Quick Answer: How Much Does Bathroom Tile Installation Cost in Seattle?
- 💰 Labor cost: $8-25 per square foot (varies by tile type and complexity)
- 🏗️ Material cost: $2-50 per square foot (ceramic to premium natural stone)
- 📐 Standard bathroom floor (40 sq ft): $1,200-3,000 installed
- 🚿 Shower surround (60-80 sq ft): $2,500-6,000 installed
- 🏠 Full bathroom tile-out: $4,000-15,000 depending on size and materials
- 📊 Seattle/Eastside average: $10-75 per sq ft total (labor + materials)
Prices based on 100+ bathroom tile installations across Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and Sammamish in 2025-2026.
Planning a bathroom tile project in Seattle or the Eastside? Here is what you will actually pay in 2026. After completing over 500 bathroom tile installations across King and Snohomish County, we have compiled the most accurate, up-to-date pricing data available for the greater Seattle area.
Bathroom tile installation costs in the Pacific Northwest run 10-20% higher than national averages due to our region's strict building codes, higher labor costs, and the critical importance of proper waterproofing in our wet climate. This guide breaks down every cost you will encounter, from materials and labor to the hidden expenses most contractors leave out of their initial quotes.
Whether you are renovating a half bath in Kirkland, upgrading a master shower in Bellevue, or doing a full bathroom tile-out in Sammamish, this guide gives you the real numbers you need to budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Complete Cost Guide Contents
Cost Breakdown by Tile Type
The type of tile you choose is the single biggest factor in your total project cost. Here is a detailed comparison of the four most popular bathroom tile materials we install across Seattle and the Eastside, with real 2026 pricing.
| Tile Type | Material / Sq Ft | Labor / Sq Ft | Total Installed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $2-8 | $8-12 | $10-20/sq ft | BEST VALUE |
| Porcelain | $5-15 | $10-18 | $15-33/sq ft | MOST POPULAR |
| Natural Stone | $15-50 | $15-25 | $30-75/sq ft | PREMIUM |
| Glass Mosaic | $10-35 | $18-25 | $28-60/sq ft | ACCENTS |
Ceramic Tile: $10-20/sq ft Installed
Ceramic tile remains the most budget-friendly option for Seattle bathrooms. It is manufactured from natural clay fired at lower temperatures than porcelain, making it easier to cut and install. For bathroom walls and light-traffic areas, ceramic delivers excellent value.
- Material range: $2-8 per square foot (basic solid colors to decorative patterns)
- Labor range: $8-12 per square foot (straightforward installation)
- Water absorption: 3-7% (acceptable for walls, less ideal for shower floors)
- Lifespan: 15-20 years in bathroom environments
- Best applications: Bathroom walls, half-bath floors, backsplashes
Porcelain Tile: $15-33/sq ft Installed
Porcelain is the tile of choice for Seattle and Eastside bathrooms, and for good reason. Fired at temperatures exceeding 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit, porcelain achieves a density that makes it nearly impervious to water. In our moisture-heavy Pacific Northwest climate, this matters enormously.
- Material range: $5-15 per square foot (ranges from basic to wood-look and marble-look)
- Labor range: $10-18 per square foot (harder material requires specialized cutting)
- Water absorption: Less than 0.5% (ideal for all wet areas)
- Lifespan: 25-30+ years in bathroom environments
- Best applications: Shower floors, shower walls, bathroom floors, all wet areas
💡 Pro Tip: Large-Format Porcelain Saves Money
Choosing larger porcelain tiles (12x24 or 24x24) reduces labor costs by 15-20% compared to small format tiles because there are fewer cuts and grout lines. Many Bellevue and Sammamish homeowners select large-format porcelain for a modern, clean look that also saves on installation labor.
Natural Stone Tile: $30-75/sq ft Installed
Marble, travertine, and slate bring unmatched luxury to bathrooms. Natural stone is the premium choice we install in high-end homes across Bellevue, Medina, and Sammamish. Each piece is unique, creating a one-of-a-kind bathroom that dramatically increases home value.
