Backsplashes make a huge visual impact in kitchens and bathrooms. However, improperly finished tile edges can really detract from the look. Taking the time to properly finish the edges of your backsplash tiles is an important final step that makes a big difference in the final appearance. There are several techniques for finishing tile edges, depending on the look you want to achieve.
What is a Backsplash?
A backsplash is a vertical surface, usually in kitchens and bathrooms, that is covered with tile, metal, glass, or other decorative materials. It serves both decorative and functional purposes:
- Visually extends wall surfaces and creates an interesting focal point
- Protects the walls from splashes, spills, and moisture
- Allows you to easily wipe away messes on continuous surface
Backsplashes most commonly appear behind sinks, stoves, and countertops – areas prone to water exposure and cooking splatters. They typically range from 4-6 inches in height.
The most popular backsplash materials are ceramic and porcelain tile. Glass, metal, and stone backsplashes are also trendy choices. The type of material determines what finishing techniques can be used on the edges.
Why Finish Backsplash Tile Edges?
Finishing the edges of backsplash tiles serves several purposes:
- Enhanced appearance – It gives a smooth, polished look. Jagged edges look sloppy and detract from the beauty of the tile itself.
- Protects edges – It seals and strengthens vulnerable corners and edges. Raw tile edges absorb water and can crack, chip or become damaged over time.
- Improved functionality – Finished edges prevent buildup of grime, grease and bacteria. They make the backsplash much easier to clean.
- Longer lifespan – Sealing the tile edges helps prevent moisture damage and extends the life of the backsplash.
- Consistency – It ensures all edges have the same look, instead of random rough edges.
In short, finishing the backsplash tile edges well is a must for both aesthetic and practical reasons.
When to Finish Backsplash Edges
The best time to finish backsplash tile edges is after installing the tiles but before applying grout. Grout often chips or cracks tile edges, so finishing them beforehand provides protection.
Steps for timing of finishing backsplash edges:
- Install backsplash tiles using thinset mortar and spacers.
- Clean excess mortar and dust off tile edges.
- Finish the edges using desired technique.
- Allow finished edges to cure fully.
- Apply grout between tiles.
- Seal grout lines after drying for waterproofing.
Finishing the edges prior to grouting streamlines the process. The grout acts as a final seal for the edges too.
Supplies Needed
Here are the supplies needed, depending on which finishing technique you choose:
- Tile edge finishing stone, assorted grits
- Wet tile saw with diamond blade
- Tile nippers
- Carbide scraping tool
- 400 & 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper
- Masking tape
- Soft dry cloth
- Sealant or grout
You likely already have many of these supplies on hand. Nippers, sandpaper, tape and cloths can be easily found at hardware stores. Choose finishing supplies suitable for your tile type.
Techniques for Finishing Tile Edges
There are several options for finishing the edges of backsplash tiles. Each creates a slightly different look:
1. Grinding with Finishing Stone
This is the most popular option. Finishing stones smoothly grind down sharp corners and edges.
How to grind tile edges:
- Select finishing stone grit that matches needs – 60 grit for rough edges, or 220 grit for polishing
- Hold stone flat against tile edge and grind with even, moderate pressure
- Use overlapping strokes until edge is smooth
- Bump to finer grit stone for polished look
- Wipe away grinding dust
Pros:
- Simple and fast
- Creates smooth rounded edges
- Multiple grits available
Cons:
- Can chip tile if too much pressure applied
- Dusty
- Uniform rounded edge, not customizable
Best for ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone.
2. Cutting with Tile Nippers
Nippers cut away sharp protruding corners and bumps with extreme precision.
How to nip tile edges:
- Position nippers at edge corner and squeeze handle to cut
- Make small, incremental cuts rather than large chunks
- Cut down high points and bumps along edge
- Use nippers at 45 degree angle for beveled look
Pros:
- Total control over shaping edges
- Creates unique finished edge
- Bloodless cuts minimize cracking
Cons:
- More time consuming than grinding
- Small nicks can occur
- Not suitable for polished look
Best for ceramic and porcelain tile edges.
3. Scraping with Carbide Tool
Carbide scrapers shave down high points for straight, clean edges.
How to scrape tile edges:
- Hold scraper flat against edge, apply light pressure
- Use short, scraping strokes to remove bumps and ridges
- Work slowly to avoid digging into tile surface
- Use smoothing motions once edge is closer to flush
Pros:
- Extremely precise edge control
- Allows custom edge shapes
- Smooths without rounding
Cons:
- Potential for tile chipping if too forceful
- Grout residue can dull carbide blade
Best for ceramic, porcelain, and glass tiles.
4. Sanding Tile Edges
Wet sanding smooths and softens sharp tile corners for a rounded edge.
How to sand tile edges:
- Wrap sandpaper around sanding block
- Start with 400 grit, follow with 600 grit for polish
- Apply water to edge and sandpaper
- Use light, circular motions concentrating on edges
- Wipe away debris and change water often
Pros:
- Softer custom rounded edges
- No expensive tools needed
Cons:
- Very time consuming
- Imprecise control
- Not effective on hard protrusions
Best for ceramic and porcelain tile edges.
5. Using a Wet Saw
Wet saws with a diamond blade create precise, polished edges.
