If you’re planning to tile a wall bathroom, kitchen, accent wall, whatever, the first thing you’re probably wondering is how much it’s going to cost. That’s the right question. Because if you don’t plan properly, tile work can get out of hand quickly. Materials, labor, and prep it all add up. And a lot of folks underestimate it until they’re already in it.
Let’s Start with the Numbers
Wall tile installation usually runs between $7 to $25 per square foot in New Jersey. That’s for labor and materials together. But don’t lock that in because it depends on a few things:
- Type of tile – Ceramic is cheaper. Porcelain, natural stone, glass? More expensive. Stone can bump you into $30+ per square foot, depending on the finish and size.
- Surface prep – If the wall’s already smooth and ready, you’re in good shape. But if it needs a demo, patching, backer board, and waterproofing add more cost.
- Pattern complexity – Straight lay is quicker. Herringbone or mosaic? Slower install, more cuts, higher labor cost.
- Height and access – Tiling a backsplash is one thing. A full shower wall or a 10-foot accent wall? That’s another.
When to Install Wall Tile
Wall tiles are not just for looks. It’s functional. Bathrooms, especially, need waterproofing. Showers and tub surrounds are the most common wall tile projects we see around here. Then there are backsplashes in kitchens. Some people go full height to the ceiling, now it’s a clean look, but it adds to the labor.
You want to do it:
- Before installing cabinets, if you’re doing a kitchen remodel.
- After plumbing and electrical are roughed in, but before fixtures go in.
- Once drywall is up and cured,d but before painting. (Painters hate masking tape.)
The Right Way vs. the Cheap Way
We’ve fixed enough bad tile jobs to know that cutting corners costs more in the long run. A common mistake? Skipping waterproofing in showers. That’s a disaster waiting to happen. Mould behind the wall, loose tiles, constant repairs. Don’t just rely on grout and tile, they’re not waterproof.
Another mistake: cheap thinset or wrong adhesive. Especially with large-format tile. It needs the right coverage and technique. You don’t just slap it on. We use premium mortar with a good back buttering technique. It’s not fancy, it’s just the correct way.
Also, don’t tile over old tile unless it’s 100% sound. And don’t assume any contractor knows what they’re doing just because they say “we do tile.” Ask for photos, ask for real references, especially for wall tiles. It’s a different animal from floor tile.
How We Price It at Precise Tile & Stone
We don’t do blanket pricing. Every job is different. But to give you an idea, here’s a rough range:
- Kitchen backsplash (30–40 sq ft): $800–$1,500, depending on tile type and if there’s existing tile to remove.
- Full shower walls (75–120 sq ft): $2,500–$4,500+. That includes waterproofing, cement board, setting materials, and installation.
- Accent wall or fireplace surround: totally varies. It could be $1,000 or could be $5,000, depending on what we’re installing and how high we’re going.
We’re licensed and insured. We’ve been doing this a long time in North Jersey Verona, Montclair, Fairfield, all over Essex and Passaic. We don’t lowball to get the job. We price it to do it right, and we stand behind the work.
Why Wall Tile Costs More Than You Think
People forget it’s not just sticking tiles to a wall. There’s layout, measuring, surface prep, waterproofing (if needed), cutting, levelling, grouting, sealing (for natural stone), cleanup, and sometimes even scaffolding if it’s high up. Labor is skilled and detailed.
Wall tile also has less margin for error. Floors can hide a little lippage here and there. Walls? Not so forgiving. Everything’s at eye level.
Final Thoughts (But Not Fluffy Ones)
If you’re thinking of tiling a wall, plan the budget realistically. Decide on your tile first, as price varies a lot. Make sure the wall is ready. Don’t DIY a shower wall unless you’ve done it before. And hire someone who gives a damn. That’s the difference between tile that lasts 20 years and tile that starts falling off next winter.
If you’re in New Jersey and want it done right, give us a shout. We’re based in Little Falls, but we go all over Montclair, Livingston, Caldwell, you name it.
We’re not just tile installers. We’re tile problem solvers. And we do it right the first time.
Precise Tile & Stone
📍 11 E Main St, Little Falls Township, NJ 07424
📞 (973) 985-2626
