Why IDs MUST Quote You for Excess Tiles

Many homeowners wonder why IDs need to charge them 10% more for excess tiles. Are they trying to “tok” them?

Source: Deconstruct

The truth is, if the ID does not quote you for it, they are more likely to be the “tok-ker”.

Let us explain.

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Tile sizes in Singapore are pretty standard:

• 30x60cm

• 60x60cm

• 80x80cm

• 120x60cm

Take a look at this wall. It’s 143cm long.

Now, if we’re using standard 60cm-wide tiles, simple division tells us:
143 ÷ 60 = 2.38

See the problem? You can’t install 2.38 tiles, the tiler will need to cut the third tile to fit the remaining 23cm. That leftover piece? That’s wastage.

This happens in every renovation because walls and floors rarely match perfectly with tile dimensions. Of course some wastage can be recycled on other smaller size areas, but it can’t be done for everywhere.

Furthermore, sometimes during cutting tiles might crack, forcing the tiler to grab another tile. That’s why ordering extra tiles isn’t a scam, it’s just practical.

If you’re wondering how much excess you should cater for, here’s the general rule of thumb:

• For smaller tiles (60x60cm or less): 10% more

• For larger tiles (80x80cm, 120x60cm): You’ll need 15%-20% more because bigger tiles = more cutting = higher chance of wastage.

Warning alert: Excess tiles charge are for the purchase of actual tiles alone, they do not apply to the labour to lay the tiles.

Tiling cost is made up of (1) actual tiles (2) cement materials and (3) the labour charge to lay the tiles.

Meaning if the ID says “Eh bro, you need to top up 10% for the labour charge too because of the excess tiles”, run.

Labour charges are based on actual square footage (sq ft) of the house. It is not dependent on the tile quantity.

But by lumping it together under “tiling”, it is an “easy” way for IDs/contractors to explain this away and charge more than necessary. As always, the devil is in the details!

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