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Serdiuk Plumbing Solutions

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Tiling Services · Cork

Professional Tiling Services in Cork

Tiling is one of those jobs where the difference between good and grand is in the details — dead-straight lines, even grout, proper waterproofing and a finish that still looks sharp in ten years. We tile bathrooms, wet rooms, floors, walls and feature walls across Cork, with the preparation and precision that make a room feel properly finished, not just covered.

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Precision installation Waterproof preparation Premium finishes Bathroom specialists Local Cork company
Professionally tiled bathroom with precise tiling and clean grout lines in Cork
Bathroom specialists
Premium workmanship
Fully insured
Precision tiling
Local Cork business
Workmanship, not tiles

Why good tiling is worth it

Anyone can stick a tile to a wall. Making a whole room look sharp, stay watertight and last for years is a different skill — and it's almost entirely down to the bits you don't see.

It's the first thing people notice. Crooked lines, uneven gaps and bad cuts around a window or a socket jump out at you, even if you can't say why. Clean, level, well-planned tiling is what makes a bathroom feel expensive.

It has to keep water where it belongs. A bathroom or wet room is asking tiles to hold back water day after day. Proper waterproofing behind and beneath the tiles is what stops leaks, rot and the black mould that follows.

Done right, it lasts. Good preparation and the correct adhesive, grout and movement joints mean tiles that don't lift, crack or let go. It protects the room, holds its value, and saves you redoing it in a few years.

The honest truth about tiling: most tiling that fails didn't fail because of the tile — it failed because of what was, or wasn't, done underneath it. That's where the real work is.

Where we tile

What we tile

From a full bathroom to a single feature wall, it's the same standard of preparation and finish every time.

Bathrooms & en-suites

Full walls and floors tiled to a clean, watertight, hard-wearing finish — our bread and butter.

Wet rooms & walk-in showers

Fully tanked, with the floor falls set so water runs to the drain and nowhere else.

Floor tiling

Level, lippage-free floors that feel solid underfoot — ideal over underfloor heating.

Walls & feature walls

From simple metro walls to bold patterned or large-format feature walls done properly.

Kitchen splashbacks

Neat, easy-clean splashbacks tied in tidily around sockets, taps and units.

Utility & hallways

Durable, practical tiling for the busy, mucky areas of the house.

How it's done right

Our tiling process

Most of a good tiling job happens before the first tile goes up. Here's how we work, and why each step matters.

1

Survey & prep planning

We check the room, the surfaces and your tile choice, and plan the job — because the right plan avoids awkward cuts and surprises later.

2

Surface inspection

We make sure the walls and floor are sound, dry and suitable. Tiling onto a poor surface is the number-one cause of failure down the line.

3

Waterproofing & tanking

In showers and wet rooms we tank the area first, so water can't get behind the tiles. This is the step that quietly saves your home from damp.

4

Levelling & preparation

Walls and floors are levelled and primed so the finished tiling is flat and true, not following every dip in the old surface.

5

Layout & set-out

We set out the tiles so the lines are balanced and the cuts fall in the right places — no thin slivers in the most visible corner.

6

Precision cutting

Clean cuts around pipes, sockets, windows and edges. This is where neat work shows, and where rushed work always shows too.

7

Fixing the tiles

Tiles are fixed with the correct adhesive and full coverage, kept dead level with no lippage between them.

8

Grouting

Once set, we grout with the right product and colour for a consistent, hard-wearing finish that resists staining.

9

Silicone & sealing

Internal corners and edges are sealed with silicone, and movement joints left where needed, so nothing cracks as the building moves.

10

Clean & final check

We clean off the haze, check every tile and line, and walk you through the finished room before we leave.

Thinking about tiling a room?

Send us a few photos or your tile choice and we'll give you an honest view and a clear written quote — no pressure.

Request a quote on WhatsApp Call 083 808 8656
No surprises

What's included in a tiling job

Exactly what's needed varies by room, but a typical tiling job covers:

  • Surface preparation — getting walls and floors sound, dry and ready.
  • Levelling — flat, true surfaces so the finish isn't following old dips.
  • Waterproofing & tanking — wet areas sealed before any tile goes on.
  • Tile layout & set-out — balanced lines and cuts planned in advance.
  • Precision cutting — neat cuts around pipes, sockets and edges.
  • Tile installation — fixed level and true with the correct adhesive.
  • Grouting — the right grout and colour, neatly finished.
  • Silicone sealing — clean, flexible seals in corners and at edges.
  • Movement joints — left where needed so nothing cracks over time.
  • Cleaning — grout haze cleaned off and the room left tidy.
  • Final inspection — every line and edge checked before we sign off.
  • Walkthrough — we show you the finished work and how to care for it.
The part you never see

Why preparation is everything

You'll never see the waterproofing, the levelling or the adhesive — but they're what decides whether your tiling lasts five years or twenty-five. This is where corners get cut, and where we don't.

