Easy Ways to Tile Into Corners

Tiling corners in any room can seem intimidating for a DIY homeowner. With precise tile cutting , proper tools , and some handy tricks, you can achieve stunning results tiling into corners. We will walk you through fail-proof methods to get those corners tiled like a pro.

From layout planning to cutting tile to size and dealing with gaps , this guide covers all the corners . With these easy techniques, you can install tile snugly into any corner for seamless transitions between walls and floors .

Gather the Right Supplies

Having the proper tools and materials on hand will make tiling corners much easier.

In addition to these basic tools , having tiles , caulk, grout sealer, a sponge, safety equipment, and a level will also be useful.

Prep the Wall and Floor Corners

Preparing the surface is crucial when tiling corners. Ensure the corner joints between the walls and floors are clean, dry, and free of debris. Use a scraper or sandpaper to remove any loose material or flaking from the corners.

It is also important to check that the corner joints meet at neat 90-degree angles. Use a level to identify any irregularities along the corners that could cause issues later when applying tiles . If the wall or floor is uneven, you may need to adjust with wall boards or floor leveler first.

Plan Your Layout

Determine the best layout for tiling into the corner. Often it looks most seamless if the tiles overlap from one surface onto the adjoining surface. This helps make the transition between the walls and floor look continuous.

Measure carefully and mark guide lines on the wall and floor to follow when installing the tile. Having this planned layout will make the job easier and prevent mistakes.

Cut Tiles to Fit

One of the trickiest parts of tiling corners is sizing the tiles to fit properly. Use the following steps for accuracy:

1. Measure the corner space and mark the measurements on the tiles where cuts are needed.
2. Use a manual tile cutter, wet saw, or snap cutter to cut the tiles to size.
3. Use tile nippers to nibble off small uneven edges and adjust the tiles to fit perfectly.

Check each tile against the corner after cutting to ensure a close fit before adhering them with tile mastic. Having a tight fit will prevent large or uneven gaps between the tiles .

Deal with Tile Height Differences

Sometimes there may be slight height differences where the wall and floor tiles meet, leaving an unsightly uneven edge. To fix this:

• Use tapered tile edge trim or reducers to transition between the different tile heights.
• Select one surface to be the reference height and cut tiles on the other surface to match.
• In extreme cases, build out the sub-floor or wall surface with backerboard to eliminate the height mismatch.

Adhere the Tiles into the Corner

With your custom-cut tiles sized to fit, it's time to stick them to the corner surfaces. Be sure to work in manageable sections:

1. Apply a layer of tile mastic adhesive using a notched trowel.
2. Place the corner tiles into the adhesive and press firmly.
3. Use tile spacers to leave even grout line gaps between tiles .
4. Allow the tile mastic to cure fully before grouting.

Take care aligning the tiles and verifying they are level. The tile spacers will help align everything neatly into the corner.

Fill Gaps and Finish Edges

Once cured, inspect the tiled corner for any visible gaps or uneven edges. Use the following tips to tidy up the installation:

• Fill any small voids between tiles with leftover tile pieces or caulk.
• Use tongue and groove trim or bullnose pieces to cap raw tile edges.
• Apply caulk along the corner joint for a seamless transition.

Taking these finishing steps ensures a clean finish at the corner joint.

Grout and Seal the Corner Tiles

With the tiles firmly adhered, you can complete the job by adding grout between the tiles :

1. Allow the tile mastic adhesive to fully cure first before grouting.
2. Apply grout carefully using a rubber float, pressing into joints between tiles .
3. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge in diagonal motions.
4. After grout dries, apply grout sealer to protect from moisture and stains.

Taking precautions when grouting will prevent haze and ensure the grout bonds properly between the tiles into the corner.

Caulk Perimeter Joints

We recommend applying a matching silicone caulk along the joint where the tiles meet from wall to floor. This flexible caulk will prevent cracks from movement or shrinkage.

Tool the caulk smooth after applying for a neat finish. Combining grout and caulk creates a professional look in tiled corners.

Maintaining Your Corner Tilework

Putting in the prep work for a quality tile installation will pay off for years to come. However, some periodic maintenance is still essential:

• Re-apply grout sealer annually to protect from stains and moisture.
• Re-grout any joints that become cracked or loose over time.
• Use gentle cleaners and avoid abrasives around corner tiles.

Being diligent with maintenance will maintain the pristine appearance of your tiled corners.

Deal with Damaged Tiles

Damage can happen occasionally in high-traffic areas. Address issues quickly by:

• Replacing any broken, cracked, or loose corner tiles right away.
• Re-grouting gaps that appear between tiles .
• Re-applying caulk if cracks appear in corner joints.

Tips for Tiling Corners

Follow these pro tips when tiling into corners for success:

• Start tiling from the corner outwards for best results.
• Use leveling spacer clips when adhering tiles to keep everything even.
• Have an assistant help support heavier wall tiles as you stick them.
• Don't grout the joint itself--use caulk to allow for movement.

With some handy techniques, you can achieve flawless results and enjoy your stunning tiled corners for years.

As you can see, tiling into corners is very manageable as a DIY project. Taking the time to measure twice and cut once makes all the difference. Following these simple techniques for preparing the surface, sizing and installing tiles , grouting, and finishing will lead to success.

Proper planning and precision when cutting and spacing tiles helps create durable, seamless corners that transition beautifully between the wall and floor. Use quality materials and don't rush the job, applying the tiles in small sections for the best results.

You can achieve beautiful tiled corners with a little patience and practice.