- Material range: $15-50 per square foot (travertine on the low end, marble and quartzite on the high end)
- Labor range: $15-25 per square foot (requires expert handling, precise cuts, and special sealants)
- Maintenance: Requires annual sealing ($2-4/sq ft) to prevent staining and moisture penetration
- Lifespan: 30-50+ years with proper maintenance
- Best applications: Master bath floors, shower feature walls, vanity surrounds
Glass Mosaic Tile: $28-60/sq ft Installed
Glass mosaic tiles are most commonly used as accents rather than full-wall coverings. A glass mosaic accent strip in a shower or a niche lined with iridescent glass tiles can elevate an entire bathroom. Installation requires specialized skills because glass is unforgiving with cuts and adhesive choices.
- Material range: $10-35 per square foot (basic glass sheets to hand-blown artisan mosaics)
- Labor range: $18-25 per square foot (precision work, specialty adhesives required)
- Maintenance: Low maintenance; glass is naturally waterproof and stain-resistant
- Lifespan: 20-30 years (susceptible to chipping from impact)
- Best applications: Shower niches, accent strips, feature walls, backsplashes
📊 Seattle Market Insight:
Based on our 2025-2026 project data, 62% of Seattle and Eastside homeowners choose porcelain tile for their bathroom renovations. Ceramic accounts for 20%, natural stone for 12%, and glass mosaic for 6% (typically as accents combined with porcelain). The trend toward large-format porcelain tiles that mimic marble or wood continues to grow.
Room-by-Room Pricing for Seattle & Eastside Bathrooms
Bathroom size and scope of work dramatically affect your total cost. Here is what homeowners across the Seattle metro area are actually paying for different bathroom configurations in 2026.
Half Bath / Powder Room
$1,500-4,000Floor tile only, typically 20-35 sq ft. No shower or tub. The simplest bathroom tile job.
Typical Scope:
- Floor tile: 20-35 sq ft
- Optional wall accent: 10-15 sq ft
- Timeline: 1-2 days
- Most popular tile: Porcelain or ceramic
Standard Full Bathroom
$4,000-9,000Floor plus tub/shower surround. The most common bathroom tile project in Seattle. Typically 80-120 sq ft total tile area.
Typical Scope:
- Floor tile: 35-50 sq ft
- Tub/shower surround: 45-70 sq ft
- Timeline: 3-5 days
- Most popular tile: Porcelain throughout
Master Bathroom
$7,000-15,000Large walk-in shower, double vanity area, full floor. Often includes niches, benches, and accent tile. 120-200+ sq ft total.
Typical Scope:
- Floor tile: 60-100 sq ft
- Walk-in shower: 60-100+ sq ft
- Accent features: niches, benches, borders
- Timeline: 5-7 days
Shower-Only Retile
$2,500-6,000Removing old shower tile and installing new. Includes waterproofing. Most common remodel project we handle. 50-80 sq ft.
Typical Scope:
- Shower walls: 45-70 sq ft
- Shower floor: 6-12 sq ft
- Includes waterproofing membrane
- Timeline: 3-4 days
| Room Type | Tile Area | Ceramic Budget | Porcelain Mid-Range | Stone Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Half Bath Floor | 20-35 sq ft | $400-700 | $600-1,150 | $900-2,600 |
| Standard Bath Floor | 35-50 sq ft | $700-1,000 | $1,050-1,650 | $1,575-3,750 |
| Tub Surround | 45-65 sq ft | $900-1,300 | $1,350-2,145 | $2,025-4,875 |
| Walk-In Shower | 60-100 sq ft | $1,200-2,000 | $1,800-3,300 | $2,700-7,500 |
| Master Bath (Full) | 120-200 sq ft | $2,400-4,000 | $3,600-6,600 | $5,400-15,000 |
📊 Eastside vs Seattle Pricing Note:
Tile installation costs in Bellevue, Sammamish, and Medina typically run 10-15% higher than Seattle proper due to higher demand for premium finishes and more complex design requests. Redmond and Kirkland fall in between. Our pricing remains consistent across all service areas because we are based in Everett and efficiently serve the entire region.
