Finishing tile edges without bullnose and trim pieces

Tiles have the power to add a drastic and beautiful statement into any space. And when it comes to the design options available, there is an endless list of tiles that mimic natural stone, wood grains, mosaics, porcelains, and glass. In the past, most of these tile designs were equipped with trims or bullnose pieces that would complete the look and make the space feel seamless. However, the updated and newer tile collections may or may not come with a bullnose. So, what to do in such a situation? Well, here is a list of 3 easy ways to finish the tile edges seamlessly without the use of a bullnose tile. Let’s have a look!

Caulk The Edge

3 Easy Ways To Finish Tile Edges Without Using Bullnoses

This is one of the easiest ways to finish a shower wall tile or any wall tile edge without creating a messy look! Yes, it’s true that some of the tiles don’t require a bullnose at all, like shower floor tiles. Materials like glass tumbled stone, and porcelain has naturally-finished edges that may not require a separate edge piece to integrate or create a polished and cohesive look. So, in such a case, all you have to ensure is to edge the tile to the end and simply caulk the edges. 

Ensure that the tiles are smoothly-packed and are extremely water-tight. And you can simply do this with the help of a masking tape that joins the grout from the edge of the last tile. 

Rail Moldings

3 Easy Ways To Finish Tile Edges Without Using Bullnoses

The raw edges of the wall tiles, such as a subway tile may look quite cheap and disproportionate. Hence, in such a case, you can also consider styling the rail moldings that can create a smooth and molding-like look. Choose a rail that complements the tile (color and texture) and then carefully place it either horizontally or vertically to create a smooth edge and complete the look.

These thin and decorative moldings can create a beautiful dimension in the room and can play a great transition between the two varying materials. And believe me, it’s not necessary to always pick a closely-related color. Sometimes, you can also choose a sense of contrast to add depth to the room.

Create Your Own Bullnose

1"x6" Bullnose Tile - 1016 Costa Rica | Handmade by Mercury Mosaics

One of the most challenging ways to finish the tile edges - creating your own bullnose is another idea that you can have an eye on. So, if you don’t like the idea of moldings or matching the bullnose - it’s generally best to get one of your own. For solid materials like natural stone and porcelain wall tiles, you can grind them down and shape each piece for an elegant finished-edge look. If you consider the DIY option, you can use the blade to grind down the edge and form a curve that’s rather playing a seamless and cohesive look.

Using a Metal Tile Trim Edge Profile

Schluter Profiles

Metal trim edge profiles have become very popular in the last few years. Rather than using many small pieces of a bullnose or pencil liner tile with grout in between them, you can use a single piece of a metal trim edge profile such as Schutler Profiles, cut to fit the exact length of the tile job. The result is a seamless and clean profile on the edge of the tile. This is the ideal solution for that perfect bathroom tile that doesn't have a bullnose or pencil liner available.

Although most of these tile trims are made of metal, they come in a variety of colors such as silver, grey, black, white, copper, titanium, charcoal, gold, and more, that will certainly fit into your project design aesthetics.

Summing It Up

You see - even if you can’t find the coordinating bullnose piece - it’s still easier to have one or create an illusion of one.  Apart from the above-mentioned ideas, you can also use a metal edge that will beautifully make a contrast and statement throughout your room. So, are you excited to incorporate any of the ideas? Well, do let me know in the comments below!

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