Labor Cost to Tile a Tub Surround: Professional Guide

Price source: Costs shown are derived from our proprietary U.S. construction cost database (updated continuously from contractor/bid/pricing inputs and normalization rules).

Eva Steinmetzer-Shaw

Head of Marketing

Understanding the Labor Cost to Tile a Tub Surround

For construction professionals, accurately estimating the labor cost to tile a tub surround is crucial. Typically, labor accounts for 50-65% of the total budget. Factors such as square footage, tile type, and local market rates significantly influence costs. This guide provides detailed insights to help you price projects effectively and maintain profitability.

Average Price Ranges in Residential Construction

In 2026, labor costs for a standard 3-wall tub surround (60" x 30" x 72") range from $1,500 to $2,500. In high-wage areas, costs can exceed $3,000. Typical labor costs include:

80 sq ft surround with 3" x 6" subway tile: $8 – $15 per sq ft
80 sq ft surround with 12" x 24" porcelain: $8 – $15 per sq ft
Premium mosaics or patterns: $14 – $40 per sq ft

Additional costs arise from demolition, framing adjustments, or custom features like niches and waterproofing.

Key Factors Driving Labor Cost

Tile Size & Pattern: Large tiles require precise substrate preparation, increasing labor time.
Substrate & Waterproofing: Sheet membranes take longer to install but offer superior performance.
Layout Complexity: Patterns like herringbone require more cuts and time.
Site Accessibility: Difficult access can add labor hours.
Change Orders: Late changes can disrupt schedules and increase costs.

How CountBricks Calculates Labor in Seconds

CountBricks uses AI to provide accurate labor estimates. During client calls, our software identifies project elements and calculates labor needs based on tile type, pattern, and local wages. Benefits include:

Auto-calculated labor hours
Recommended crew size and timeline
Suggested retail rates

Step-by-Step Costing Workflow

1. Voice Capture: Discuss finishes with the client.
2. Instant Takeoff: Upload plans; CountBricks measures areas.
3. AI Assembly: Matches surfaces to labor tasks.
4. Cost Localization: Adjusts rates based on location.
5. Proposal Generation: Creates detailed proposals.
6. Client Approval: Digital signatures lock in prices.

Why Precise Labor Costing Matters

Accurate estimates prevent overbidding and underbidding, protecting margins. CountBricks users report a 28% increase in job margins. Precise labor inputs also improve scheduling and project turnover.

Real-World CountBricks Example

A Los Angeles contractor used CountBricks for a guest bath remodel, achieving a 38% gross profit by accurately estimating labor at $1,840 and winning the bid at $2,250.