Hidden Costs Most Quotes Don't Include
This is where homeowners get blindsided. Many tile installation quotes advertise only the tile-and-labor price, leaving out critical preparation and finishing costs that can add $1,500 to $4,000 or more to your project. Here is every hidden cost you should ask about before signing a contract.
⚠️ Critical Warning: Get an All-Inclusive Quote
The number one complaint we hear from homeowners who used other contractors is "the final bill was $3,000 more than the quote." Always demand an all-inclusive written estimate that covers every item below. Any contractor who cannot provide one is not someone you want in your bathroom.
1. Demolition & Old Tile Removal: $2-5/sq ft
Removing existing tile is labor-intensive and messy work. The cost depends on the existing material, how well it was adhered, and whether the substrate underneath is salvageable. Expect $150-500 for a standard shower and $200-600 for a full bathroom floor. Some contractors charge by the hour ($50-80/hour) rather than by square foot.
2. Backer Board Installation: $3-6/sq ft
Cement backer board (such as Hardiebacker or Durock) is required behind all shower and tub tile installations. It provides a waterproof, stable surface that drywall cannot. For a typical shower, backer board adds $200-450 to the project. This is non-negotiable for any professional installation, and any contractor who tiles directly over drywall in a wet area is cutting a dangerous corner.
3. Waterproofing Membrane: $2-4/sq ft
In Seattle's moisture-heavy climate, proper waterproofing is not optional. Systems like Schluter-DITRA, RedGard, or Laticrete Hydro Ban create a continuous waterproof barrier behind your tile. For a shower, this adds $150-350 to the project. For a full bathroom, expect $300-600. This is arguably the most important step in the entire installation.
4. Subfloor Leveling & Repair: $3-8/sq ft
Tile requires a perfectly flat surface. If your subfloor has dips, humps, or damage, it must be leveled with self-leveling compound or repaired with new plywood before tile goes down. This is discovered during demolition and can add $300-800 to a bathroom floor project. Older homes in Seattle (especially those built before 1970) frequently need subfloor work.
5. Trim Pieces & Bullnose: $8-20/linear foot
The finished edges where tile meets wall, ceiling, or other surfaces require trim pieces. Schluter metal edge trim runs $4-8 per linear foot for materials. Bullnose tile (if available for your tile) costs $8-20 per linear foot installed. A standard shower has 20-30 linear feet of edges to finish. Budget $200-500 for trim in a typical shower project.
6. Disposal & Cleanup Fees: $150-400
Old tile, backer board, thinset, and grout are heavy. Disposal fees depend on volume, but a standard bathroom generates 500-1,000 pounds of waste. Most contractors charge $150-400 for disposal, or it may be bundled into the demolition cost. Always confirm whether disposal is included in your quote.
7. Grout Sealing: $1-2/sq ft
After grout cures (typically 48-72 hours after installation), it should be sealed to prevent moisture penetration and staining. For a standard bathroom, grout sealing adds $100-250. Some contractors include this; many do not. Ask specifically.
| Hidden Cost Item | Cost Per Sq Ft | Typical Shower | Full Bathroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition / Removal | $2-5 | $150-400 | $300-750 |
| Backer Board | $3-6 | $200-450 | $350-700 |
| Waterproofing | $2-4 | $150-350 | $300-600 |
| Subfloor Leveling | $3-8 | N/A | $300-800 |
| Trim & Bullnose | $8-20/lin ft | $200-500 | $300-700 |
| Disposal & Cleanup | Flat fee | $150-300 | $200-400 |
| Grout Sealing | $1-2 | $75-150 | $100-250 |
💡 Money-Saving Tip:
When getting quotes, always ask: "Is this an all-inclusive price, or are demolition, waterproofing, backer board, trim, and disposal extra?" A legitimate contractor will provide a detailed line-item estimate. At Precision Tile & Grout, every quote we provide includes all preparation, materials, labor, and cleanup so you know exactly what you are paying before work begins.
Get an Honest, All-Inclusive Tile Installation Quote
No hidden fees, no surprise charges. We provide detailed line-item estimates for every bathroom tile project across Seattle and the Eastside.
