Many tile installations in San Diego need tile trim/edge pieces. These are special pieces of tile that are made to help turn a corner (change plain) or cap an end (return). Different types of edge pieces include quarter round, bullnose, pencil round, domes, and metal tile trim. The shopping for tile trim can be easily underestimated.

Quarter Round

A type of tile trim piece that is used to both turn a corner, and cap a surface. Quarter round gets its name from being a quarter of a circle. They are only used as caps for side for the side walls of a shower when the tile backing is a half inch proud of the existing wall surface. However, they can always be used to turn a 90 degree corner. Quarter round is smaller and less conspicuous than most other trim options. Shopping for quarter round tile trim can be made easier here.

Bullnose

Bullnose is the most versatile trim option. This type of tile trim has one rounded edge. These are usually sold as three inch by twelve inch pieces. Bullnose tile trim is also made to cap a surface and/or change a plain. This feature is ideal for bathroom remodels.

Pencil Round

Pencil round is also called pencil liner. It is basically a skinny version of a quarter round. This type of tile trim is the most inconspicuous. It can be used where the tile backing and existing wall are flush with each other.

Domes

Domes are widely available, however, they are the least popular. They cap surfaces well, however, do not change plain well. This type of tile trim is the most conspicuous. Domes are usually made of stone. They will almost never match a porcelain or ceramic tile, however, can make a nice complimentary contrast.

Metal Trim

Metal trim is sometimes called Schluter, however, Schluter is a brand of trim metal, not a type of trim. The metal trim is sometimes called Jolly. This refers to the specific “L” shaped metal trim. Bullnose and squared versions of this tile trim are also available.

Tile trim shopping

There are many tile stores in San Diego that sell tile and tile trim. There is even more info online.