5 Best Options for Finishing Tile Edges

In any tiling project, achieving a polished and long-lasting installation lies in the finer details. Unfinished edges of tiles can easily chip, crack, and become vulnerable to moisture and stains. That's where tile edging options come into play-eliminating sharp angles that may become a hazard and detract from the overall impression.

Edge tiles may seem like a minor detail, yet, they are the final step that keeps your installation looking flawless. Whether it’s finishing edges of a tiled floor, backsplash, fireplace surround, shower niche, or wall. They also facilitate a smooth transition where tiles meet an adjoining surface, such as carpet or hardwood. This seamless transition prevents abrupt edges, resulting in a safer and more defined detail.

Ahead, we’ll explore the 5 best tile edging options available and how to finish tile edges so you can accentuate the visual appeal and function of your project.

Selecting the Right Edging Materials

Tile edging, also referred to as trim, molding, or profile, is a type of finishing piece positioned along the raw borders or corners of a tile installation. In addition to shielding the edges from damage and ensuring longevity, it provides a polished look that becomes a permanent part of the ensemble.

Tile edging options come in different materials, shapes, and finishes and often have matching standard tiles. It’s worth noting that not all trims can be used in any situation. The choice of material depends on a variety of aspects including the style, function, and area of application. Below are some commonly used materials:

Glass: Available in a variety of colors and finishes, glass tile edging options deliver a sleek and elegant look. Like standard tiles, the reflective quality of glass creates striking depth and introduces a radiant glow. Easy upkeep and water-resistance properties make glass pencil trims ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

Ceramic: Edge tiles made from the same material as ceramic tiles are an affordable option that’s easy to install and maintain. If you’re wondering how to finish tile edges and desire a cohesive appearance, ceramic trims ensure seamless color and texture that ties everything together. They are durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Marble: Tile edges concealed with a coordinating marble trim result in a sophisticated and refined aesthetic. But beauty isn’t the only attribute to expect. When properly installed and sealed, marble pencil, baseboard, and chair rail trims are highly durable and suitable for wet areas and outdoor applications.

Preparing the Edges Before Installation

To answer “how to finish tile edges,” the first thing to do is prepare the edges before placing the trim. For a crisp, long-lasting finish, tile borders should be clean, dry, and free of adhesive residue.

This step is crucial as it will ensure that the trim adheres firmly and won’t loosen or crack in the future. If the area isn’t level, use sandpaper or scraper to even it out. Before applying adhesive, plan how the edge tiles will be cut and positioned to fit the specific dimensions.

The next step is to install the trim. To do so, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, edge tiles are laid and grouted as you would standard tiles.

5 Best Tile Edging Options

Edge finishing solutions can be found in various profiles, each serving a unique design and a specific purpose. Below are 5 tile edging options for finishing your project:

1. Pencil liner: Coordinating glass, ceramic, and marble pencil edge tiles are readily available. This molding features a rounded, pencil-like shape that finishes tile borders or creates a smooth transition beautifully. Pencil tile edging options can be laid vertically or horizontally and their sleek and subtle design delivers a contemporary aesthetic.

If your selected standard tiles don’t have a matching pencil trim, then you can opt for one that closely blends into the design or contrasts to draw the eye to the striking beauty of your installation.

2. Flat liner: Flat Liners boast a straight, slender, and flat profile, rendering them more suitable for lining backsplashes that only go partway up. If you’re wondering how to finish tile edges with less ornamentation, flat liner trims achieve a clean, sleek look.

3. Bullnose: One of the most recognizable tile edging options is bullnose. This specialized ceramic trim has a curved profile that yields a smooth transition from the face of the tile to the exposed edges.

It’s a great edge treatment for framing a tiled fireplace surround, backsplash, bathtub surround, shower niche, shower bench, and more. Additionally, a bullnose trim can serve as a decorative piece on the top of a half-tiled wall.

4. Baseboard: To conceal unsightly seams where the wall transitions to another surface, go for baseboard trim. It works particularly well to eliminate the gap left where a tiled wall and floor meet.

Baseboard edge tiles not only create a visually pleasant finishing touch but also prevent moisture from seeping into the walls and floors. A great choice if you’re looking for easy ways on how to finish tile edges and make cleaning simpler in wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.

5. Chair Rail: These ornate tile edging options feature decorative molding with pronounced depth on one side. Chair rail trims sit on top of two different tile types or a tiled surface and drywall. They cater to various projects where a touch of elegance and sophistication is desired. Chair rails are available in various materials including marble and can be found with matching standard tiles for a consistent look.

Conclusion

If wondering how to finish tile edges of your newly installed backsplash, fireplace surround, shower wall, or flooring, choosing one of these tile edging options will elevate your tilework. Each offers a unique look and plays an essential role in preserving the integrity of your installation. Ultimately, your decision will come down to what design complements your project the best.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of finishing tile edges?

Exposed edges appear rough and uneven and are susceptible to chipping and wearing. This may lead to additional maintenance issues. Finishing edges of tile adds a layer of protection, provides a neat detail that enhances the overall aesthetic, and reduces cleaning efforts.

2. Do all types of tiles require edge finishing?

Edge tiles are unnecessary when working with glass tumbled stone or porcelain that has naturally-finished edges.

3. How do I determine the right finishing option for my tile project?

First, consider the proportion between the trim style and the size and depth of the tiles. The goal is to lean toward tile edging options that fit flush with the tile. A too large or too small trim can disrupt the visual harmony of the installation and may not provide adequate protection.

When measuring up, account for the adhesive layer and choose a trim that is one size up from the thickness of your tile to ensure a smooth frame. Make sure the material is approved for the area of use.

You can also choose a finishing piece based on your design vision. Desire something sleek and minimalist? A pencil liner trim that blends in will do. Want something more pronounced? Then explore tile edging options with a wider design like chair rail trim for a stand-out feature.

4. How can I maintain the finish on tile edges?

Clean edge trimming the way you would standard tiles. That is, wipe regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Warm water and a mild cleaning solution can be used for a deeper clean. Marble tile edging options are porous and require periodic sealing to prevent water ingress and staining. Avoid acidic cleaners that can etch and damage the tile surface.

5. Can I add finishing to existing tile edges?

While an edge trim should be installed simultaneously with standard tiles, adding finishing to the perimeter of an existing installation is possible. Choose a trim that matches the depth of your tiles and follow manufacturer guidelines on how to finish tile edges to achieve a polished look.

6. How do I know if my tile installation requires edge finishing?

Tile installation requires a specialized trim piece when the borders have sharp corners, unsightly rough and ragged lines, or transition to another surface material. In any of these scenarios, an edge profile will enhance the aesthetic appeal and longevity of your installation.

7. Can edge finishing options be customized to match my tile design?

For standard tiles without matching tile edging options, it is possible to create customized pieces. You can ask your installer to make one out of the tiles you have selected. Options like porcelain and natural stone can be cut, grinded down, and shaped into bullnose edge tiles.