A backsplash is an essential element in any kitchen design. Not only does it serve a practical purpose by protecting the walls from splashes and spills, but it also provides visual interest and helps tie together the look of the entire kitchen. Choosing the right materials and properly installing your backsplash are key to achieving the look you want. One important consideration when installing a backsplash is how to terminate or “end” the tile at cutoff points like corners, edges, and around windows and outlets. Careful planning and execution in ending the tile ensures a polished finish. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ending tile on a backsplash.
Getting the Right Supplies
Ending tile properly relies heavily on having the right supplies on hand. Before starting your project, make sure you have the following:
- Tile cutting tools – Tile nippers, tile cutter, wet saw and eye protection for cutting any specialty ending pieces.
- Grout– Matching sanded grout for joints between tile pieces. Make sure to have grout in a color that complements the tile.
- Caulk – Clear silicone caulk for sealing gaps and joints. This is key for clean termination points.
- Spacers – Plastic spacers to maintain even grout joints between tiles.
- Adhesive – Thinset mortar designed for walls and backsplashes. This ensures a strong bond.
- Grout float – A tool with a sponge-like surface for smoothing grout into joints.
- Grout sealer – Protects grout from stains after installation.
Having the right supplies readily available will make tiling tasks like precise tile cutting and grouting much easier for a flawless finished end.
Planning Your Layout
Achieving a pro-looking finished edge starts with careful planning. Take measurements of your backsplash area and make a layout for tiling. Consider the following:
- Mark the outlet and window locations on your plan. This allows you to map out any tile cutting around these openings.
- Determine the tile pattern and arrangement. A basic brick pattern is common. This will guide how your edges and end tiles align.
- Calculate the number of whole, uncut tiles needed first. Then determine specialty cut pieces needed.
- Sketch out which tiles will have exposed edges that require finished sides. These are focal points where details matter.
- Note any inside and outside corners. These may require bullnose tiles or special cuts.
Having a tile blueprint minimizes mistakes and ensures your finished termination points integrate seamlessly into the overall design.
Cutting Tiles
Cutting backsplash tiles to fit is required around edges, outlets, windows and for notched custom pieces. Follow these tips for clean cuts:
Use the Right Tools
The tile material determines the cutting method. Ceramic and porcelain can be scored and snapped using tile nippers. For intricate cuts, use a wet saw with a diamond blade. Marble, granite and glass tiles require a wet saw to avoid chipping.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Always double check your measurements and mark the tile before making the cut. Tile is unforgiving and cuts are permanent.
Cut on the Proper Side
Cut rough edges should face the wall when possible. If cutting a front corner piece, angle the blade to expose the glazed finished side.
Take Your Time
Rushing leads to uneven, jagged cuts. Cut slowly and steadily for smooth edges. Let the tool do the work.
Use Water
Wet saws use water to cool and lubricate the blade. Turn dry cuts into wet cuts by dipping the tile or using a spray bottle. The water reduces friction and overheating.
With the right cutting approach, your end tiles should fit perfectly into place.
Dealing With Outlets
Outlets pose a special challenge for backsplashes. The key is planning tile placement to conceal cut edges. Here are tips for a seamless look:
Mark the Outline
Trace the outlet onto your backsplash before installing tiles. Use painters tape to mark the perimeter.
Cut Tiles to Fit Inside
Size tiles to fit within the outlet outline, not over it. This avoids exposed, unfinished edges around the outlet.
Maintain Joint Spacing
Cut pieces to frame the outlet should have the same grout joint spacing as the rest of the backsplash. Keep them uniform.
Position Cut Edges Smartly
Arrange cut tiles so unfinished edges face into the outlet space and cleaned finished edges are outward facing.
Use a Contrasting Border
A coordinating border tile around the outlet masks any imperfect cuts and gives it a built-in finished look.
With careful planning, you can end tiles successfully around any outlets for a polished look.
Creating Finished Inside Corners
The intersection of two walls creates an inside corner that requires special treatment. Here are tips for a flawless finished inner corner:
Use Bullnose Tiles
Bullnose tiles with rounded finished edges are ideal for inside corners. They eliminate the sharp grout joint that would be visible here.
Make Precision 45 Degree Cuts
For non-bullnose tile, make precise 45 degree miter cuts to form the corner. File any rough edges for a perfect fit.
Cut Tiles Long
When butting tile into a corner, cut the pieces slightly long. This avoids potential gaps from angles being slightly off.
Align Grout Lines Perfectly
Make sure grout joints align exactly at the corner. Any misalignment is obvious and looks sloppy.
Apply Silicone Caulk
After grouting, use clear silicone caulk in the corner joint for flexibility and waterproofing. Wipe smooth for a polished finish.
With careful tile work and the right finishing techniques, inside corners will look professionally installed.
Ending at Outside Corners
Outside corners also require special treatment when ending tile. Follow these tips for a clean finish:
Wrap Tile Around the Corner
Run tiles long so they wrap onto the adjoining wall. This anchors them firmly. Leave a slight gap for caulk.
Use Bullnose on Exposed Edges
A bullnose tile reduces the chance of chipping on an exposed outside edge.