Waterproofing. In showers and wet rooms, the tiles and grout aren't a waterproof layer on their own — water finds its way through. Tanking the area first means any moisture is stopped before it reaches the wall or floor behind. Skip this and you get damp, rot and mould, often hidden until it's a big job.

Subfloor & wall preparation. Tiles need a sound, stable, level base. A floor that flexes or a wall that's out of true will crack tiles and grout in time. We level and prime properly so the tiling has something solid to hold onto.

Adhesive, falls & movement joints. The right adhesive with full coverage stops hollow spots and loose tiles. In a wet room, the floor falls have to send water to the drain. And movement joints let the building expand and contract without cracking your tiles — a small detail that prevents a big failure.

It's why we tile and plumb together. Because we handle the pipework and waterproofing as well as the tiling, the whole job is joined up — no blaming between trades when something leaks. It's all part of how we approach a full bathroom renovation.

Choosing tiles

Tile types, in plain terms

Happy to advise on what suits your room and budget. Here's the honest rundown of the common options.

Porcelain

Dense, hard-wearing and water-resistant, in every look going.

Best for: bathroom floors, walk-in showers and busy areas.

Ceramic

Lighter and easier on the budget, great on walls.

Best for: bathroom and kitchen walls, splashbacks.

Natural stone & marble

Beautiful and unique, but needs sealing and a little care.

Best for: feature areas and higher-end finishes.

Large-format

Fewer grout lines for a clean, seamless, modern look.

Best for: making rooms feel bigger — yes, even small ones.

Mosaic

Small tiles that wrap around curves and shower floors.

Best for: shower bases, niches and detail bands.

Wood-effect & patterned

The warmth of timber or a bold pattern, with the durability of tile.

Best for: floors, feature walls and characterful rooms.

Why us

Why homeowners choose Serdiuk Plumbing for tiling

When you're comparing tilers, it usually comes down to who you trust to take care over the details. Here's what you get with us.

Bathroom specialists

Bathrooms are our main work, so tiling them well is something we do day in, day out.

Plumbing knowledge

We understand what's behind the tiles, so the waterproofing and pipework are right, not guessed.

Precision workmanship

Dead-straight lines, even spacing and no lippage — the things you notice every day.

Attention to detail

Neat cuts, tidy edges and balanced layouts — the small things that make a room.

Clear communication

Straight answers, a clear quote, and we talk you through choices that affect the finish.

Respect for your home

We protect floors and furniture, keep dust down and clean up properly when we're done.

Reliable scheduling

We turn up when we say we will and keep you posted from start to finish.

Premium finish

We're not done until it looks the way good tiling should — sharp, clean and built to last.

Local Cork company

Based in Carrigaline and working across Cork, so we're easy to reach before and after.

What to watch for

Common tiling mistakes (and how we avoid them)

If you've ever looked at a tiled wall and felt something was "off," it's usually one of these. Good preparation and a steady hand prevent every one of them.

  • Crooked lines and tiles that drift off level
  • Uneven grout gaps and spacing
  • Poor or missing waterproofing in wet areas
  • The wrong grout, cracking or staining early
  • Lippage — tile edges sitting proud of each other
  • Rushed, ragged cuts around pipes and sockets
  • Weak adhesive or hollow spots behind tiles
  • No movement joints, leading to cracks later
  • Shower floor falls that pond water instead of draining

None of these are bad luck — they're all down to preparation, set-out and taking the time to do it right. That's exactly the part we won't rush.

One contractor, one job

Tiling as part of a full bathroom

Tiling rarely stands alone — there's usually plumbing, a shower, sanitary ware and sometimes heating behind it. Because we do all of it, you can keep the whole job under one roof.

When one team handles the pipework, the shower, the waterproofing and the tiling, everything lines up the way it should — and there's nobody to blame if it doesn't, because it's all us. No waiting on a plumber to come back before the tiler can finish, no mismatched standards between trades.

