The answer is yes, you can install tile edge trim after laying the tiles. Tile edge trim, also known as tile trim or tile profile, is usually used to give the edge of the tile a finished and polished look, and can also protect the edge of the tile from damage. But it would be best to see what style of tile trim you want to install because different shapes have different installation requirements. If it is round-shaped tile trim, square tile trim, U shaped tile trim, you cannot install tile trim after installing the tiles, but if it is L-shaped tile trim, V-shaped tile trim, T tile trim, you can install tile trim after installing the tiles.
Round shaped tile trim and Square shaped tile trim：
From the picture, you can see that this round tile trim and square tile trim need to reserve enough space in advance to install them, or you have to cut the tiles to make room for installing the trim, but pay attention to the location of the cutting line, the tiles must be cut very close to the edge. This can be a difficult and dangerous task because it is easy to slip and cut yourself with a wet tile saw. Even if you successfully install the trim without damaging any tiles, you may cut or damage the edge trim.
So the best way to install them is to install the whole tile and tile trim at each corner every time the plane changes during construction to ensure a professional installation without gaps.
If you want to install the U Shaped tile trim after installing the tiles, then you need to make sure that you have reserved a wide enough gap when installing the tiles so that you can insert the U shaped tile trim in the middle of the tiles, and you need to ensure that the adhesive will not overflow when inserting the U strip and stain the tile surface, and ensure that there is no excessive gap between the tile and the U strip. We recommend that after laying one tile, align the U shaped tile trim with the edge of the tile before laying the next tile.
Compared to the above 3 tile trims, the L shaped tile trim is relatively easier to install because you don't need to reserve a precise tile edge distance to install the L tile edge trim. You can use a bone saw-type tool with a fine carbide blade to get under the tile and remove enough mortar to slide the edge under it. But be aware that you do have the potential to damage the tile, if it is a floor tile, make sure to reinsert enough mortar into the gap to prevent any weak points so that it does not break when you step on the edge.
This is a great tile trim to install after the tile is installed, it can directly cover the edge of the tile corner without damaging the tile, and can also repair and cover the edge of the tile that already has broken edges. If the tile trim needs to be replaced later, it is also very easy, the repair cost is low, and there are many colors and sizes for customers to choose from.
T shaped tile trim is mainly used to decorate tiles and divide areas. You can directly clean the mortar in the gap of the tile where you need to install the T shaped tile trim, and then apply the adhesive to the T patti to install it easily.
Ideally, planning should be done before laying tiles so the starting and ending lines are planned and the best configuration is selected. If you can accurately reserve enough edges to install the tile trim, then you can put the tile trim on after tiling. If you want to know more about tile trim information, contact us now!
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Leah Liu
Hello there! I am Leah. I have worked in the building materials industry for over 10 years. I want to share my experience here - let us make progress together!