Tiling a Kitchen Splashback: Price Guide and Cost Breakdown (2026)
Before you start your next kitchen upgrade, let’s break down exactly what you’ll spend — and where you can save.
1. How much for Tiling materials and tools - DIY.
Materials:
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Tiles – See the calculator below
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S1 adhesive 20kg – £22
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Grout – £18
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Surface primer – £20
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Mould resistant sealant – £13
Tools:
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6 mm trowel – £12
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Grout float – £12
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Wet saw with diamond blade ~ £100
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60 cm spirit level – £28
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Measuring tape 5m – £5
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Pile Roller – £8
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2 mm spacers (Qty 500) – £5
- bucket and a sponge £3
2. How many Tiles Will I need?
Tile Number Estimator
DIY Tip
Always buy 10-15% extra tiles to allow for cuts, breakages, and future repairs, also depending on your skill level with cutting tiles.
Tile Cost Calculator
3. How to save money on DIY splashback?
Borrow Tools:
Wet saws are expensive (£100). Suggest borrowing from friends, family, or renting from tool hire stores will reduce the cost.
Buy different tools:
Instead of wet saw buy an angle grinder with a diamond blade(its ~£100 vs £50). Angle grinder is the go tool for most pro tilers. However, it requires precision and steady hands.
Buy used Tiling Tools :
- eBay and Gumtree, Facebook marketplace and other are filled with people selling tools after DIY renovations.
Buy Smart :
Materials and tiles can be bought at shop clearances.
4. Cost of hiring a professional tiler for Kitchen Splashback
That's for tiling an easy splashback. splashback price depends on pattern you choose and number of cuts needed around sockets
Example
Herringbone pattern, 2 square meter, Staffordshire:
Materials (tiles dependant) –> £75–£200
Labour (Pattern multiplier 1.4) –> £84–£168
Total cost for kitchen splashback –> £159–£368
Happy Tiling!
Frequently Asked Questions — Kitchen Splashback Cost
Can I install a splashback myself if I’ve never tiled before?
Small splashbacks can be DIY-friendly. Stick to simple patterns like stacked or brick and follow tutorials. Here is the link to my DIY splashback guide.
How much extra does a patterned layout like herringbone cost?
Medium difficulty patterns like herringbone typically add around 30–40% more labour time for a skilled tiler. I would suggest hiring somebody for the job though – a lot of cuts to do.
Are there cheaper alternatives to traditional tiles for splashbacks?
Yes, peel and stick tiles, laminate sheets, painted splashbacks, full splashback panels
Does the type of tile affect the overall cost significantly?
Cheap options: Ceramic or porcelain tiles
Expensive options: natural stone and glass
Expect premium labour costs with tiling using natural stone or glass.
How long does it take to install a 2m² splashback?
Straight or brick pattern, usually takes half a day to a full day.
Check the table of tile patterns and time labour impact.
Do I need special tools for small splashback projects?
DIY splashbacks, basic tools like a 6mm trowel, grout float, spacers, measuring tape, level and a small wet saw are usually sufficient. Check my shopping list above.
What’s the best way to save money on tiling a splashback?
Borrow or rent tools, buy clearance or discontinued tiles, stick to simple patterns. Hiring a professional could be the cheapest option.
Need a Quote?
Professional tiling services in — Tamworth, Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield, Nuneaton. New kitchens splashbacks, bathrooms & floor.
Friendly advice and no-obligation quotes.