Get Your Free EstimateChoosing the Right Tile for Pacific Northwest Bathrooms
Seattle receives an average of 152 rainy days per year. That persistent moisture does not stay outside. It permeates homes through ventilation, open windows, and daily activities like showering. Your bathroom tile selection must account for this reality. The wrong choice leads to mold growth, delamination, and costly repairs within just a few years.
Why Moisture Matters More in Seattle Than Most Cities
The Pacific Northwest's combination of high outdoor humidity (averaging 73-83% year-round), moderate temperatures, and frequent rain creates a unique challenge for bathroom surfaces. Unlike dry-climate cities where bathroom moisture evaporates quickly between uses, Seattle bathrooms often struggle to fully dry out. This means your tile, grout, and substrate are under constant moisture stress.
- Average indoor humidity in Seattle homes: 50-65% (compared to 30-40% in arid climates)
- Days per year with measurable rainfall: 152
- Average bathroom drying time after shower: 4-6 hours (versus 1-2 hours in dry climates)
- Mold growth risk: Significantly higher than national average
Porcelain vs Ceramic: The Seattle Decision
For most Seattle and Eastside bathrooms, porcelain is the superior choice despite its higher upfront cost. Here is why:
📊 Our Recommendation for Seattle Bathrooms:
- Shower floors and walls: Always use porcelain (water absorption under 0.5% is critical)
- Bathroom floors: Porcelain preferred; ceramic acceptable with proper sealing
- Half-bath walls: Ceramic is fine (minimal moisture exposure)
- Accent features: Glass mosaic for niches and borders; natural stone for vanity areas
Tile Size Considerations for Seattle Bathrooms
Tile size affects both aesthetics and cost. Larger tiles mean fewer grout lines, which means fewer potential entry points for moisture. This is especially valuable in our wet climate.
- Small mosaic (1x1 to 2x2): Best for shower floors (needed for drain slope) and accents. Higher labor cost due to alignment requirements.
- Medium (4x4, 6x6, 4x12 subway): Classic look for shower walls. Subway tile remains the most requested pattern in Seattle.
- Large format (12x24, 24x24): Modern, clean look with fewer grout lines. Saves on labor but requires perfectly flat surfaces. Growing in popularity across Bellevue and Eastside homes.
- Oversized (32x32+): Dramatic look, fewest grout lines. Requires specialized handling and additional labor. Popular in luxury Sammamish and Medina projects.
💡 Grout Matters as Much as Tile in Seattle:
In our climate, always specify epoxy grout for shower installations. Standard cement grout is porous and absorbs moisture, leading to mold and discoloration within 1-2 years. Epoxy grout costs $1-2 more per square foot but is waterproof, stain-proof, and never needs sealing. Over a 10-year period, epoxy grout saves hundreds in maintenance costs.
Installation Timeline & What to Expect
Understanding the installation timeline helps you plan for bathroom downtime. Here is a day-by-day breakdown of a typical full bathroom tile installation in the Seattle area. The timeline assumes a standard bathroom with floor tile and a shower surround.
Existing tile, drywall (in shower area), and damaged substrate are removed. The work area is covered with protective plastic. Expect noise and dust. The bathroom will be completely unusable starting today.
- Remove existing tile and adhesive
- Inspect subfloor and wall framing for damage
- Repair any rotted wood or damaged framing
- Haul away debris
Cement backer board is installed on shower walls and any areas receiving tile. The waterproofing membrane is applied to all wet-area surfaces. This is the most critical step for long-term performance.
- Install cement backer board on walls and floor
- Apply waterproofing membrane (RedGard, Kerdi, etc.)
- Level floor with self-leveling compound if needed
- Allow waterproofing to cure (typically overnight)
Tile installation begins, typically starting with the shower walls, then the shower floor, then the bathroom floor. This is the most visible and exciting phase of the project.
- Layout planning and dry-fit of tile pattern
- Set wall tiles with thinset mortar
- Install shower floor tile (slope to drain verified)
- Set bathroom floor tiles
- Install trim, edge pieces, and bullnose
- Install niches, shelves, and bench tile (if applicable)
After tile adhesive has cured for 24 hours, grout is applied to all joints. Caulk is applied at all change-of-plane transitions (where walls meet floors, corners, around fixtures).
