How to compare and choose the best tiling trims
Although tiling trims are a beautiful addition to a tiling project, they also serve a practical purpose, as they designed to cover sharp and rough tile edges. There are so many potential tiling trim styles available, from basic PVC trims through to luxury powder-coated coloured metal trims, and with so many options it is possible to find trims that perfectly match your overall interior design.
However, we know how difficult it can be to compare and choose the best tiling trims, so we have put together this useful guide to help you with your decision.
Step 1: Choosing the right tiling trim size
It is important to take into account the depth of the adhesive layer, as this will increase the total depth slightly. Therefore, the first thing to consider is what size tiling trims you need, as the trim recess will need to match the combined depth of the tile and the adhesive to create a flush finish. In practice, you will usually need to choose a trim depth that is the next size up from the thickness of the tile.
Step 2: Compare the potential trim finishes
In general, the types of tiling trim available are plastic, metal, ceramic, porcelain, and stone, although metal and plastic are the most common types used. A great tip is to think about where the trim will be installed and if you want it to act as a feature within the area. For example, if the trim will be used as an edge within a tiled wall, a contrasting metal trim could add a contemporary touch, especially when matched to the brassware.
Whereas, if the trim will be used to create a join between corner tiles, a finish that matches the tiles could create a more seamless finish. Great examples can be found within our collection of powder coated trims, with colours ranging from granite and sandstone through to simple black and white.
In addition, think about where the tiling trims will be installed. For example, if you are installing trims in a high traffic area, stainless steel trims are likely to be the best option as the durability will ensure the trim maintains its showroom finish. Whereas, for wet areas such as bathrooms, showers and wet rooms, PVC or aluminium trims are likely to be ideal choices as they will not rust.
Step 3: Consider the function of the trim
Although trims are often chosen for aesthetic reasons, it is important to consider practicality and functionality. For example, straight edge trims are often a popular choice as they create a thin profile along the edge of a tile. Whereas, square edge cubec tiling trims are designed to stand out as a feature within a tiled area.
The following are some examples of the most popular types of tile trims and profiles:
• Straight edge trims – These straight or l-shaped trims are designed to cover the edge of an unglazed tile, so are often used as decorative edges along a window reveal, or as a divider trim in a border or transition area.
• Round edge trims – Otherwise known as bullnosed or quadrant tile trims, this type of rounded trim tends to be used on external wall corners which require a curved finish.
• Bath trim – This type of trim is designed to provide a watertight seal between the tiled wall and bath, to create a finished appearance against tiles.
• Formable tile trims – These flexible trims are ideal for use within curved wall or floor installations, with forming machines often used to create an accurate shape before installation.
• Internal tile trims – These tiling trims are designed to finish internal corner joints, such as where a tiled wall meets a worktop or surface.
• Skirting trims – Otherwise known as h-trim and tile to vinyl capping, this hygienic trim is designed to neatly join Altro flooring to tiled walls at skirting level. By removing the bottom right-angled corner of a wall, this trim creates a smooth edge which is easy to clean.
• Cubec trims – These versatile trims are also known as box trims, and are designed to provide a protective yet stylish finish to tiled corners, although they are also used regularly as a border feature between tiles.
• Listello trims – Listello tile trims are flat decorative profiles which are used as dividing strips between tiling installations, such as between two different types of tiles.
• Joint covers – These t-shaped transition strips are designed to cover a joint, simply fill the cavity with silicone and insert the anchoring leg.
• Flat bars – These thin profiles are often used as a dividing strip or border feature between granite, marble, terrazzo wall and floor tiles, or as thread inserts for tile, stone and timber stairs.
• Cover strips – These quick to install strips can be used to cover door thresholds, to create a seamless transition between two floor surfaces or rooms.
• Transition profiles – These profiles are used where two floor surfaces meet at different heights, such as a tiled surface changing to a laminate floor surface. The sloping section prevents a trip hazard and provides protection to each floor covering.
• Stair nosing – These trims are used to create a professional finish to the edge of steps, whilst also improving safety by covering exposed edges, improving grip, and clearly defining steps to minimise trip hazards.
• Protective edging – These protective trims are used on external corners, where they provide a decorative finish whilst also covering existing damage to corners.
Step 4: Choose the trim accessories
The accessories you need will largely depend on the area to be tiled, and there many trim options available that are designed to facilitate installation. For example, if you need to tile around or inside a corner, there are right-angled trim pieces available, with end-caps also available to give a water tight, streamlined finish. In addition, if you need to connect two trim strips, we recommend using connectors which will ensure a continuous professional finish.
Quantum Group NI – Wholesale suppliers of tiling trims and tiling accessories
We hope this blog has provided some inspiration to help you compare and choose the best tiling trims, as there are many aspects to consider. Whether you are searching for high-quality tiles, trims, adhesives, or even tiling tools, we are proud to be a leading supplier of wholesale tiling equipment throughout the UK and Ireland.
Within our range you will find everything from our popular luxury metallic coloured trims through to stone-effect trims that perfectly complement our range of tiles. If you would like to find your nearest stockist of our popular tiling trims or to stock our trims in your own showroom, please contact our knowledgeable team today and we will be more than happy to advise.