Have you ever faced the challenge of tiling a tricky corner and wondered about the most efficient methods? If you’re a construction and tiling professional, this article is crafted specifically for you. Let’s break down, step by step, the process of “tiling into a corner”, including tricks, real-world examples, expert tools and techniques to achieve flawless finishes that will impress your clients.
How to tile a corner
Mastering the technique of tiling into a corner sets true professionals apart. Poorly finished corners lead to leaks, unappealing visuals and costly repairs. Take into account:
1. Must-have Tools for tiling into a corner
Part of the quality of the job depends on your gear. Make sure your toolbox includes:
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Specialized adhesives: choose the right for the substrate and environment (moisture, traffic, temperature): using the proper mortar keeps tiles secure and leak-free.
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Spatulas and notched trowels: crucial for spreading adhesive with the correct texture
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Tiling tools like a manual tile cutter or a wet tile saw: precision in cuts is vital, especially for angled and corner pieces.
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Corner trims or profiles: perfect for protecting and beautifying edges on outer corners.
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Rubber hammer and sponge: adjust tiles without damage and keep surfaces clean
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Spacers and laser level: maintain joint uniformity and ensure your installation stays straight.
2. Accurate Measurement
There are several methods you can use to measure tiles before cutting them. One way is to place the tile you intend to cut on top of a full tile. Next, position another tile against the wall so that it overlaps with the first one. Using a carpenter’s pencil, mark on the tile the section that extends beyond the overlap, as this is the part that needs to be cut. When applying this technique, make sure to trim a little additional material from the tile to allow room for the grout joint (2-3mm extra).
Another method is to use a tape measure to obtain the correct dimensions. Measure carefully from the top corner of the space you are tiling down to the bottom corner, and then transfer those exact measurements onto the surface of your tile by marking them with a pencil. When marking, it’s a good idea to double-check your numbers to avoid mistakes that could waste materials.
Once your tile is marked, there are several tools available for making the actual cut. Manual tile cutters are commonly used for straight, simple cuts on ceramic tiles. A wet tile saw is specially recommended for precise cuts in thicker or more delicate tiles, such as porcelain or marble, since the water helps reduce dust and prevents the tile from overheating and breaking.
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Examples of wet tile saws: |
Always match the cutting tool to the type of tile and the complexity of the cut. Know more
3. Tiling into a Corner with Trim or just Tile
Explore trim or tile methods:
A. Corner Trim method
This approach guarantees durable resort, especially on crooked walls. Secure it with adhesive and make sure it’s level. Once dry, the trim locks in place, protecting corners from impact and moisture.
Benefits of this method:
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Shields tile edges from damage
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Clean, professional finish
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Disguises minor misalignments
B. Tile-Only Method
You don’t necessarily need plastic trim to finish corners when tiling.
For inside corners (angles under 180º), start by tiling one of the walls first. Spread the adhesive with a notched trowel and press the tiles into place. Be sure to leave a narrow gap between the tiles and the actual corner, since tiles need room to expand slightly. Tile spacers are useful to keep this spacing uniform. Once the first wall is done, continue with the tiles on the adjoining wall.
For outside corners (angles greater than 180º), add an extra step: the tiles at the edge should be cut at an angle (miter cut), to allow both edges to meet cleanly along the corner, creating a sharp, seamless look.
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Tile saws for miter cuts: |
4. How to fill corner joints: grout or caulk?
Over the years, using grout in corners has led to cracks and separation. The recommended solution is caulk (silicone, latex, or acrylic). Fill gaps between tiles and the corner to prevent leaks and movements.
Advantages:
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Flexible for temperature and moisture changes
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Total waterproofing
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Easy maintenance
5. Grout lines, the final touch
When grouting, spread the grout both horizontally and vertically. Wipe away excess with a damp sponge before it dries. Then buff with a dry cloth for a shiny, professional finish. If you want a professional look, try professional joint sealers and polishers to avoid stains and keep your installation looking fresh.
Conclusion
To truly stand out in the world of professional tiling, mastering “tiling into a corner” should be your hallmark. Every challenging corner is an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise.
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