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How Do I Finish Tile Edges? A Simple Guide to Tile Edge Trim

To finish a tile edge, set a trim profile in the thinset as you tile. The trim covers the cut edge, protects it from chipping and gives a clean line. Pick the shape you like (rounded, square or straight), then pick the height for your tile's thickness.

Shower niche in beige tile, edged with a slim black metal trim

Why do tile edges need a trim?

When you cut a tile, the cut side shows the body of the tile, not the glaze. That edge looks unfinished and can chip. A trim covers it. The FloorBox JOLLY page says the trim "prevents tile edges from chipping", and the RONDEC page says it "prevents tile chipping".

You need a trim wherever a tile edge stays in view:

  • the top of a backsplash
  • the edge of a tiled wall
  • a bathtub surround
  • outside corners
  • an exposed floor edge

Which tile edge trim shape should I choose?

There are three common shapes. Pick the one you like: they all cover the cut edge.

  • Rounded (bullnose): Schluter RONDEC is a bullnose trim for wall corners and the edge of tiled surfaces. Inside and outside corners, end caps and sink corners are sold as accessories.
  • Square: Schluter QUADEC is a square edge trim. Matching 90° inside and outside corners are listed.
  • Slim and straight: Schluter JOLLY is a slim L-shaped trim. Its page calls it the "ideal trim for the top edge of a tiled wall, backsplash, and bathtub surround". Matching 90° corners are listed.

For a floor edge, Schluter SCHIENE is a floor and wall edge profile with a minimum reveal, so very little metal shows. Where tile meets a different floor, you need a transition strip instead; see Which Transition Strip Do I Need Between Two Floors?

Shower niche in beige tile, edged with a slim black metal trim

What size tile trim do I need?

Trim is sold by height. On FloorBox, JOLLY comes in 6, 8, 10 and 12.5 mm, and RONDEC and QUADEC come in 10 and 12.5 mm.

Choose the trim height for your tile's thickness. Check the thickness on the tile's product page; if you're unsure, contact us. Schluter's own JOLLY install steps start the same way: select the profile for the tile's thickness and format.

Trims come in lengths of 8' 2-1/2" (250 cm), and some JOLLY trims come in 10'. Measure the edges you need to cover, then count how many lengths you need.

Which finish should I pick?

Most people match the trim to the faucets or to the tile. FloorBox lists finishes such as matte white, bright white, brushed nickel, satin black, satin anodized aluminum and stainless steel, plus PVC for RONDEC. The RONDEC page says it is "ideal for matching tile and grout colors".

The JOLLY and RONDEC pages list indoor use only, so don't use them outdoors.

How do I install tile edge trim?

Set the trim as you tile, not after.

  1. Spread thinset where the trim goes.
  2. Press the trim's perforated leg into the thinset. On JOLLY, the anchoring leg has trapezoid-shaped holes that grip the thinset.
  3. Trowel thinset over the leg, then set the tile tight against the trim, leaving the grout joint. On JOLLY and RONDEC, the built-in joint spacer sets the joint for you.
  4. At inside and outside corners, use the matching corner pieces. For a curve, JOLLY has radius perforations so it can bend.
  5. Grout the joint between the tile and the trim like the other joints.

For thinset and grout basics, see How to Install Floor Tiles. Thinset is in Mortars.

Where do trims go in a backsplash or shower?

Backsplash: at the top and on any open side, a slim trim like JOLLY or a rounded RONDEC gives a clean edge. The JOLLY page names backsplashes as an ideal use. Planning one behind the stove? See What Backsplash Should Go Behind the Stove, and Should It Go to the Ceiling?

Shower: use a trim on the open edges of the tiled walls and at outside corners, with the matching corner pieces. Building a shower with no curb? See What Is an Italian Shower, and How Do You Build a Curbless Shower?

Browse all trims in Edge & Decorative Profiles, or contact us if you're unsure which size fits your tile.

Frequently asked questions

How do I finish the edge of a tile backsplash?

Set a slim trim like JOLLY or a rounded RONDEC at the top and open sides as you tile. The JOLLY page names backsplashes as an ideal use.

What is the difference between bullnose and square tile trim?

Only the shape of the visible edge: rounded (RONDEC) or square (QUADEC). Both protect the tile edge.

Can I add tile edge trim after the tile is installed?

Not cleanly: the trim's leg goes under the tile, in the thinset. Plan it before you start tiling.

How do I finish an outside corner on a tiled wall?

Use the matching outside corner piece for your trim. RONDEC and QUADEC list them as accessories.

Can I use this trim outdoors?

The JOLLY and RONDEC pages list indoor use only, so check the product page before an outdoor job.