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What is standard bathroom tiling height?

Standard tiling height in new homes is typically 1200mm–1800mm on shower walls and wet areas. Some builders tile to ceiling height (2400mm+) as standard, others tile only to a mid-height on non-wet areas.

How much does floor-to-ceiling tiling cost extra?

Adding full-height tiling to walls not in the wet area typically costs $1,000–$3,000+ depending on the size of the bathroom and tile specification.

Is floor-to-ceiling tiling worth the upgrade?

Yes for most buyers in bathrooms. It creates a cleaner look, avoids paint/tile transitions, and is easier to clean. It significantly lifts the perceived quality of the bathroom.

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Home›Build Knowledge Hub›Building Process›Bathrooms›Floor-to-Ceiling Tiles vs Standard Tiling

Bathrooms

Floor-to-Ceiling Tiles vs Standard Tiling

A comparison of full-height (floor-to-ceiling) bathroom tiles versus standard builder tiling heights — cost, appearance, and what's standard.

5 min·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated June 2025

Introduction

Bathroom tiling height is a specification detail that dramatically affects the final appearance and perceived quality of a bathroom. Full floor-to-ceiling tiling creates a premium, hotel-like finish; standard tiling heights leave the upper wall as painted plaster. The cost difference can be significant — but so can the result.

Feature	Standard Tiling	Floor-to-Ceiling Tiling
Wet area height	Full height	Full height
Non-wet walls	600–1200mm height	Full ceiling height
Transition	Tile-to-paint line	No transition — all tile
Cleaning	Paint above can discolour	All surfaces cleanable
Appearance	Standard	Premium, hotel-like
Upgrade cost	—	+$1,000 – $3,000 per bathroom

Common Builder Inclusions

›Wet area (shower) tiling to full height is standard — but other walls may be partial height
›Full floor-to-ceiling tiling on all bathroom walls is an upgrade with most builders
›Confirm exact tiling heights in your specification — ask for a plan showing tile zones
›Some builders include full-height tiling in master bathroom as standard