Tile Trim

Tile trim isn't always essential, but it gives tiled edges a clean, professional finish and protects the exposed edge of the tile from chipping or damage. It's particularly useful where tiles meet a different surface — such as a tiled splashback that stops mid-wall, a shower enclosure edge, or a tiled window reveal. Without trim, exposed tile edges are often left with visible adhesive or rough cuts that are difficult to grout neatly.

The trim size should always be slightly larger than the thickness of your tile, as you need to account for the bed of adhesive beneath it. As a general rule, add 2mm to your tile thickness to get the right trim size — so an 8mm tile would need a 10mm trim, and a 10mm tile would need a 12mm trim. To find your tile thickness, check the product specification or measure the tile directly. If you're unsure, it's always better to go slightly larger than slightly smaller — a trim that sits a little proud of the tile face is far easier to work with than one that's too shallow.

Straight edge trim (sometimes called an L-shaped or angle trim) sits flush against the face of the tile with a flat return that tucks behind the tile. It creates a slim, low-profile edge and is the most common choice for wall tiles. Square edge trim (sometimes called a U-section or box trim) wraps around the tile edge more fully, creating a chunkier, more visible profile. It can also be used decoratively as a feature strip or listello between tile fields.

Plastic (PVC) trim is a cost-effective choice for standard domestic wall tiling — it's easy to cut, lightweight, and perfectly adequate for most bathrooms and kitchens. Metal trim is more durable, holds its finish better over time, and is the better choice for floors, wet rooms, high-traffic areas, or anywhere the trim edge will be prominently visible. Metal trim is also available in a wider range of decorative finishes — brushed brass, matt black, gold — making it a popular choice where the trim is intended to complement the tile as part of the overall design.

Yes, though not all trim is suitable for both. Plastic trim is generally recommended for walls only — it can flex or crack underfoot. Metal trim in aluminium or stainless steel is suitable for both walls and floors. If you're trimming a floor tile edge — for example at a step, threshold, or transition to another floor surface — choose a metal profile and check the product specification confirms floor use.

Tile trim is installed during tiling, not after. The trim is bedded into the tile adhesive at the edge of the tiled area before the tiles are laid. The tile is then butted up against the trim so its face sits flush with the trim's outer edge. The trim is not grouted over — grout is applied between the tiles and up to the trim as normal, leaving the trim face exposed. Trim is cut to length using a mitre saw or tin snips (metal) or a sharp craft knife (plastic). Corners can be mitred at 45° for a neat finish.