Poor tiling jobs often result in uneven surfaces, cracks, loose tiles and expensive repairs. Whether you are renovating your bathroom, kitchen or outdoor area, understanding the most common tiling mistakes can save you time, money and frustration.
In this 2026 tiling guide, Noble Tiling Solutions highlights the top mistakes homeowners and inexperienced installers make—and how to avoid them for a long-lasting, flawless finish.
Not Preparing the Surface Properly
Improper surface preparation leads to hollow tiles, weak adhesion and early failure.
Avoid it by:
- Ensuring the surface is clean, dry and even
- Removing old adhesive and dust
- Repairing cracks before installation
- Applying primer where necessary
Incorrect Tile Layout Planning
Not planning the layout causes awkward cuts, uneven edges and unbalanced design.
Avoid it by:
- Marking out starting points
- Dry-laying tiles to visualize spacing
- Ensuring consistent symmetry
Using Poor-Quality Adhesive
Cheap or incorrect adhesive can cause tiles to shift, loosen or crack.
Avoid it by:
- Choosing adhesive based on tile type
- Using waterproof adhesive for bathrooms
- Following manufacturer guidelines
Uneven Screeding or Floor Levels
Uneven surfaces result in lippage (tiles sticking up), poor water drainage and cracking.
Avoid it by:
- Ensuring professional screeding
- Using levelling systems
- Checking levels throughout installation
Not Using Tile Spacers
Skipping spacers leads to inconsistent grout lines and misaligned tiles.
Avoid it by:
- Using spacers sized for your tile type
- Maintaining uniform gaps
Incorrect Waterproofing in Wet Areas
One of the biggest and most costly mistakes is poor waterproofing.
Avoid it by:
- Following Australian Standards AS3740
- Hiring a licensed waterproofing professional
- Allowing membrane to fully cure
Rushing the Installation
Speeding through tiling causes uneven placement and poor bonding.
Avoid it by:
- Allowing proper drying time
- Avoiding foot traffic during curing
- Planning the project schedule ahead
Improper Tile Cutting Techniques
Bad cuts result in chipped, uneven or broken tiles.
Avoid it by:
- Using the right cutting tools
- Wet saws for porcelain and stone
- Practising cuts on spare tiles
Not Cleaning Excess Adhesive
Adhesive left on tile surfaces hardens and is difficult to remove.
Avoid it by:
- Wiping tiles as you install
- Keeping edges clean before grouting
Using the Wrong Grout Type
Grout mismatch causes cracking, discolouration and water seepage.
Avoid it by:
- Selecting grout based on tile material
- Using epoxy grout for high-moisture areas
- Sealing grout after installation
Image 1: A comparison of good vs. bad tiling
Image 2: Close-up of uneven tiles (lippage)
Image 3: Professional waterproofing application
Image 4: Tools used for proper tile cutting
If you want a flawless tile installation with no mistakes, trust Melbourne’s licensed professionals.
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Noble Tiling Solutions Pty Ltd
