entire room, tiling offers both functional and aesthetic benefits. But what exactly does tiling work involve, and what should homeowners in Singapore know before getting started? This guide breaks down the essentials of tiling work, the types of materials used, the process involved, and key considerations for planning a successful renovation.
What Is Tiling Work?
Tiling work refers to the installation of tiles—flat, thin pieces of material such as ceramic, porcelain, or stone—onto surfaces like floors, walls, and countertops. The primary purposes of tiling are to provide a durable surface, enhance the appearance of a space, and make maintenance easier.
Tiling is widely used in Singapore homes due to the country’s humid climate, where tiles offer moisture resistance and long-lasting performance. Tiling is common in:
- Bathrooms and toilets
- Kitchens and backsplashes
- Living room and bedroom floors
- Balconies and service yards
- Feature walls and accent surfaces
Types of Tiles Commonly Used in Singapore
Different tiles serve different purposes and aesthetics. Here are the most common types used in local renovations:
1. Ceramic Tiles
- Affordable and widely available
- Suitable for walls and light-traffic floor areas
- Comes in many colors and patterns
2. Porcelain Tiles
- Denser and more durable than ceramic
- Ideal for high-traffic floors and wet areas
- Water-resistant and easy to maintain
3. Homogeneous Tiles
- Made from a single material throughout
- Strong, stain-resistant, and ideal for both floors and walls
- Often used in kitchens and living rooms
4. Mosaic Tiles
- Small tiles mounted on sheets
- Popular for feature walls or decorative borders
- Common in bathroom niches and kitchen backsplashes
5. Natural Stone Tiles
- Includes marble, granite, slate, and travertine
- Luxurious appearance but requires sealing and maintenance
- Typically used in high-end designs
The Tiling Work Process
Tiling involves several important steps to ensure a neat finish and long-lasting result. Here’s an overview of the typical tiling process in a Singapore renovation:
1. Surface Preparation
- Existing flooring or wall coverings are removed
- The surface is cleaned and leveled
- Screeding or patching is done if required for a flat base
2. Tile Layout Planning
- Measurements are taken to determine the tile pattern and alignment
- Dry-laying (without adhesive) is done to visualize the layout
- Cutting plans are prepared to reduce visible grout lines and waste
3. Tile Installation
- Adhesive or mortar is spread evenly over the surface
- Tiles are laid one by one using spacers to maintain uniform gaps
- A spirit level ensures the tiles are flat and properly aligned
4. Tile Cutting
- Tiles are trimmed to fit edges and corners using tile cutters or grinders
- Cut tiles are placed in less visible areas to maintain a clean look
5. Grouting
- Once adhesive is set, grout is applied between tiles
- Excess grout is cleaned off, and the surface is wiped down
- Grout helps to seal joints and enhance water resistance
6. Curing and Finishing
- The tiles are left to cure for 24–48 hours
- The area is cleaned and polished, ready for use
Where Tiling Is Commonly Applied
Tiling is versatile and can be applied to various parts of a home. Common applications include:
- Bathroom floors and walls: Tiles are water-resistant and easy to clean.
- Kitchen backsplashes: Tiles protect walls from grease and moisture.
- Living and bedroom floors: Homogeneous tiles offer a sleek, modern look.
- Balconies: Textured tiles prevent slipping in wet conditions.
- Staircases: Tiling provides a durable and easy-to-maintain surface.
Why Homeowners Choose Tiling Work in Singapore
1. Durability
Tiles are known for their strength and longevity. They can withstand high foot traffic, moisture, and wear over time, making them a popular choice for both new and resale flats.
2. Low Maintenance
Tiles are easy to clean and require little upkeep. Spills, dirt, and grime can be quickly wiped away, which is ideal for families or busy homeowners.
3. Moisture Resistance
In Singapore’s humid environment, tiling offers excellent resistance to water and humidity, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and service yards.
4. Aesthetic Flexibility
Tiles come in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles—from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional—giving homeowners creative freedom in their interior design.
Considerations Before Starting Tiling Work
1. Tile Selection
Choose the right tile material for your space. For example, glossy ceramic tiles may not be suitable for bathroom floors due to slipperiness. Porcelain or textured tiles offer better grip.
2. Budgeting
Tiling costs can vary based on tile type, labor, and surface condition. Some tiles are inexpensive, while others (like marble or custom mosaics) can be significantly more expensive.
3. Hacking and Surface Preparation
If you’re replacing existing tiles, hacking will be necessary. This adds cost and time to the project and must be done by licensed contractors, especially in HDB flats.
4. Grouting and Maintenance
Consider the color and type of grout. Darker grout hides stains but can make small tiles look more segmented. Proper sealing is also needed for natural stone tiles.
5. Hiring Professionals
Always engage experienced tilers for quality workmanship. Poor tile alignment, uneven levels, or messy grout lines can ruin the final appearance and require costly corrections.
Estimated Cost of Tiling Work in Singapore
Tiling prices vary based on several factors, including material and area size. Here’s a rough estimate:
| Service | Estimated Price (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Tile supply (ceramic) | $2 – $5 per square foot |
| Tile supply (porcelain) | $4 – $8 per square foot |
| Tile installation (labor) | $4 – $7 per square foot |
| Hacking old tiles | $3 – $6 per square foot |
| Screeding or leveling | $1.50 – $3 per square foot |
| Grouting and sealing | Usually included in installation cost |
Prices will vary depending on job complexity, floor condition, and property type (HDB, condo, or landed home).
Conclusion
Tiling work is an essential element of any renovation project in Singapore, offering durability, easy maintenance, and endless design possibilities. Whether you’re upgrading your bathroom, revamping your kitchen, or redoing your entire floor, understanding the basics of tiling work helps you plan more effectively and avoid costly mistakes.
From selecting the right tiles to hiring qualified professionals, each step matters in ensuring a high-quality, long-lasting finish. With proper planning and execution, tiling work can significantly enhance the comfort, functionality, and aesthetics of your home.