These specialty tilesfinish off the installationand hide the unfinished edges of field tiles.

When purchasing tile edge trim or borders, buy from the same manufacturer as the field tiles.

When you plan your tile layout, include these tiles to get a good idea of the final look.

Types of Trim Tiles

Credit:BHG / Julie Bang

Tile edge trims fall into two categories: surface trim and radius trim.

Tile edge trims have one or two rounded edges for use along the perimeter of walls and countertops.

You also can install it as abase tile for a floor.

gray bathroom with white tile

Credit: Adam Albright

Some trim tiles are made especially for countertops.

Quarter-round and outside corners provide a smooth and stylish transition between thecountertop surfaceand the front edges.

Use radius trim on the perimeters where you have installed backerboard overdrywall.

shower patterned floor blue tiles

Credit: Edward Gohlich

V-cap Edging

V-cap tile edge trim allows you to finish almost anytile installationwith professional-looking results.

With an L-shaped design, it’s used to cover the outer edges of a tiled surface.

Both legs of the cap require back-buttering with adhesive.

blue geometric wallpaper in modern bathroom

Credit: Jay Wilde

Base Tiles

Like baseboards, base tiles finish a floor installation by joining thewall tilewith the flooring.

Those made specifically for this purpose have a coved foot at the base.

Bullnosefloor tilesare also sometimes available.

white bathroom vanity

Credit: Jean Allsopp

Borders and Accent Tiles

Borders and accent tilesadd style to a tile installation.

A border tile edge trim is usually a narrow length used to finish an edge.

Before trying it, understand that making your own trim demands accuracy and effort.

Thresholds for Tile

Make frequent comparisons to tiles you have already shaped.

Use a caulk that matches the grout’s color and consistency (sanded or unsanded).