InsightsGuide · Outside the house

Outdoor tiling for alfresco and porch: builder vs private

What tiling an alfresco and porch costs through the builder compared with buying tiles and hiring a tiler.

Educational information only

This guide is general, educational information to help you understand typical costs and choices. Prices are approximate, based on examples seen in south-east Queensland in 2024–2026, and will vary with location, size, materials, supplier and time. It is not financial, legal, building or professional advice, and not a quote. Always get written quotes from licensed trades and check your own contracts before making decisions.

Front of a new house with tiled porch
A tiled porch on a new house
Tiling labourabout $55 /m²

Laying outdoor tiles (2024)

Builder priceabout $4,950

Porch and alfresco (2024 tender)

Privateabout $5,200

Tiles + tiler, larger area

Allow for wastage10%

When ordering tiles

Example labour prices

All three work out at about $55 per m² for laying. Tiles, delivery and removal of tile waste are extra.

Area tiledLabour
51 m²about $2,800
59.5 m²about $3,270
63 m²about $3,460

Builder or private?

One builder quoted about $4,950 to tile the porch and alfresco. Buying 300 × 600 mm outdoor tiles separately (about $2,370 delivered, including 10% spare) and hiring a tiler (about $2,830) cost about $5,200, but covered a larger area.

Going private can give more choice of tiles and a bigger area for similar money, but you organise the timing and the slab must be ready. Ask the builder for a plain concrete slab under areas you plan to tile.

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Disclaimer

Everything on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Costs, prices, interest rates, rules and government schemes change over time, and the figures shown are approximate examples that may already be out of date. Nothing here is financial, tax, legal, building or professional advice, a recommendation or a quote. Do your own research, get written quotes and seek advice from qualified professionals before making any decision.

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