- Mix and apply grout to all tile joints
- Clean excess grout from tile surfaces
- Apply silicone caulk at all transitions and corners
- Initial cleanup of the work area
Grout needs 48-72 hours to fully cure before the shower can be used. During this time, grout sealing is applied (if using cement grout), final cleanup is completed, and a walkthrough inspection is performed.
- Grout curing period (no water exposure)
- Apply grout sealer (for cement grout)
- Final cleanup and debris removal
- Client walkthrough and inspection
- Bathroom is ready for use
⚠️ Important: Plan for Bathroom Downtime
Your bathroom will be completely unusable for 5-7 days during a full tile installation. If you only have one bathroom, arrange alternative facilities. For shower-only projects, the shower is unusable for 4-5 days but the toilet and sink typically remain accessible. Discuss logistics with your installer before the project begins.
Factors That Extend the Timeline
- Subfloor repair or replacement: Adds 1-2 days
- Complex tile patterns (herringbone, chevron): Adds 1 day
- Natural stone installation: Adds 1 day (sealing and extra precision cuts)
- Custom niches and bench construction: Adds 0.5-1 day
- Heated floor installation: Adds 0.5-1 day
- Plumbing modifications: Adds 0.5-1 day (coordinating with plumber)
DIY vs Professional Tile Installation: The Real Cost Comparison
Can you save money by installing bathroom tile yourself? Potentially, yes. But the risks in a wet environment are substantial. Here is an honest comparison.
⚠️ The Hidden Cost of DIY Bathroom Tile Failure
A failed DIY waterproofing job in a shower is the most expensive bathroom mistake a homeowner can make. Water leaking behind improperly installed tile causes mold growth, structural rot, and damage to adjacent rooms. Remediation costs range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. We receive 3-5 calls per month from Seattle homeowners who need professional tear-out and reinstallation of DIY tile work that failed within the first 1-3 years.
When to DIY vs Hire a Professional
💡 Smart Compromise: DIY + Pro Hybrid Approach
Some homeowners save money by handling demolition themselves and hiring a professional for substrate preparation, waterproofing, and tile installation. Removing old tile is straightforward (wear proper safety gear and eye protection) and saves $200-600 in labor costs. Just be careful not to damage the underlying framing or plumbing.
How to Choose a Tile Installer in Seattle & the Eastside
The quality of installation matters more than the tile you choose. A beautifully selected tile installed poorly will fail within a few years. Here is what to look for when hiring a tile contractor in the Seattle metro area.
Must-Have Qualifications:
- Washington State contractor's license - Verify at L&I Contractor Verification
- General liability insurance - Minimum $1 million coverage
- Workers' compensation insurance - Required by WA state law
- Surety bond - Protects you if the contractor fails to complete work
- Proven bathroom tile experience - Ask for 5+ bathroom-specific references
- Waterproofing expertise - Ask which systems they use and certifications they hold
Red Flags to Watch For:
- No written contract or vague estimates
- Demands full payment upfront (standard is 10-30% deposit)
- Cannot provide license number or proof of insurance
- No photos of previous bathroom work
- Plans to tile directly over drywall in wet areas
- Does not mention waterproofing in their scope of work
- Significantly lower price than all other quotes (often means corners will be cut)
📋 About Precision Tile & Grout LLC:
We are a licensed and insured tile contractor (License #PRECITG780BQ) serving Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Sammamish, and the entire King and Snohomish County region. Every bathroom tile installation includes comprehensive waterproofing, cement backer board, and a detailed written warranty. We provide all-inclusive quotes with no hidden fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does bathroom tile installation cost in Seattle in 2026?
In 2026, bathroom tile installation in Seattle costs $10-75 per square foot total (labor + materials). Labor alone runs $8-25 per square foot depending on tile type and complexity. A standard 40 sq ft bathroom floor costs $1,200-3,000 installed. Shower surrounds run $2,500-6,000. Full bathroom tile-outs range from $4,000-15,000 depending on size, tile selection, and scope of work.
What is the cheapest tile to install in a bathroom?