How to finish tile edges with wet saw:
- Secure tile tightly to saw table
- Align tile edge against blade, just barely kissing edge
- Turn on saw and move tile into blade path
- Use slow, steady pace for smooth edge cut
- Repeat along length of tile
Pros:
- Razor sharp, precision finishes
- Polished, beveled, or rounded looks
- Cuts hardened protrusions
Cons:
- High cost of wet saw rental or purchase
- Skill required to control cuts
- Can crack tile if not done properly
Best for ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone tile.
How to Choose Edge Finish Type
Choosing the right tile edge finishing method depends on several factors:
- Tile material – Ceramic, porcelain, glass and stone edges require different techniques.
- Edge flaws – Level of sharpness or bumps determines amount of grinding needed.
- Desired look – Rounded, polished, or unique finished appearance.
- Time available – Quick touchup vs meticulous edge customization.
- Budget – Cost of tile saw rental vs simple hand tools.
For most standard tile installations, simply using a finishing stone for rounded edges produces good results quickly and affordably.
However, for a premium backsplash install, the extra effort of nippers, wet saw, or sanding may be warranted to achieve perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here is a complete step-by-step guide for finishing backsplash tile edges:
Supplies Needed
- Finishing stone or sandpaper
- Tile nippers (optional)
- Soft dry cloths
- Masking tape (if polishing edges)
- Sealant or grout
Directions
- Allow tile mortar to fully cure, generally 24 hours.
- Mix up tile sealant, if applying prior to finishing edges.
- Clean backsplash area and tile edges thoroughly to remove dust and residues.
- Cut strips of masking tape and apply vertically over tile faces, leaving just edges exposed. This prevents scratching during finishing.
- If using nippers, carefully nip away any sharp protrusions or bumps on corners and edges.
- Using finishing stone or sandpaper, grind/sand edges from top to bottom until smooth. Use light, even pressure.
- For polished look, go up to 220 grit stone. Use water and wipe debris away often.
- Remove all masking tape from tiles. Wipe any dust or residue off tiles.
- Apply sealant to finished edges and allow to cure fully.
- Mix grout per manufacturer instructions and apply between tiles.
- After grout dries fully, seal grout lines for waterproofing.
- Clean backsplash fully with non-abrasive cleaner and soft cloth.
- Admire your beautifully finished edges!
Follow all safety instructions for any power tools used, like a wet saw. Take your time with finishing steps for best results.
Tips and Tricks
- Always test finishing techniques in an inconspicuous area first
- Grind/sand in direction of the tile veins for a smooth finish
- Fix any chips immediately with sealant to prevent cracking
- Don’t grout if edge sealant isn’t fully cured
- Repeat sealing every 1-2 years to maintain waterproofing
- Use a grout sealer or caulk for extra protection on polished glass tile edges
- Wear a dust mask when grinding to avoid inhaling particles
- Keep a light touch! Heavy pressure can damage tile corners
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: Chipped edges and cracked tiles.
Solution: Use lighter pressure and correct grit size. Immediately fix chips with sealant.
Problem: Wavy edges with unfinished spots.
Solution: Maintain consistent smoothing motions in one direction.
Problem: White film on polished tile edges.
Solution: Hard water deposits – wipe edge with equal parts water and vinegar.
Problem: Grout cracking at tile corners.
Solution: Finish and seal edges thoroughly prior to grouting. Apply caulk at vulnerable inside corners if needed.
Problem: Rust stains on edges.
Solution: Use metal fiber brush and oxalic acid solution to remove rust, then reseal.
FAQ
How long does it take to finish backsplash tile edges?
For a typical 10 square foot backsplash with standard smoothing of edges, it takes 1-2 hours total. Nipping or sanding edges adds more time.
Can I use a Dremel to finish tile edges?
Yes, a Dremel with a grinding or sanding attachment can be used similarly to finishing stones for smoothing edges. Select the proper grit size.
What grit finishing stone should I use?
Use a 60 or 80 grit stone for general smoothing of rough tile edges. Use 220 grit for a polished finished edge.
Is it okay to finish tile edges after grouting?
It is better to finish edges before grouting. Grout can crack and chip freshly finished edges.
Should I use a sealant on finished tile edges?
Yes, applying a sealant or grout to the finished edges provides extra protection against moisture and damage.
How often should backsplash edges be resealed?
Reapply sealant every 1-2 years on finished backsplash tile edges to maintain water resistance.
Can I use a wet saw to miter backsplash edges?
Yes, a wet saw with a diamond blade can create precise 45 degree mitered edges on backsplash tiles for a polished look.
Conclusion
Finishing backsplash tile edges properly not only makes them look beautiful, but also protects them from damage over time. Taking the extra time to grind, nip, scrape, sand or cut the edges pays dividends by preventing costly cracks and chips down the road.
Ensure edges are finished prior to grouting for best results. A variety of techniques and tools allow you to create different edge looks to match your unique backsplash tile and decor.
With the right supplies, some practice on waste tiles, and careful final smoothing, you can achieve flawless backsplash edges that complement the tiles beautifully. Just be sure to seal the finished edges fully for maximum water resistance and protection.
Your finished backsplash with gorgeous edges is sure to become the focal point of your kitchen or bathroom. Enjoy the process and results of DIYing this simple yet impactful finishing touch!