Tile trims are used to finish tile edges and corners to create a professional finish, and there are a variety of possible tile trims to choose from. Whether you opt for a standard bullnose trim, a metal trim, a PVC trim or a wooden trim, it is possible to create a traditional or contemporary finish thanks to the array of potential design choices.
In this guide we take you through everything you need to know about finishing tiled edges and corners, so that you can protect tile edges and give a sleek finish to the job.
Compare tile trim finishes
There are a variety of tile finishing options available, including stone trims, bullnose porcelain and ceramic trims, and plastic or metal trims. For many years bullnose tiles and quarter round tiles were the most popular choices. However, in recent years, trims, edging and border profiles have increased in popularity, and today it is possible to choose from a wide variety of metal and PVC trims, which are designed to offer a durable, attractive and cost-effective solution.
In particular, metal trims are a great solution for areas which undergo high levels of abrasion, such as floors and shower tiling. A great tip is to match your trim to your fixtures and fittings, so if you are installing stylish brass taps in a bathroom, a matching brass tile edge trim would be a great choice.
Alternatively, for a more understated finish, there are aluminium stone finish trims available with options such as granite, sand stone and bath stone. Although, the most cost-effective options are the plastic PVC tile trims, which are available in colours such as white, grey and jasmine.
Choosing the best tile trims
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.
Installing tile trims
Step 1: Measuring tile trims
Before you start work, you will need to measure the areas where trim needs to be installed, so that you can accurately calculate the length required of each linear trim section.
Step 2: Cutting tile trims
Hold the trim in place using clamps and then use a hacksaw to cut the required lengths. If you are creating a corner area using trims, it is important to take care and match the corners evenly with a square or 45-degree mitre joint. A square cut will be the easiest option; however, a mitred joint will give a more professional finish
Step 3: Adhering trims
The bonding area of the trim is designed to sit beneath the tile, so it is important to ensure that enough mortar is used to bond the trim to the tile and the surface below. You will need a strong adhesive and a trowel to ensure sufficient coverage. The trims should be left to dry and set overnight.
Step 4: Grout application
Fill any gaps between the trim and the tiles with grout and allow to dry, then apply a sealer to the surface.
We hope that this blog has provided you with some useful information about tile trims, so that you can choose and install tile trims with confidence. As leading wholesale suppliers of tile trims and movement joints, we offer a variety of options including everything from straight edge trims and formable trims to listello trims and transition trims. To find out more about stocking our wide range of trims, or to find your nearest stockist, please contact our team today.