Working in metric (m, m², m³)
UK tiles are sized in millimetres or centimetres — common sizes: 100×100, 200×250, 250×400, 300×600, 600×600 mm. Boxes typically cover 1.0–1.5 m². Always measure room area in m² (length × width for floor; perimeter × height − openings for walls), then add 10–15% waste. For diagonal or herringbone patterns, add 15–20%. Trim tiles (border, edge) are sold per linear metre.
VAT and pricing conventions
Topps Tiles, Tile Giant, Wickes, and B&Q quote retail inc-VAT. Independent and trade tile suppliers (CTD, Stone & Tiles Direct, Mandarin Stone) typically have ex-VAT trade pricing 15–30% below high-street retail. Tilers themselves usually quote inc-VAT for full jobs but ex-VAT for hourly day rates — always confirm.
Regional variation across the UK
London tilers charge £45–£80/m² turnkey vs £30–£50/m² in the Midlands and Yorkshire. Tile material prices vary little by region (5–10%); labour is the regional driver. Self-employed tilers in the North/Wales work £160–£220/day; London £220–£320/day; experienced specialist (large-format porcelain, marble) £300–£450/day.
Common UK project sizes
| Project | Dimensions | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Bathroom walls (2 × 2.5 m × 2.4 m) | ~22 m² wall | £330–£770 tiles · £660–£1,540 labour · £1,100–£2,500 turnkey |
| Bathroom floor (2 × 2.5 m) | 5 m² | £100–£300 tiles · £150–£300 labour · £350–£700 turnkey |
| Kitchen splashback (4 × 0.6 m) | 2.4 m² | £40–£140 tiles · £80–£200 labour · £150–£400 turnkey |
| Open-plan kitchen floor (5 × 6 m) | 30 m² | £600–£1,800 tiles · £900–£1,800 labour · £1,800–£4,200 turnkey |
| Hallway (1.5 × 8 m) | 12 m² | £240–£720 tiles · £360–£720 labour · £700–£1,650 turnkey |