How To Style And Finish Tile Edges

We all know that tiles can make a statement however, even with the cheapest and simplest of tiles, a little embellishment around the edges can transform the finished look. In this blog, we walk you through the different ways you can style and finish tile edges to create a variety of looks.

In the technical sense, the edges of tiles are typically left exposed and unglazed, making them look unsightly and susceptible to moisture which can make them difficult to clean. However, using a finishing touch like a trim or capping piece not only protects the tiles from damage but also enhances their appearance.

Although a tile trim has a practical purpose, it doesn’t mean it can’t look fantastic too! Here are some of our favourite ways to use tile trims to finish the edges of your tiles and neaten the appearance of exposed tiles.

If you have opted for real marble tiles, chances are you favour a more classic look. In that case, we recommend choosing a marble profile capping piece to neatly finish the edges of your marble tiles. These capping pieces not only exude luxury but also lend themselves to traditionally styled interiors.

Alternatively, if you want a more modern look, consider opting for a pencil capping piece instead. It has a streamlined, rounded finish that is sleeker and thinner than its thicker profile counterpart. With less ornamentation, it feels more contemporary and you have the choice between polished and matt finishes depending on the Carrara tiles you’ve chosen.

Capping pieces are not only a great way to protect and finish tiles edges but they are a versatile solution. Using a capping piece means you can opt for a half or three-quarter tiled wall and paint the top of your wall to help soften the scheme. Alternatively, you can use the capping pieces as decorative skirting if you want to use your marble tiles instead of a skirting board.

If you have more traditional tiles, our ceramic capping pieces from the Minton Hollins range perfectly coordinate with their tile counterparts. This means that you can create a fluid, glossy finish to your wall tiles.

Back in the Victorian times, capping pieces were popularised because tiling only half a wall was cheaper and more practical for cleaning. Plus, you could easily add personality to a space by wallpapering the wall above and the capping piece would create the perfect finish to help section off the tile.

But you don’t have to go for solid colour; you can mix and match with patterns and colours, so you can go as traditional or as contemporary as you want! In this look, we love this classic Delft pattern with a soft blue capping mixed with the textured wood panelling above for rustic country charm.

For fans of contemporary interiors, a box trim is a great way to finish tile edges. A box trim is a wider profile tile strip that is visible from all angles, unlike its straight-edge counterpart which sits neatly and discreetly on top of your tile. This tile finish can accentuate the edge of your tiles, creating a border-like effect within your tiled wall for an added lustre.

For a more rustic finish, go for our Foundry trim which is a real brass trim that will age over time. Or, for something a little more retro, go for the Complements box trim in soft copper, it complements a range of colours and tile finishes, adding character to your space.

If you’ve chosen wood or marble effect tiles, we recommend opting for a matching trim to finish the tile edges. Not only do coordinating tile trims offer a sleek, modern look but they also provide a seamless practical finish.

For a refreshingly cool colour-blocking look, consider adding a matt trim in a coordinating colour, such as those from our Matrix Collection. These tile trims perfectly match each of the 23 colours in the Matrix Collection, whether you choose the matt or gloss version of your favourite coloured tile. Alternatively, if you want a graphic finish, then finish your tiles with a contrasting trim to make them stand out.

So, how will you finish your tile’s edges? With a plethora of choices, you can really get creative with your tiled space! For more of our top tricks, why not check out our guide on how to choose and fit tile trims?