cost of installing Tiles #2

[Noel]

Got 2 estimates for installing 80 sq ft 12 x 12 porcelain tiles in kitchen. One was a handyman for around $7 a sq ft , $560 to $700, and a company that estimated around $800 without removing the current wooden floor which is tongue and grove laminated, to $1000 with removing the wooden floor. This is Brooklyn new york...it does sound excessive for a $160 cost of tiles in a straight and forward job of 80 sq ft. I realize the cost of the tiles has nothing to do with the labor.

[RicodJour]

And...?

R

[charlie]

yeah, so? you got your question answered. congratulations. you now know how to get estimates in the future. if you don't like those estimates, either continue to call until you get one you like, diy, or don't get it done.

[coffee]

I think most of the cost is preping the floor for tiles. If the floors are built with osb board then its gotta be ripped up and plywood grade has to be layed down. Then dont forget the cement board, screws, Thinset, grout, and then the laybor of cutting tile/laying it and getting everything right.

You know, If you are in good physical shape you can do it yourself like others have suggested. I did my kitchen and the walkway from it to the front door. Im not sure I saved a bunch of money because I had to buy the tools also but it was a fantastic experience and one that you will remember as thru the years you show it off to friends.

Do it yourself if you can!

coffee

[Noel]

I suspect the only tool I may need is a tile cutter. Now, i never used the contraption..did you use one and bought one? How much do they run for? Most likely it be used just once.

[Bubba]

[coffee]

I bought a tile striker. It cuts only straight lines. But I would invest in a decent wet saw - Heres why -> If you screw things up because you dont have the right tools, Then you live with it for quite a while.

I really would check if you can put tile over tougne and grove though. Be sure the first time.

Tile cutter I got was from Home Depot. I think it was about 20 bucks or less. Not a real expensive one. But you can get a decent wet saw for this type of situation for around 100 bucks. I didnt buy a wet saw first time I tiled and regret it all the way.

[Noel]

Just what is a 'wet saw'...some of us are not handyman savy as far as some name of tools.