14+ How to End Tile Backsplash
ID# 183603 – Product BA4501 – Modern Long Biege Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Modern Porcelain Tile Backsplash with White Countertops
While ending the tile backsplash through the cabinet line is the popular approach, you can also leave the tile edges open and use a caulk to finish it if you don’t have wall cabinets! In this contemporary kitchen, for example, the beige modern porcelain backsplash tiles cover half of the wall space. If you have a tile design with clean and streamlined edges, like this one, you can easily use a caulk to finish the edges. However if your tiles have rough edges, it might be a better option to use some trim. Metal edges are the other option that allows you to complete the modern style of the backsplash tiles!
ID# 183608 – Product BA2007 – Modern Warm Gray Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern Warm Gray Subway Backsplash with Black Countertops
Silicone caulk is a common and effective way to finish the edge between the backsplash tiles and the countertop or wall. These types of caulks create a watertight seal that prevents moisture from seeping behind the tiles. Compared to the other trimming options, caulking is also the most cost-effective approach! However, it is not suitable for all types of backsplash tiles. For example, if your tiles have rough edges, a silicone caulk might not be enough for protection. If your tiles have clean edges, as demonstrated in this modern farmhouse kitchen, you can easily apply the caulk and provide long lasting usage.
How to End Tile Backsplash?
Tile backsplashes are one of the most important elements for kitchens. In today’s market, from glass to marble, you can find an endless array of tile options that can transform your kitchen into a show-stopper. When installing a tile backsplash, knowing how to finish the raw edges of the tiles is one of the challenges for many homeowners. Choosing a good finishing material for tiles is an important point for a successful installation. When it comes to finishing a backsplash edge, there are several ways that you may not have heard about or just haven’t crossed your mind until now. In this guide, you will find these different options for how to end tile backsplash and learn how to apply them to your design project!
ID# 183601 – Product BA631613 – Modern Gray Marble Chevron Mosaic Backsplash Tile
White and Wood Kitchen Cabinets with Marble Backsplash Tiles
When it comes to kitchen backsplashes, marble is one of the most popular materials. With its luxurious elegance, marble stone can easily lend sophistication to any space. There are several ways to end a marble tile backsplash. In this transitional kitchen, marble tiles end at the cabinet line which is a clean and simple option. The backsplash tiles stop at the edge of white cabinets, creating a defined border. The white shaker cabinets are a perfect choice to complement the timeless appeal of the marble stone. The stainless steel countertop adds an edgy look while the natural wood drawers and the range hood balance the bright shades and add much-needed warmth.
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
How to end the backsplash on an open wall?
Some tiles come with a finishing row and some of them do not. If you have a backsplash on an open wall, you can use one of the methods above such as tile trims, metal edges, or caulk to end it.
ID# 183602 – Product BA1038 – Modern Long Gray Limestone Backsplash Tile
Contemporary Kitchen with Light Wood Cabinets
Natural stone tiles are popular for a good reason: they are versatile. Thanks to the wide range of design options, these tiles can work for a variety of kitchen designs from modern to traditional. This contemporary kitchen uses a gray limestone backsplash in a horizontal stacked pattern. If you are using a backsplash tile with a clean and simple shape, it is easier to finish it. Here, the modern gray backsplash tiles reach through the ceiling, offering a sleek backdrop. Caulking the edge between the backsplash and countertop is the most common and easiest method to finish the tiling job. As you can see here, this method offers a sleek and modern appeal that complements the backsplash tiles. For the rest, the light wood cabinets, white marble countertops, and gray appliances create a cohesive look.
What is the best and easiest way to end the tile backsplash?
When it comes to ending a tile backsplash, there are several alternatives. Before choosing the type, you need to consider the material of your tile and the application size. Here are the most common finishing ways for a tile backsplash.
ID# 183604 – Product BA310131 – White Porcelain Arabesque Backsplash Tile
White Arabesque Tile Backsplash with Wood Countertops
If you are using such a strong tile design with a unique shape, like this one, why not emphasize this form even more? As you can see in this contemporary kitchen, the white arabesque tile backsplash stands out with its finish line. Instead of cutting the tiles and giving a straight finish line, these tiles are left with their original shape, creating a visually striking accent wall. Even though this approach looks beautiful, you need to ensure that the caulk is well applied. Otherwise, tile edges can affect moisture or heat. To emphasize the impact even more, use a slightly contrasting grout color. The white shaker cabinets complete the traditional style of the arabesque tiles while the wood countertop adds a warm sense. The stainless steel appliances make a cohesive final touch that enhances the modern aesthetic.
