Tiling a backsplash can transform the look of your kitchen by adding visual interest, color, and texture. While tiling large expanses may seem straightforward, tiling corners in a backsplash requires some special techniques and considerations. With the right preparation and materials, you can tile corners professionally for a finished look.
Planning Your Corner Backsplash Tiles
When planning tiled backsplashes, pay special attention to inside and outside corners. Consider the following:
- Tile Layout: Determine the layout style, such as a stacked, subway, or herringbone pattern. The tile layout will affect the look of the corners.
- Tile Size: Smaller tiles like mosaics can make detailed cuts easier around corners. Larger tiles may require extra cuts for a seamless fit.
- Grout Lines: The grout line width will impact the corner joints. A smaller grout line (1/16″) helps the tiles fit together precisely.
- Corner Finishing: You can miter inside corners for a sharp edge or use bullnose tiles to ease the edge. Rounded or decorative tiles soften outside corners.
- Transition Areas: Mark where the backsplash meets countertops, appliances, outlets, etc. These transition points also need cuts for a smooth finish.
Tiling Inside Corners
Inside corners where two perpendicular walls meet require careful tile fitting. Here are tips for clean inside corner installation:
- Cut tapered edges on the tiles for the corner pieces so the wall tiles fit together smoothly without gaps.
- Use a wet saw or tile cutter to cut the tapered “miter” cuts at a 45 degree angle. Take the time to cut precise angles.
- Cut tiles so the grout lines align perfectly when installing corner tiles. Having even grout lines creates visual continuity.
- Use tile spacers when setting corner tiles to get consistent grout line spacing.
- Fill any small gaps with sanded grout for seamless corner transitions once tiles are set.
Tiling Outside Corners
For outside corners, select tiles specially designed for finishing an external edge:
- Bullnose tiles have one rounded finished edge. Use bullnose tiles on one wall of the corner.
- Corner finisher tiles have two finished edges to cover both walls. These are ideal for outside corners.
- Make sure rounded edges face outward on both walls for a cohesive look.
- Use cut tiles or mosaic sheets to fill any gaps where the rounded edges don’t fully meet.
Cutting Tiles Around Angled Appliances
Kitchen backsplashes frequently need to accommodate corners where countertops and appliances meet the walls.
- Make a cardboard template as a guide for irregular shapes. Trace the outline and transfer to the tiles.
- For rounded appliances like cooktops, use your template to mark tiles for curved cuts. A wet saw with a diamond blade cuts curves well.
- Cut tiles to fit around switches, outlets, and fixtures. Tape off areas to avoid cutting too small.
- Make precision cuts and test the fit of tiles as you go for an exact fit.
Grouting Corner Joints
Grout fills the joints between tiles, which are most visible in corners. Follow these tips for grouting corners:
- Apply grout using a grout float or squeegee, forcing it deeply into inside and outside corners.
- Wrap a damp sponge in a cotton cloth and gently wipe corner grout for smooth joints.
- Use a grout sealing product to protect tile corners which are prone to cracking and staining.
- Caulk where the tiled backsplash meets countertops and other surfaces to allow for movement.
Achieving a Professional Corner Finish
Tiling backsplash corners may require some extra cuts and care for a flawless finish, but the results are worth it. Here are some final tips:
- Take your time making precise mitered cuts for inside corners and rounded edge cuts for outside corners.
- Use levelers to ensure tiles are perfectly flush and even across corners.
- Be diligent about spacer placement around corners to maintain proper grout line alignment.
- Always seal and caulk corners once installed. Corners are vulnerable to damage and discoloration.
- Stand back frequently and examine corner tiles for any unevenness, gaps, or alignment issues. Fix as needed.
With careful planning and installation, you can tile your backsplash corners like an expert for a polished look that transforms your kitchen. Tiled corners add architectural interest and balance to any backsplash design.