Consider These Alternatives To Bullnose Tile Trim When Renovating Your Space

You took time to lay each tile precisely, so the last thing you want to do is put that hard work at jeopardy. Trim pieces around a tiled area make the space look finished and can prolong the life of the tile by keeping the edges from cracking or chipping. Bullnose tile trim is a popular option that has a curved design for an easy transition. However, it can be expensive, it has limited style options, and not all tile offers a matching bullnose option. Bullnose tile alternatives, including metal trim pieces, different types of tile, and caulking, let you customize your tile project.

Caulk is an easy, inexpensive way to finish the edges in areas where you want a watertight seal. Because it protects against moisture, caulk is an ideal option in bathrooms and kitchens. You might use it as the edging after installing shower tiles or a kitchen backsplash. Caulk often works best if you choose tiles that already have smooth edges and a more finished look than raw tiling. This is often the case if you're using glass tiles or tumbled stones. You might also find porcelain tiles with the smoother edges that work well with caulk edging.

If you want a tile border but don't like the look of bullnose, consider alternative tile types. Pencil tile, or pencil liner, is a popular alternative. It's a long, narrow tile, often with a rounded or squared shape. It's raised higher than standard tiles, making it stand out along the wall. Before choosing your pencil tile, make sure the edges are finished to create a clean, neat edge. These pieces are different than pencil tiles with unfinished edges, which can be used throughout a tiled area as an accent to create texture and interest. Pencil liner tiles aren't ideal as floor transitions due to the raised design. V-cap tiles are another specialty tile designed as trim pieces. They feature an L shape that goes over outer corners and edges to protect the tile. You often find them on tiled countertops. 

Another option is to create a glass mosaic border around your tiled area. Glass tiles are the perfect low-maintenance option, and they add contrast when you choose different colors or textures than your main tile. Glass adds a translucent, light-reflecting look to your tiled area and comes in a variety of shapes, from classic squares to unique curves. Another option is to use polished natural stone as the border. When it's polished, natural stone offers a smooth, finished look.

Metal, plastic, and wood trim options create more contrast while still protecting the edges of the tile. Special metal trim pieces, often referred to as Schluter trim, create a sleek, finished edge along your tiled area. The metal comes in various finishes to fit with your decor, and you can choose options that are rounded or squared. Plus, you can cut the metal pieces to the specific length you need. You install Schluter trim differently than bullnose or tile trim, which is put in place after you lay all your tile. Metal edging is installed before you reach the final row of tiles so that you can lay those final tiles over most of the metal and leave only a thin piece of trim visible. You can also choose plastic versions of this tile trim.

Wood trim along your tiled area offers a classic, warm look. Using wood allows you to choose a variety of stain colors or painted finishes to create the desired style. Choose from wide, chunky wood pieces or thin, simple quarter-round wood trim. Since wood can damage easily in damp areas, it's best to avoid this option in your bathroom or in kitchen areas near your sink. Wood transition pieces can also serve as the border for a tile floor where it meets a wood floor.