An Easy Guide to Fitting Tile Trim

If you have recently installed tile in your home, it's important that you fit a trim that blends seamlessly with the floor. 

This not only adds character to the room, but it's essential for protecting your tiles from chipping and damage from wear and tear. 

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional, fitting trim is an easy process once you start, and our guide will walk you through it.

What You Will Need

Before beginning the process, you need to prepare the necessary tools and materials. This includes: 

• PVC, metal or aluminium tile trim
• Adhesive and grout
• Measuring tape and pencil
• Tile cutter or hacksaw
• Mitre box
• Notches trowel or spatula
• Silicone sealant and caulking gun
• Spirit or laser-level

PPE: You must protect yourself when working with chemicals and sharp tools. Wear safety gloves and goggles to shield your hands and eyes from debris and prevent injury.

The Types of Tile Trim

There are various types of tile trim that you can get for your home. We recommend choosing a style that blends well with your tiles and your home's interior.

• Metal tile trim: Known for their durability and sleek appearance, this is ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. 
• PVC tile trim: PVC is a flexible and affordable option, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms with high moisture levels. 
• Ceramic tile trim: Ceramic trim matches the texture and colour of ceramic tiles and is best used where a seamless look is desired.
• Wood tile trim: This provides a natural, warm look ideal for living rooms or around wooden features.

How to Prepare the Area

You must have a clean and appropriate area to work with. Start by removing any obstructing objects and furniture and mop or vacuum to remove debris, dirt, and grease.

Asses the tiles for any cracks or uneven areas and address them before continuing. Then, thoroughly clean the surface of the tiles with a cleaning solution and a sponge or scraper.

Once the surface has been cleaned, a light sanding may be necessary for surfaces that are too smooth or glossy. This will help the adhesive bond more effectively. 

A Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Tile Trim

1. Measure and plan the Trim

Use a tape measure to accurately measure the area where the tile trim will be placed. Ensure to measure all edges and corners. 

Plan where the trim will be placed, considering any corners or cuts that will need to be made.

2. Cut the Tile Trim

Select the appropriate amount of trim based on your measurements. Then, use a tile cutter or hacksaw to cut the trim, cutting at a 45-degree angle for corner pieces. 

Use a mitre box for precision in making angled cuts for metallic or hard plastic trim.

3. Dry Fit the Tile Trim

Before applying the adhesive, lay the trim out how you want to apply it. This will allow you to make any adjustments and see what the finished look will look like. 

Adjust and recut any pieces if necessary for a secure fit. 

4. Add the Adhesive 

Apply a thin layer of tile adhesive with a notched trowel along the edge where the trim will be placed. Ensure the adhesive is spread evenly.

Refer to the manufacturer guidelines for your specific trim to choose the appropriate adhesive. 

5. Fixing and Tiling

Press the tile trim into the adhesive, ensuring a secure placement. Use a spirit level to check if the trim is straight. 

Then, wipe away any excess adhesive with a damp cloth. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for drying the adhesive.

Once it has set, start placing the tiles, aligning them with each other. Use a spacer to maintain consistent gaps for the grout.

6. Adding Grout

After the tiles and adhesive have set, apply the grout between the tiles with a grout float. 

Once it has been applied, remove any excess grout with a damp sponge. 

7. Sealing and Finishing

After the grout is set, apply sealant along the edge of the tiles where the trim meets it. This is a vital step for areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.

Clean the tiles and trim with a soft cloth to remove any grout or residue.

Choose Beesley and Fildes for your Tile Trim

At Beesley and Fildes, we sell a range of tile trim for your tiles. Our trim is designed to increase the lifespan of your floor, as well as adding detail and creating a seamless finish. 

With a variety of options to choose from, such as plastic and metal trim, your tiles will be protected and flourishing in no time! Browse our range below or contact our team of experts for more information.