Modern Mosaic Tiles
How to finish tile edges without trim?
As we mentioned above, caulking is the easiest way to finish the tiles! But it is not suitable for all types of materials because some of the tiles have raw edges. In such cases, you need to use an ending material. If you don’t want to use a classic trim you can opt for metal edges or create a bullnose edge by using the same tiles that you have used for your backsplash!
ID# 183605 – Product BA1034 – Modern Marble Subway Backsplash Tile
Modern Kitchen Design with Marble Subway Tile Backsplash
If you want to create a modern kitchen, metal edges will be a perfect match to end the tile backsplash. With their sleek appeal, these edge options can give a modern finish to your backsplash tiles. In this modern kitchen, marble subway tile backsplash gives a modern appeal with the slimmer shape of the tiles. At the edge, the metal edging creates a continuous look with the tiles. For the rest, the medium-tone kitchen cabinets anchor the space, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The crisp white quartz countertops and brushed nickel cabinet hardware make a harmonious final touch and enhance the contemporary aesthetic.
How to hide cut edge of tile?
The best way to hide a cut edge of the tile is by using an ending material. It could be a metal edge or a tile trim. Whatever your personal preferences, these materials are perfect to give a finished look to your backsplash.
ID# 183606 – Product BA1063 – Rusty Brown & Gray Slate Mosaic Backsplash Tile
How to End Two Types of Tile Backsplash?
Kitchen backsplashes come in a wide variety of material options and mixing materials is a popular approach for 2024 kitchen tile trends! This rustic kitchen, for example, uses slate and ceramic tiles together. To start with, the white ceramic subway tile backsplash covers the wall space between the countertops and upper cabinets, creating a clean and fresh backdrop that balances the rustic features. The slate mosaic tile backsplash creates an accent wall behind the stove. When using two different types of backsplash material, grouting requires attention to detail. First, you need to choose the right type of grout for both of the materials. And you also need to pay attention to the edges of the tiles. Metal edges might be the best option for this approach, offering a sleek transition between the tiles.
Caulk
Caulking the edge of the tiles is the easiest way to finish a tile backsplash. It is also a cost-effective solution. Mosaic tiles, tumbled stones and some porcelain tiles might be suitable for this application. However, if the edges of your tiles are raw, other alternatives might be a better solution to create a smooth and clean look. If the edges look smooth and clean, you can caulk the end of the tiles!
ID# 183607 – Product BA8023 – Shimmery White Glass Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Navy Blue Cabinets with Shell Glass Backsplash Tiles
Glass tiles are known for their glamorous appeal and this one is no exception! Thanks to the unique long and slim shape of the tiles, the edging process will be easier compared to the intricate forms. While metal edge trim or polished glass edge trim are the popular finishing options for these types of backsplash materials, using silicone caulk is the common and most cost-effective way. Use 100% silicone caulk specifically formulated for glass applications. You can use a clear caulk for a seamless look or choose a color that complements the grout of the tiles.
Metal Edges
Metal edges are becoming more popular as a finishing material for modern designs. They offer a high-end look that can also complement your appliances or hardware. You can find a wide array of styles and finishes for a metal edge. With their sleek and clean look, metal edges are perfect to create a contemporary transition to another surface.
ID# 183609 – Product BA62046 – Glossy White Glass & Marble Diamond Mosaic Tile
White Kitchen Design with Diamond Mosaic Backsplash
Diamond mosaics have a glamorous appeal that can enhance any kitchen space. And to complement their sleek appearance, metal edging is the best option. This way you can create a modern flair in your kitchen. While these types of tiles are beautiful, the installation process might be harder than simple rectangular tiles because of their diamond shape. When it comes to the installation process, you need to pay attention to cutting the tiles to make clean and streamlined edges. Otherwise, your backsplash looks uneven.
ID# 183610 – Product BA62047 – Modern Glass, Marble & Mirror Mosaic Backsplash Tile
How to End Mosaic Tile Backsplash?
If you are designing a modern kitchen, metal edge trims will be the best finishing option for your backsplash tiles. These trims can create a seamless look with your tiles as demonstrated in this modern kitchen. Here, the white flat-panel cabinets dominate the space, providing a bright and spacious atmosphere. The plain appeal of the cabinets allows the black and white mosaic backsplash tiles to stand out even more. If your backsplash reaches a window like this one, you can either butt the tile directly against the windowsill or create a small overhang and use a metal trim to finish the edges.
