How To Install Plastic Tile Edge Trim: A Step-by-Step Guide

19/09/2024

When you're tiling a surface, achieving clean, professional-looking edges is just as important as laying the tiles themselves. That's where plastic tile trim comes in handy. No matter your skill level, whether you are working on a DIY project or working on a professional contract, tile trim ensures that your edges are neat, protects the tiles from damage, and provides a seamless finish.

In this blog, we'll discuss the installation process for plastic tile trim and cover essential tips such as how to cut plastic tile trim and how to fit tile trim properly.

What Is Plastic Tile Trim?

Plastic tile trim is a versatile and affordable finishing material that covers and protects exposed tile edges. It’s made from durable PVC or plastic and comes in a range of colours and styles to match your tiles, ensuring a sleek and polished finish. The key benefits of plastic trim include protecting exposed tile edges from chipping and creating a clean and professional look.

Tile trim is available in a variety of colours, sizes ranging from 4mm to 30mm and profiles such as round edge tile trim, square edge tile trim and straight edge tile trim.

Tools & Materials You Will Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Plastic tile trim
Tile adhesive
Tile cutter
Hacksaw or utility knife (for cutting the trim)
Mitre box (for cutting corners)
Tape measure
Notched trowel
Tile spacers
Fine-grit sandpaper

How to Fit Plastic Tile Trim: Step-by-Step

1. Measure the Area

First, measure the area where you plan to install the tile trim. Ensure you know the total length of trim required, accounting for any corners. This will prevent you from running out of materials midway through the project.

2. Choose the Right Size and Colour

Plastic tile trim comes in various sizes, typically ranging from 6mm to 12mm. Choose the trim that fits the thickness of your tiles. Ensure that the trim colour compliments your tiles for a cohesive finish, we stock an extensive range of plastic tile trim such as Straight Edge Plastic Tile Trim Black By Genesis, Square Edge Plastic Tile Trim White by Dural or Schluter JOLLY-P Coloured PVC Straight Edge Tile Trim.

3. Apply Tile Adhesive

Start by applying a thin layer of tile adhesive to the area where the trim will be installed. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly across the surface.

4. Install the Plastic Tile Trim

Once the adhesive is applied, press the plastic tile trim into place, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the edges of the tiles. Use tile spacers if necessary to keep the trim level with the tiles.

5. Lay the Tiles

With the trim in place, continue tiling up to the trim's edge, ensuring the tiles fit snugly against it. Make sure the adhesive sets firmly before applying any pressure to the tile trim.

How to Cut Plastic Tile Trim

1. Measure and Mark

Measure the length of plastic tile trim needed, then mark the trim with a pencil at the point where it needs to be cut. Always measure twice to ensure accuracy.

2. Cut the Trim

For straight cuts, use a fine-toothed hacksaw such as the Bahco 317 Hacksaw or utility knife. Place the trim in a mitre box to ensure a straight and clean cut. If you're working with a small project, a utility knife can work for precise cuts, but larger jobs may require a hacksaw for quicker results.

3. Smooth the Edges

Once you've cut the trim to size, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges and remove any burrs or rough spots, ensuring a clean and polished finish.

How to Cut Plastic Tile Trim Corners

1. Measure the Angle

For external corners, you’ll need to cut the plastic tile trim at a 45-degree angle. Use a mitre box to achieve precise corner cuts. This ensures the trim pieces will fit together perfectly for a smooth, seamless transition around corners.

2. Cut the Corner

Place the tile trim in the mitre box and cut it at a 45-degree angle using a hacksaw. If you're dealing with an internal corner, make sure the cuts are made in opposite directions so that they fit together correctly when installed.

3. Install the Trim

Once the corners are cut, press them into place with adhesive, making sure the angles meet flush at the corner. Smooth any edges or gaps before allowing the adhesive to set.

Installing plastic tile edge trim is an easy and effective way to finish your tiling project with a professional, polished look. By following these steps and ensuring you measure accurately, cut properly, and fit the trim securely, you’ll achieve a clean and durable finish that enhances both the look and lifespan of your tiles.

Whether you're looking to add a finishing touch to your kitchen splashback, bathroom tiles, or any other tiled surface, plastic tile trim is a versatile and affordable option.

Looking for the perfect plastic tile trim? Check out our wide selection of styles and sizes now.