If you're redoing a bathroom from scratch, it's worth looking at our complete bathroom renovations in Cork, where the tiling is one part of a single, managed project. Building a new home? We also tile and plumb as part of new build plumbing, and we're here afterwards for plumbing maintenance if you ever need it.

Recent work

Recent tiling work in Cork

A few examples of recent tiling and bathroom projects around Cork. See more of our recent work here.

Tiled walk-in shower with precise tiling in Ballincollig, Cork
Patterned Bathroom Floor TilingVictorian-style patterned floor tiles laid with precision for a timeless, eye-catching finish.
Feature tile shower wall in Midleton, Cork
Large Format Porcelain Floor TilingLarge porcelain tiles installed with precision for a clean, modern, and spacious look.
Fully tiled bathroom with clean grout lines in Glanmire, Cork
Full Bathroom Tiling — GlanmireWalls and floor tiled to a clean, watertight finish.
Tiled bathroom renovation in Douglas, Cork
Kitchen Splashback TilingStone-effect splashback tiles fitted with precision for a sleek and easy-to-maintain finish.
Tiled floor and walls in a Carrigaline bathroom, Cork
Polished Porcelain Entrance TilingPremium polished porcelain tiles installed to deliver a bright, durable, and elegant entrance.
Tiled bathroom with large format tiles in Blackrock, Cork
Bathroom Tiling — BlackrockA clean, modern finish with minimal grout lines.
En-suite tiling in Cobh, Cork
En-suite Tiling — CobhNeat cuts and tidy edges in a compact space.
Bathroom refurbishment with new tiling in Cork
Bathroom Refurbishment — CorkOld tiling stripped out and replaced to a premium finish.

More photos are added as projects are completed.

Where we work

Tiling across Cork

Based in Carrigaline, we take on tiling and bathroom work right across Cork City and County. Being local means it's easy to call out, quote and get the job done without a long drive. If your area isn't listed below, do get in touch — we likely cover you.

Cork CityDouglasCarrigaline BallincolligMidletonBlackrock CobhGlanmireBlarney Little IslandPassage WestBishopstown RochestownKinsaleMallow Crosshaven
Good to know

