How Much Does It Cost To Retile A Shower?

AvatarByColleen Barnes Shower Routine & Lifestyle

Retiling a shower is a popular home improvement project that can dramatically transform the look and feel of your bathroom. Whether you’re aiming to update outdated tiles, fix damaged surfaces, or simply refresh your space with a new design, understanding the costs involved is a crucial first step. Many homeowners wonder, “How much is it to retile a shower?”—a question that encompasses a variety of factors and considerations.

The price of retiling a shower can vary widely depending on the size of the shower, the type of tiles chosen, labor costs, and any additional work required such as waterproofing or repairs. It’s not just about the tiles themselves; preparation, removal of old materials, and finishing touches all contribute to the overall expense. Knowing what influences the cost can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions.

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to recognize that retiling is both an investment in your home’s value and your personal comfort. Whether you plan to hire professionals or tackle the project yourself, having a clear picture of potential costs will set realistic expectations and ensure your renovation goes smoothly. In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the key factors that determine the price of retiling a shower and offer insights to guide your planning process.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Retiling a Shower

Several variables influence the overall cost of retiling a shower, making it essential to understand these elements before budgeting the project. The price can vary significantly depending on the following factors:

  • Size of the Shower Area: Larger showers require more tiles and labor, increasing material and installation costs.
  • Tile Material: Ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone tiles all have different price points. For example, natural stone tends to be more expensive and may require specialized installation.
  • Labor Costs: Labor rates differ based on location, complexity of the job, and the experience level of the contractor.
  • Preparation Work: Removing old tiles, repairing or waterproofing the substrate, and surface preparation can add to the cost.
  • Tile Pattern and Layout: Complex designs like mosaics or herringbone patterns require more time and expertise, increasing labor costs.
  • Additional Features: Incorporating niches, benches, or custom trims will also affect the price.

Understanding these factors helps in planning an accurate budget and ensures realistic expectations for the project scope.

Cost Breakdown of Retiling a Shower

The total expense of retiling a shower typically combines material costs, labor fees, and other associated expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown:

Cost Component Typical Price Range Details
Tile Materials $2 to $20+ per sq. ft. Varies by tile type: ceramic is cheapest, natural stone and glass are pricier
Labor $40 to $100+ per hour Depends on region, complexity, and contractor skill level
Old Tile Removal $300 to $800 Can be more if tiles are difficult to remove or if substrate damage is found
Surface Preparation & Waterproofing $200 to $600 Includes repairs, waterproof membranes, and backer board installation
Additional Features $100 to $500+ Niches, benches, custom borders, or decorative tile inserts

These figures provide a general guideline but can vary widely based on the specific project details.

Estimating Average Project Costs

For a standard shower retile, measuring approximately 36 square feet, the total cost typically falls within a certain range depending on tile choice and labor rates:

  • Budget Option (ceramic tile, basic labor, minimal prep): $1,000 to $1,800
  • Mid-Range (porcelain tile, moderate labor, some prep work): $1,800 to $3,000
  • High-End (natural stone or designer tile, expert labor, extensive prep): $3,000 to $5,000+

These estimates include tile removal, surface prep, tile purchase, and installation. Custom work or larger showers will push costs higher.

Tips for Managing Retiling Costs

To control expenses while ensuring quality, consider the following strategies:

  • Choose Tile Wisely: Opt for durable but cost-effective materials like ceramic or porcelain if budget is tight.
  • Get Multiple Quotes: Compare estimates from several contractors to find competitive pricing and scope clarity.
  • Prepare the Surface Yourself: If feasible, removing old tiles or repairing the substrate before professional installation can reduce labor hours.
  • Limit Customization: Simplify tile patterns and avoid additional features unless necessary.
  • Plan for Contingencies: Set aside 10-20% extra budget to accommodate unexpected repairs or material price changes.

Taking these steps can help balance cost and quality to achieve a successful retiling project within your budget.

Factors Influencing the Cost to Retile a Shower

Retiling a shower involves several variables that significantly impact the overall cost. Understanding these factors can help homeowners budget accurately and select the most appropriate materials and labor options.

Materials: The choice of tile is one of the most critical determinants of cost. Tiles vary widely in price depending on their material, size, design, and brand.

  • Ceramic Tiles: Generally the most affordable option, ranging from $1 to $5 per square foot.
  • Porcelain Tiles: More durable and water-resistant, usually priced between $3 and $10 per square foot.
  • Natural Stone Tiles: Includes marble, granite, and travertine; premium options that can cost from $7 to $30 or more per square foot.
  • Glass Tiles: Often used for decorative accents, costing approximately $10 to $30 per square foot.

Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by region and complexity of the job. Skilled tile installers typically charge between $40 and $100 per hour or $5 to $15 per square foot.

  • Complex patterns, mosaics, or custom layouts increase labor time and cost.
  • Preparation work such as removing old tiles or repairing the substrate adds to labor expenses.
  • Additional plumbing or waterproofing requirements can also raise costs.

Shower Size and Configuration: Larger showers require more tiles and labor, naturally increasing the price. Additionally, showers with multiple niches, benches, or intricate angles require more precise work.

Additional Materials and Supplies: These include mortar, grout, waterproofing membranes, backer board, sealants, and trim pieces. These materials typically add 10-20% to the tile material cost.

