Tiling Works in Renovation: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
- adele.tct
- Mar 26
- 4 min read

Tiling is one of the most important phases in home renovation, providing both functionality and aesthetics. A well-executed tiling job enhances durability and visual appeal, especially in high-use areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.
At How 2 Design Pte Ltd, we follow a structured tiling process to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting finish. This guide details each step, from hacking existing tiles to the final touches.
🔹Step 1: Hacking & Removal of Old Tiles (2-3 Days, Depending on Area Size)
Before new tiles can be installed, the existing flooring or wall tiles need to be removed. This step involves heavy demolition work, so proper precautions are taken to prevent damage to the surrounding structure.
Process:
✔️ Hacking of Old Tiles – Workers use power tools like jackhammers and chisel drills to remove existing tiles from the floor and walls.
✔️ Removal of Adhesive Layer – The old adhesive or cement screed under the tiles is chipped away to create a smooth base for the new tiles.
✔️ Structural Check – We inspect the condition of the underlying concrete slab to ensure there are no cracks or damage.
💡 Pro Tip: If your home is an HDB unit, hacking works require a permit from HDB, and noise restrictions apply (no hacking on weekends and public holidays).
🔹 Step 2: Haulage & Disposal of Debris (1-2 Days)
After hacking, a significant amount of debris, including broken tiles and cement dust, needs to be removed. Haulage services are scheduled for efficient disposal.
Process:
✔️ Collection & Bagging – Debris is collected in heavy-duty bags for easy transport.
✔️ Transport to Disposal Site – Removal and Haulage of the debris and dispose of it at designated landfill sites.
✔️ Site Cleaning – A thorough sweep and vacuuming are done to remove dust and small debris.
💡 Pro Tip: Haulage costs vary depending on the renovation scale. Make sure this is included in your quotation to avoid unexpected fees.
🔹 Step 3: Surface Preparation (2-3 Days)
Before laying new tiles, the surface must be properly prepared to ensure durability and prevent issues like uneven tiles or water seepage.
Process:
✔️ Thin Bed as first layer - 1st step of waterproofing before applying waterproofing membrane.
✔️ Waterproofing (for wet areas) – A waterproofing membrane is applied to bathroom floors and walls to prevent leaks.
✔️ Ponding Test (for waterproofing verification) – The bathroom floor is filled with water and left for 24 hours to check for leaks before proceeding.
✔️ Drying & Curing – Cement screed and waterproofing must be left to dry completely before tiling begins.
💡 Pro Tip: Waterproofing is mandatory for HDB bathrooms, and inspections by HDB may be required before proceeding with tiling.
🔹Step 4: Tile Selection & Layout Planning (1-2 Days, Overlapping with Previous Steps)
Choosing the right tiles is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality. The layout planning ensures precise placement, minimizing unnecessary tile cuts and wastage.
Process:
✔️ Tile Selection – Homeowners confirm their chosen tiles, including size, color, and material (e.g., ceramic, porcelain, homogeneous, marble).
✔️ Measurement & Layout Planning – The tile layout is marked to ensure symmetry and alignment, considering doorways, corners, and built-in fixtures.
✔️ Tile Cutting Plan – We determine where tiles need to be cut for a seamless look, avoiding awkward gaps at the edges.
💡 Pro Tip: Larger tiles (e.g., 600x600mm or 800x800mm) create a more spacious look but may require more precise cutting in small areas.
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🔹 Step 5: Tiling Installation (5-10 Days, Depending on Area Size & Tile Type)
Once the surface is fully prepped, the tiling process begins. This is a meticulous phase requiring skilled workmanship.
Process:
✔️ Application of Tile Adhesive (Thinset Mortar) – A layer of adhesive is evenly spread using a notched trowel to ensure strong bonding.
✔️ Laying the Tiles – Tiles are carefully placed according to the planned layout, ensuring straight lines and uniform spacing.
✔️ Tile Spacing & Alignment – Tile spacers are used to maintain equal grout lines between tiles.
✔️ Cutting & Fitting – Any required tile cuts are made using a wet tile saw for precise edges, especially around corners and fixtures.
✔️ Curing & Setting – Tiles are left to set for at least 24 hours before grouting.
💡 Pro Tip: Rectified tiles (tiles with mechanically cut edges) create thinner grout lines for a sleek, modern look.
🔹 Step 6: Grouting & Finishing Touches (1-2 Days)
Grout is applied to fill the spaces between tiles, securing them in place and preventing moisture buildup.
Grout is applied to fill the spaces between tiles, securing them in place and preventing moisture buildup.
Process:
✔️ Grout Application – Grout is spread over the tiles and pushed into the joints using a rubber float.
✔️ Excess Grout Removal – Excess grout is wiped off with a damp sponge before it dries.
✔️ Sealing (if required) – Certain grout types, especially for natural stone tiles, require sealing to prevent stains and water absorption.
✔️ Final Cleaning – The tiles are cleaned and polished to remove grout haze and dust.
💡 Pro Tip: Epoxy grout is more durable and stain-resistant than traditional cement-based grout, making it ideal for wet areas.
📌 Estimated Timeline for Tiling Works
Tiling Work Stage | Estimated Duration |
Hacking & Tile Removal | 2-3 days |
Haulage & Disposal | 1-2 days |
Surface Preparation | 2-3 days |
Tile Selection & Layout Planning | 1-2 days (overlapping) |
Tiling & Grouting | 5-10 days |
Total Estimated Duration | 10-19 days |
Final Thoughts: Achieving a Quality Tiling Finish
Tiling is more than just laying tiles—it requires precision, proper surface preparation, and expert craftsmanship. At How 2 Design Pte Ltd, we ensure every step is executed carefully to achieve a flawless, long-lasting finish.
Planning a tiling upgrade for your home? Contact us today to discuss your renovation needs!

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