There is a common concern regarding kitchen maintenance, whether the backsplash needs trim or edging. The answer basically depends on the type of installment that you have.
We have prepared this article to offer you a clear insight into the topic. We will discuss whether your backsplash will need a trim or edging, when you should opt for a trim and when edging. We will also discuss how you can seal a ceramic backsplash.
Does backsplash need trim or edging?
Whether your backsplash needs trim or edging will depend on the installment. If it meets the edge of the wall or countertop or goes only part way up, then you will need to trim the ends. You can also edge the tiling to make it look seamless. It will protect the backsplash from elements of nature.
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Working on your kitchen makeover can be quite challenging, especially when you’re not sure how to proceed. Whether you should trim or edge the backsplash might be one of the common concerns among homeowners.
To answer shortly, the backsplash will need a trim or edging. This is important in order to make the tiles look seamless. It is also important in order to protect your kitchen backsplash from the elements of nature.
It will also depend on the type of installment that you’re working with. If the backsplash is moving partly up or meeting the edge of the kitchen or bathroom countertop, then you will need to trim the edge to fit the placement.
And if the backsplash has an unfinished edge or if it meets another surface or flooring, then you will need to provide the backsplash with some edge protection. There are several options in such a case. You can use anything from a metal edge to a bullnose caulk edge, depending on the installment.
While all these factors may seem quite confusing and the decision may seem very daunting, you will need to get the process right in order to protect your backsplash. The right kind of trim or edge is very important to offer it the perfect finish.
Does a backsplash need a border?
Whether your backsplash will need a border mainly depends on the type of installation that you are working on. But note that there are only a few backsplash installments that will not require you to add a border.
Your backsplash will need a border when the tiles are meeting another surface along the edges. Moreover, the backsplash will need a border when it goes only partly up, without meeting the surface at the top. In such a case you will need to provide a border in order to make the edge look seamless.
And if the backsplash meets the kitchen countertop, you will need to add a border along the edges as well. This will not only make the backsplash look neat but also protect it from the elements of nature.
Do you need to seal ceramic backsplash?
You do not always need to seal ceramic backsplash. Sealing is not a very important part of the procedure, so you can easily skip it if sealing proves to be inconvenient for you.
Among the most popular materials in backsplash are ceramic and porcelain. You will not need to seal these materials because they already come with a protected layer on their surfaces.
Ceramic is generally a very easy-to-maintain material. It is durable and will serve you for a long time if you can take proper care of it. In addition, these surfaces come in versatile designs. So ceramic backsplash makes a great pick if you’re opting for an affordable choice.
While ceramic tiles come in a huge range of sizes and designs, the availability still comes with a common concern. People often wonder whether the ceramic backsplash will need a seal on its surface. The simple answer is no. Ceramic tiles already offer a protective layer on top, so you will not have to worry about sealing it.
What do you use for trim on the backsplash?
Choosing the right trim on your backsplash is equally important as choosing the right tile. So you will need to be very careful in your endeavor. The market is filled with an overwhelming number of options. In the following section, we will discuss a range of trims that you can use on your backsplash.
Bullnose trim:
This is one of the most versatile choices in trimming your backsplash. One side of this trim will curve along the corner of the tile in order to ensure a flawless fit along the edges.
You can use a bullnose trim in a range of situations. Besides backsplashes, you can use this option in trimming the corner of your room, tub surrounds, steps, and more.
Cove base trim:
Another versatile trimming option is the cove case trim. You can opt for this option when you’re trying to create a very water-light transition between two surfaces. So if your backsplash meets the countertop or wall above, then you can use the cove base trim in order to make the transition look flawless.
When the transition happens, the cove base trim covers the crevice that is created by the backsplash, meeting the countertop or the surface above. So the backsplash looks very neat overall.
Baseboard trim:
This is a very popular trimming option among homeowners. This trimming option will help you cover any unsightly crack or joint in the backsplash. It basically serves as any standard floor baseboard.
How to install backsplash edge trim? How do you finish the edges of a backsplash?
Follow these steps in order to seamlessly install backsplash edge trim in your kitchen:
Remove electric outlet covers:
The first step is to take out all the electric outlet covers. You will need to carefully measure the space between the bottom of the kitchen cabinets and the countertops, where you will install the backsplash.
Choose the right trim:
Now you will need to choose a trim for your backsplash. It is very important that you carefully consider all the factors associated with it and choose the right trim. Otherwise, the entire procedure will go to waste. Make sure that the trim that you choose will make your backsplash look seamless at the end.
Prepare the mortar:
Now you should prepare the mortar. Make sure to follow all the measurements properly. Be careful not to make excessive mortar or it will begin to dry soon.
Lay the tiles:
Now that you have your mortar ready, you can begin to trim. You can start laying the first set of tiles on top of the cabinets. Make sure to properly flush the thing with the trim.
Fill the gaps with filler pieces:
Once you are done laying the tiles, you will notice that there are a lot of gaps between the tiles. Use filler pieces in them.
Use the trim:
Once you have placed all the tiles, wait for them to set. Give the tiles at least 24 hours to set. Now you can place the trim along the edge of the tiles. This is how you can install a backsplash edge trim.
Now let’s see how to finish the edges of a backsplash. You should apply a grout mixture to the trim. Do so at a 45-degree angle. Then you will need to wipe off any excess grout from the surface. Give it some time to settle.
How to trim a backsplash?
Follow these steps to trim a backsplash effortlessly:
Prepare the surface:
You will need to prepare the surface that you’re trying to work on. Turn off all the power in your kitchen. Remove the circuit boards from the top of the kitchen cabinet, where you intend to place the backsplash. Clear the countertop as well.
Cut the standard tiles and place them on the wall:
Now you want to cut the standard tiles. You can use a box cutter for this step. Make sure to use eye and respiratory protection while you’re working.
Now you should place the tiles between the kitchen cabinet and the countertop. Make sure that you’re keeping enough grouting gaps in between the tiles.
Grout and lay the trims:
Now that you have placed the tiles, you will have to place trim along the edges. Make sure to cut the trim as the backsplash demands.
Now you should lay the trim along the edges. Make sure to fill the edges of the backsplash with enough grout before laying the trim.
Final Thoughts
Your backsplash may need a trim or edging, depending on the type of installment. If the backsplash touches another surface, then you will need to offer a smooth transition with the trim. In addition, if you want a seamless edge after the installment, the backsplash will need a trim or edging then.