Make Precise Cuts
For non-bullnose tiles, cut an exact 45 degree bevel to form the corner. Scrape cut edges smooth.
Maintain Joint Spacing
Keep grout line spacing the same on both walls. Any inconsistency will be obvious on the corner edge.
Caulk the Joint
Always caulk the joint between the walls. This seals the seam and allows for movement. Tool into any gaps for a smooth look.
With an attention to detail on outside corners, you can achieve flawless termination points.
Creating Finished End Pieces
Partial tiles are often needed to end a backsplash precisely where intended. Follow these tips for great looking end pieces:
Mark Your End Point
Use painters tape to indicate the height along the wall where you want the tile to end. This guides your layout.
Use Bullnose on Exposed Ends
Bullnose tile caps the end neatly with its finished edge. For other tile, chamfer any exposed cuts.
Cut Small Pieces to Fit
Precisely measure and cut small pieces to fill the last row at your end point. Use tile spacers for uniform gaps.
Fill Any Gaps
If small gaps remain after placing end tiles, fill with caulk and tool smooth. Allow to dry completely before grouting.
Grout and Seal
After adding any final end pieces, grout and seal as normal. Check for missing joints or uneven spots near your end point.
With careful planning and precision cutting, you can achieve a clean finished termination line in your backsplash.
Grouting Perfectly
Grout is critical not only between tiles, but also for a neat finished edge. Follow these pro tips for grouting backsplash end points flawlessly:
Remove All Spacers
Remove every spacer possible from around endings and edges before grouting. Remaining spacers can block full grout adhesion.
Grout Small Areas
Work in small sections so the grout stays moist and workable before wiping. Concentrate on edges.
Pack Grout Tightly
Hold the float at a 45 degree angle and pack tightly into joints, leaving no gaps or voids.
Smooth Once Over Lightly
Once packed, make only one pass lightly over the joint to smooth. Overworking can pull grout out.
Clean Edges Thoroughly
Wipe any smears or haze off bullnose edges diligently. Grout residue ruins the clean finish.
Check Your Work
After wiping, carefully inspect all end grout joints for consistency in spacing and smoothness. Fix any areas as needed.
With practice and patience, grouting end points can look professionally finished.
Caulking Key Areas
Caulk is an essential finishing product for backsplashes. Use high quality silicone caulk in these key areas:
Perimeter Joints
Apply a bead where tile meets the wall or countertop. Smooth with a damp finger for a perfect finish.
Seams Around Windows and Doors
Fill any slight gaps where tile abuts trim or casings with caulk for impervious joints.
Between Substrate Materials
Seal the joint where tile transitions to drywall or other surfaces with caulk to prevent moisture intrusion.
Inside Corners
Tool caulk into inside corner joints for waterproofing, especially in wet areas like near a sink.
End Gaps
Any slight spacing issues where end tiles meet can be filled with caulk for a seamless look.
Take advantage of caulk anywhere tiles meet another surface. Well-sealed joints prevent damage and complete the polished finish.
Avoiding Common Ending Mistakes
Attention to detail is crucial when ending backsplash tiles. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Forgetting planning and layout. Measure precisely and use spacers consistently.
- Poor tile cutting technique. Rushed or sloppy cuts result in uneven edges.
- Grout gaps and voids. Pack tightly and ensure full coverage, especially on ends.
- Misaligned grout lines. Any inconsistency near the ending is obvious.
- Forgetting to caulk. Fail to seal joints and moisture damage can occur.
- Caulking late. Don’t caulk until after grouting for best adhesion.
- No tile edge protection. Use bullnose or protect exposed edges from chipping.
- No finished edges. Exposed rough cuts look unprofessional. Chamfer for smoothness.
- Incorrect grout color. Contrasting grout detracts from the termination point.
With care and practice, you can avoid missteps and achieve perfectly installed backsplash endings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any tile be used for a backsplash?
Technically any tile material can be installed as a backsplash, but ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles are best. Their durability makes them ideal for a high-use kitchen area. Glass tiles add beauty but require special cutting tools.
Should backsplash tile match countertops?
Countertop and backsplash tile do not need to match exactly. Many designers recommend coordinating them instead. For example, use the same materials but in different colors or patterns.
Should I use different tile on the end pieces?
Using a separate decorative tile solely on the very end pieces helps finish a backsplash design. For example, add a row of mosaic or border tile to neatly cap off your main tile installation.
How do I cut holes in tile for outlets and switches?
Use a rotary tool or oscillating tool with a special tile cutting blade to cut accurate holes for outlets. Another option is to remove small sections of a tile edge to fit around receptacles. Angle cuts to slip tiles partially behind the box.
How long does backsplash tile installation take?
The tile installation itself can be completed in a day or weekend for most DIYers. Allow additional time for drying adhesive, grouting, and caulking. Professional installers often complete standard backsplash projects within one work day.
Conclusion
Installing a backsplash is an opportunity to add artistry and visual interest to your kitchen design. Paying special attention to properly ending tiles at terminating points gives your backsplash a refined finished look. With the right materials, tools, planning, precision, and care, you can achieve beautiful results that look professionally installed. Use the techniques in this guide for ending tile on your backsplash and enjoy a stunning showpiece that elevates your whole kitchen.