Tiling FAQs

What tiles are best for a bathroom?
Porcelain is usually the best all-rounder — it's dense, water-resistant and hard-wearing, which suits floors and showers especially. Ceramic is a great, more affordable option for walls. We'll happily advise on what suits your room and budget.
Do porcelain tiles need sealing?
Most porcelain doesn't need sealing as the tile itself is very dense. Natural stone and some textured or polished finishes do need sealing, and we'll tell you clearly which applies to your choice.
How long does tiling take?
A typical bathroom is usually a few days, depending on size, the tile and how much preparation is needed. Larger or more detailed jobs take longer — we'll give you a realistic timeframe with your quote.
Do you waterproof before tiling?
Yes — in showers and wet rooms we tank the area first so water can't get behind the tiles. It's one of the most important steps and one we never skip.
Can you remove old tiles?
Yes. We strip out old tiling, prepare the surface back to a sound base and make good before the new tiling goes on.
Can you tile over existing tiles?
Sometimes, if the existing tiles are well stuck and the surface is suitable. Often it's better to strip them so we can waterproof and level properly — we'll give you an honest call after a look.
How long before I can use the shower after tiling?
Usually a day or two, to let the adhesive, grout and silicone fully cure. Rushing it can affect the finish, so we'll tell you exactly when it's good to go.
Can you replace cracked or loose tiles?
Yes — we can replace individual cracked or loose tiles where we can match them. If the issue is widespread, it can point to a preparation problem underneath, which we'll check.
Do large-format tiles suit small bathrooms?
They often do, surprisingly. Fewer grout lines make a small room feel bigger and calmer. The key is a properly levelled surface, since large tiles show up any unevenness.
Can you install tiles over underfloor heating?
Yes — tile is one of the best floor finishes over underfloor heating, as it conducts heat well. We make sure the build-up and movement joints suit a heated floor.
What grout colour should I choose?
It's down to the look you want — matching grout for a seamless finish, or a contrast to make a pattern pop. We'll talk it through, and bear in mind lighter grout on floors needs a bit more care to keep clean.
How long does grout last, and why does it crack?
Good grout lasts many years. When it cracks, it's usually down to movement — a flexing floor, missing movement joints or the wrong grout for the spot — all things proper preparation prevents.
Can you help prevent mould?
Yes. Proper waterproofing, the right silicone in the corners and good ventilation are what keep mould at bay. We seal things correctly, and we'll flag if your room would benefit from better ventilation.
How do I clean porcelain tiles?
Warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner is all most porcelain needs — avoid harsh or abrasive products that can dull the finish over time. We'll give you simple care advice at handover.
How much does tiling cost?
It depends on the room, the tile, and how much preparation and waterproofing is involved, so we price each job after seeing it. You'll get a clear written quote with no hidden extras.
Do you supply the tiles?
We can advise on tiles and point you to good local suppliers, and we're happy to work with whatever you choose. Many homeowners enjoy picking their own.
Can I buy my own tiles?
Absolutely — most people do. We'll tell you roughly how many to order, including spares, so you've enough without a load left over.
How many spare tiles should I order?
As a rule of thumb, around 10% extra to allow for cuts, plus a few kept aside for any future repairs. It's worth having a couple spare from the same batch.
Porcelain or ceramic — which is better?
Neither is simply "better." Porcelain is tougher and more water-resistant, ideal for floors and showers; ceramic is lighter and more affordable, great for walls. The right choice depends on where it's going.
Can you tile a full wet room?
Yes — wet rooms are a speciality. The whole area is tanked and the floor falls are set so water runs to the drain and nothing pools, for a proper watertight finish.
What are movement joints and do I need them?
They're deliberate flexible joints that let the floor or wall expand and contract without cracking the tiles. On larger areas and heated floors they're essential, and we put them in as standard where needed.
What is lippage, and how do you avoid it?
Lippage is when one tile edge sits higher than its neighbour, so you can feel the lip. We avoid it with a properly levelled surface, the right adhesive coverage and levelling clips on larger tiles.
Can you do feature walls and patterned tiles?
Yes — feature walls, patterns and herringbone or brick-bond layouts are all part of it. The trick is careful setting-out so the pattern stays balanced across the wall.
Do you tile kitchen splashbacks?
Yes — splashbacks are a nice tidy job. We work neatly around sockets, taps and units for a clean, easy-to-wipe finish.
How do you get the tiles perfectly straight?
It comes from the set-out and the preparation — levelling the surface, marking out the room, working to laser lines and checking constantly as we go. Straight lines aren't luck, they're method.
What adhesive do you use?
We use the right adhesive for the tile and the surface — there's a real difference between what suits a porcelain floor, a heated floor or a plasterboard wall. Using the correct one with full coverage is what stops tiles loosening.
Do you seal natural stone?
Yes — natural stone and marble are porous and need sealing to protect against stains and water, sometimes more than once. We'll explain the upkeep before you commit to stone.
Will there be much mess and dust?
Cutting tiles makes some dust, but we keep it under control, protect the rest of your home and clean up properly each day. You won't be left with a mess.
How long does silicone last, and do you replace it?
Silicone seals last a good while but do eventually discolour or perish, especially in showers. We can re-silicone tired joints to freshen up a bathroom and keep it watertight.
Can you match existing tiles for a repair?
We'll do our best, though exact matches can be tricky if a tile is discontinued. If you've spares from the original job, even better — that's why it's worth keeping a few.
Do you move sanitary ware to tile behind it?
As part of a bathroom job, yes — because we plumb as well as tile, we can disconnect and refit toilets and basins so the tiling runs cleanly behind them. See our bathroom renovations.
Can you tile over an underfloor-heating screed?
Yes — once the screed is fully cured and the system has been commissioned correctly, it's an ideal base for tiling. We allow for the heat with the right adhesive and movement joints.
Do you tile new builds and extensions too?
Yes — tiling is part of our new build and extension work, done alongside the plumbing so it all ties together neatly.
What areas of Cork do you cover?
We're based in Carrigaline and cover Cork city and county, including Douglas, Ballincollig, Midleton, Cobh, Glanmire, Blackrock and the surrounding towns. If you're nearby and not listed, just ask.
How do I get a quote?
Give us a call or send a message on WhatsApp with a few photos and your tile idea. We'll arrange to see the room and put together a clear, written quote with no obligation.
Tiling done properly, by a local team

A finish you'll be proud of.

Whether it's a single feature wall or a full bathroom, you'll get careful preparation, precise tiling and a clean, watertight finish that lasts. Send us your plans or a few photos for a clear written quote — no pressure, no obligation.

Request a quote Discuss your project

Local · Fully insured · Bathroom specialists · Cork city & county