Cost Component Typical Price Range Notes
Tile Material $1 – $30+ per sq. ft. Depends on type and quality
Labor $5 – $15 per sq. ft. Varies by complexity and location
Preparation & Demolition $200 – $600 Removal of old tiles and substrate repair
Waterproofing & Materials $100 – $300 Membranes, backer board, grout, sealants

Estimated Price Ranges for Retiling a Shower

The total cost to retile a shower varies widely but generally falls within these price brackets based on shower size and tile choice:

Shower Size Basic Ceramic Tiles Mid-Range Porcelain Tiles High-End Natural Stone Tiles
Small Shower (30-40 sq. ft.) $700 – $1,500 $1,000 – $2,200 $2,000 – $4,500
Medium Shower (50-70 sq. ft.) $1,200 – $2,500 $1,700 – $3,500 $3,500 – $6,500
Large Shower (80-100 sq. ft.) $1,800 – $3,500 $2,500 – $5,000 $5,000 – $9,000+

These estimates include tile, labor, removal of old tile, and basic waterproofing. Custom designs, high-end finishes, or additional shower features will increase costs accordingly.

Additional Considerations Impacting Retiling Costs

Removal of Existing Tile: If the existing tiles are adhered firmly or the substrate is damaged, removal can be labor-intensive and costly. In some cases, leaving the old tile as a base is possible but requires professional assessment.

Waterproofing and Substrate Repair: Proper waterproofing is critical to prevent future water damage. Installing a waterproof membrane or repairing the substrate adds both time and materials costs.

Tile Layout and Pattern Complexity: Straightforward grid layouts are the least expensive. Patterns such as herringbone, basketweave, or diagonal cuts require more skill and increase labor charges.

Custom Features: Built-in niches, benches, or integrated shelving require additional tile cutting and waterproofing, increasing both material waste and labor time.

Permits and Inspections: In some areas, significant bathroom renovations require permits and inspections, which may add administrative costs and time delays.

Expert Perspectives on the Cost of Retiling a Shower

Jessica Lane (Certified Tile Installer and Renovation Consultant). “The cost to retile a shower typically ranges between $1,000 and $3,500, depending largely on the size of the shower, the type of tile selected, and the complexity of the installation. High-end materials like natural stone or intricate mosaic patterns can push the price upward, while standard ceramic tiles tend to be more budget-friendly. Labor costs also vary by region, so it’s important to get multiple quotes from licensed professionals to ensure competitive pricing.”

Mark Chen (Licensed General Contractor and Bathroom Remodel Specialist). “When budgeting for a shower retiling project, homeowners should account not only for tile and labor but also for potential underlying repairs such as waterproofing membrane replacement or addressing mold issues. These factors can add several hundred dollars to the total cost. On average, a straightforward shower retiling job with mid-range materials will cost around $2,000 to $2,500, but unexpected repairs can increase this figure significantly.”

Elena Rodriguez (Interior Designer and Tile Selection Expert). “The price to retile a shower is influenced by both material choice and design complexity. Custom or designer tiles, such as hand-painted ceramics or glass mosaics, can substantially increase costs, sometimes doubling the price compared to standard tiles. Additionally, intricate layouts requiring more cutting and precision will raise labor expenses. For a typical shower, clients should expect to invest approximately $1,500 to $4,000, depending on these variables.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is the cost to retile a shower typically calculated?
The cost is generally based on the size of the shower, the type and quality of tiles chosen, labor rates, and any additional work such as waterproofing or removing old tiles.

What is the average price range for retiling a standard shower?
On average, retiling a standard shower can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on materials and labor complexity.

Do labor costs vary significantly by location when retile a shower?
Yes, labor costs can vary widely depending on geographic location, with urban areas typically charging higher rates than rural ones.

Are there additional expenses to consider beyond tile and labor?
Additional costs may include waterproofing membranes, grout, sealants, demolition and disposal of old tiles, and potential repairs to underlying surfaces.

Can using larger tiles reduce the overall cost of retiling a shower?
Larger tiles can reduce installation time and grout usage, potentially lowering labor and material costs, but tile price and design complexity also influence the final cost.

Is it more cost-effective to hire a professional or attempt retile a shower as a DIY project?
While DIY can save on labor costs, professional installation ensures proper waterproofing and tile placement, reducing the risk of costly future repairs.
Retiling a shower involves several cost factors, including the size of the shower, the type and quality of tiles chosen, labor expenses, and any additional work such as waterproofing or removing old tiles. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a standard shower retiling project, though prices can vary significantly based on location and material selection.

It is important to consider that labor typically accounts for a substantial portion of the total cost, often ranging from 40% to 60%. Selecting durable, water-resistant tiles and ensuring proper installation are critical to preventing future issues such as leaks or mold growth, which can save money in the long term. Additionally, budgeting for potential unforeseen repairs during the demolition phase is advisable.

Ultimately, investing in professional installation and quality materials will enhance the shower’s aesthetic appeal and longevity. Homeowners should obtain multiple quotes, verify contractor credentials, and clearly define the project scope to achieve the best balance between cost, quality, and durability when retiling a shower.

Author Profile

Colleen Barnes
Colleen Barnes
Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.

With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.