ID# 183611 – Product BA62010 – Modern Glass & Metal Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Gray Kitchen Cabinets with Modern Mosaic Tile Backsplash
Mosaic tiles are popular materials for kitchen backsplash. These designs allow you to personalize your space. This mosaic backsplash, for example, is adorned by a puzzle-like finish and glossy appeal that instantly jazzs up the overall look. It consists of glass and metal chips, offering a striking focal point. When using a modern backsplash like this one, metal edge trims are the best option to complete the modern flair. With their sleek and streamlined design, these metal edges can easily complement the tiles, enhancing modern aesthetics.
Tile Trims
Tile trims are the most common finishing way for the tile backsplashes. From bullnose to rail moldings, you can find plenty of different shapes and types that can match your tiles. Depending on your tiles and project, you can use one of these trims or combine different types!
- Bullnose: This one is the most diverse option between the tile trims. A bullnose tile is a corner tile that consists of rounded edges. These edges eliminate sharp angles and blend into a wall seamlessly. If you want to use this edging style, check out the available trim pieces that match the tile you choose.
- Rail Molding: If you are looking for a more decorative piece to finish your tiles, rail moldings will be a perfect choice! These thin and rounded moldings can work with different materials and provide a cohesive transition between different materials.
- Flat Liner: As the name suggests, these trims are flat and straight. They provide a more modern look and with their plain appeal and they are versatile. Also, a flat liner comes in a wide range of color and material options so you can easily find an ending piece that matches your tiles.
- Pencil Liner: These trims are very similar to the flat liner but they are rounded. These ones are also available in many different colors and materials.
ID# 183612 – Product BA310131 – White Porcelain Arabesque Backsplash Tile
Transitional Kitchen with Gray Cabinets and White Countertops
If your backsplash ends at the corner of the wall space, you need to choose the right edging to finish the tiling job flawlessly. In this transitional kitchen, for example, the white arabesque tiles are finished with a flat liner that provides a clean and modern look. For the rest, the white quartz countertops seamlessly blend with the bright appeal of the tiles. The gray shaker cabinets anchor the space, providing a sophisticated foundation. While the stainless steel appliances create a cohesive look with the cabinets, the brass cabinet hardware adds much-needed warmth to the gray-and-white color scheme.
White Mosaic Tiles
ID# 183613 – Product BA1012 – Modern White Glass & Marble Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Traditional White Kitchen with Marble Countertops
Pencil lines are the other popular edging material that offers a stylish appeal. In this traditional kitchen, the glass and marble mosaic tile backsplash is finished with a pencil liner, creating a glamorous appeal. From white shaker cabinets to paneled range hood, marble countertops, chrome cabinet hardware, and mosaic tile backsplash, each feature flawlessly represents the timeless elegance of the traditional design aesthetic.
Where should backsplash end?
There is no certain rule for where to end tile backsplash. Generally, a backsplash covers the area between the upper cabinets and the countertop. However, you can use a 4-inch backsplash or extend your tiles up to the ceiling. It is a personal decision. But, shouldn’t forget that the primary aspect of a backsplash is functional. That means it needs to protect walls against food and water damage. So, a 4-inch backsplash might not be very protective but with a little more maintenance, you can also choose this option.
On the other hand, behind the range hood is the area that needs more protection. So, whether you have a 4-inch or an 18-inch backsplash, it is better to extend the tiles through the ceiling behind the hood will be a better option for functionality.
Decorative Mosaic Tiles
ID# 183614 – Product BA1092 – Light Ivory Travertine Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Off-white Shaker Cabinets with Travertine Backsplash
Bullnose is the most diverse option between the tile trims and this contemporary kitchen is executed well! Here, the ivory travertine backsplash tiles are finished with a bullnose trim with the same travertine material. Using the same material provides a continuous look as a backdrop. The off white shaker cabinets are the perfect match for the travertine tiles while the beige countertops add a slight contrast.
Other Alternatives
Glazed-Edge Tiles: Glazed-edge tiles are perfect for a simple solution if you want to use the same material with your tiles. They take the stress out of having to choose another material and try to match it with your tiles. But, you need to be sure that the tile you choose comes with glazed-edge tiles. Also, if you want, you can glaze the edge of the tiles by yourself!
Create a Bullnose Edge: This method is the hardest one but it is definitely possible. When installing a tile, if you don’t have matching trim or you don’t want to use other alternatives, you can make a custom bullnose tile. Using a high-quality diamond blade for a wet saw is recommended, specially designed for your tile material! You can create a rounded edge by grinding, sanding, and polishing the edges of the tiles with an angle grinder. On the other hand, this is not applicable to all materials. Unfortunately, it works only for natural stone tiles and maybe some types of porcelain or ceramic tiles.