Ceramic tile is the most affordable option for Seattle bathrooms at $2-8 per square foot for materials plus $8-12 per square foot for labor, totaling $10-20 per square foot installed. Ceramic works well for bathroom walls and low-traffic areas. However, for shower floors and high-moisture areas, we recommend investing in porcelain ($15-33/sq ft installed) due to its superior water resistance in the Pacific Northwest climate.
How long does it take to tile a bathroom in Seattle?
A typical bathroom tile installation takes 3-7 days depending on scope. A basic floor tile replacement takes 2-3 days. A full shower surround takes 4-5 days. A complete bathroom tile-out (floor, walls, and shower) takes 5-7 days. Add 1-2 days for demolition and subfloor prep if needed. The bathroom will be completely unusable during the tile and grout curing phase.
Is porcelain or ceramic tile better for Seattle bathrooms?
Porcelain tile is the better choice for Seattle bathrooms due to its significantly lower water absorption rate (less than 0.5% compared to 3-7% for ceramic). In our moisture-heavy Pacific Northwest climate, this difference is critical. Porcelain costs more upfront at $15-33 per square foot installed versus $10-20 for ceramic, but it lasts 25-30+ years compared to 15-20 years for ceramic in wet environments. For shower installations specifically, porcelain is strongly recommended.
What hidden costs should I expect with bathroom tile installation?
Common hidden costs include demolition and old tile removal ($2-5/sq ft), backer board installation ($3-6/sq ft), waterproofing membrane ($2-4/sq ft), trim pieces and bullnose ($8-20 per linear foot), disposal fees ($150-400), and subfloor leveling if needed ($3-8/sq ft). These extras typically add $1,500-4,000 to a full bathroom project. Always request an all-inclusive written estimate before hiring a contractor.
Should I DIY bathroom tile installation or hire a professional?
Professional installation is strongly recommended for any wet-area tile work (showers, tub surrounds) because waterproofing failures are extremely costly. A failed DIY waterproofing job can cause $5,000-15,000 in water damage. DIY is acceptable for simple dry-area projects like a half-bath floor or kitchen backsplash. If you DIY, stick to simple floor tiles and hire a professional for all shower and tub work.
How much does a shower tile installation cost in Bellevue?
Shower tile installation in Bellevue costs $2,500-8,000 depending on size and tile selection. A standard 3x5 shower surround runs $2,500-4,500 with porcelain tile. A walk-in shower with bench, niche, and glass mosaic accents costs $4,000-8,000. Natural stone showers range from $5,000-10,000+. Bellevue prices tend to run 10-15% above Seattle averages due to higher demand for premium finishes. All prices include waterproofing, backer board, tile, grout, and labor.
Do tile installation costs vary across Seattle, Bellevue, and the Eastside?
Yes, prices vary by 10-20% across the region. Bellevue and Sammamish tend to run 10-15% higher than Seattle averages due to higher operating costs and demand for premium finishes. Redmond and Kirkland fall in the mid-range. All Eastside cities run slightly higher than Seattle proper. At Precision Tile & Grout, our pricing is consistent across all service areas since we are centrally located and serve the entire region efficiently.
The Bottom Line on Bathroom Tile Installation Costs in Seattle
A well-planned bathroom tile installation is one of the best investments you can make in your Seattle or Eastside home. Tiled bathrooms return 60-70% of their cost at resale and last decades when properly installed.
For budget-conscious homeowners, a ceramic tile bathroom floor and porcelain shower surround delivers excellent value at $4,000-7,000 for a standard bathroom. For those seeking a premium result, porcelain throughout with natural stone or glass accents creates a spa-like retreat for $8,000-15,000.
The most important factor is not the tile you choose but the quality of installation behind it. Proper waterproofing, correct substrate preparation, and professional-grade materials ensure your new bathroom tile lasts 20-30 years without issues. In Seattle's wet climate, cutting corners on installation is the most expensive mistake you can make.
💡 Final Advice for Seattle Homeowners:
Get at least three written quotes from licensed contractors. Compare them line-by-line to ensure each covers demolition, substrate preparation, waterproofing, tile installation, grout, trim, and cleanup. The lowest quote is not always the best value. A properly waterproofed and installed bathroom saves thousands in avoided repairs over the next decade.