What Are Bullnose Tiles Used For?

Add a polished touch to a shower wall, decorative niche, or kitchen backsplash with Purple Ceramic Glossy Pencil Bullnose Tile Trim.

Distinguished by its rounded profile, bullnose trim serves as an edge treatment to hide rough corners or frame a tile design. When planning for a home improvement project, this is the step not to miss.

First of all, it’s versatile. Trims can complement or contrast with standard tiles, creating tile work with flair. Think of bullnose tile as a frame. Without it, your piece of art simply isn’t complete. Second, it prolongs wall, floor, and backsplash tile installation. A closing detail protects against chipping, cracking, and moisture retention. 

Sure, picking out trims may seem like an added task. But for a nice, clean edge, these humble pieces are an indispensable element. Now let’s get into the uses and benefits of bullnose trim tile. 

Bullnose Tile Material

Most wall, floor, and backsplash tile designs are available with a matching bullnose piece. That is, ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. However, it’s possible that the trims are produced at a different time to the main tiles, and slight variation in finish may result. While subtle and often unnoticeable to the human eye, asking to see samples is always an important consideration. 

Like standard tiles, expect enhanced durability, moisture- and stain-resistance, and easy upkeep. Similarly, certain bullnose trims can be suited for bathroom walls but not floors. Others for both walls and floors, indoors only. We recommend checking “Area of Use” to ensure the right product for your specific needs. 

Find bullnose edge trim in different variations: rectangular, square, and corner. Each type has a rounded edge for which bullnose is known. Rectangular tile trims vary in dimensions but a common size is 3×13 inches. The narrow and long profile means you can cover more surface with fewer pieces.

Uses and Benefits of Bullnose Tile Trim

Bullnose edge trim can be arranged on the sides of the shower niche. Here, the rounded shape of Teal Green Ceramic Glossy Pencil Bullnose Tile Trim yields a seamless, elegant finish that is as beautiful as it is functional.

• Adds a finishing detail to walls 

Do you need a bullnose tile for shower? Yes! For an accent wall, fireplace surround, and a backsplash, too. A bullnose trim can be laid on the outer edges of the wall. Or to smoothen sharp corners and angles of a backsplash tile design. 

This makes trimming your tile work an essential safety solution. Conversely, shower tile without a bullnose can be susceptible to damage. Unfinished corners and sides can injure anyone who brushes up against the wall. In terms of size and profile, your edge piece can match the tile’s thickness, style, color, and texture. 

• Seals floor to wall joints

An edge trim can cover the joints where your tiled floors meet the wall in place of a baseboard. In addition to looking pristine, a row of bullnose tiles gives an extra layer of protection against liquid stains. It also serves as a stopgap for dust and dirt. 

• Adds a decorative detail

For a striking contrast, why not choose trim that’s a different color to your tiles? This small but mighty detail can create an eye-catching focal point in the room.

• Creates a seamless transition

Install bullnose trim between two different tile designs or between a tiled and non-tiled surface. For example, a flawless transition from subway tiles to floral wallpaper on the same wall. A more rounded bullnose trim is just right for blending the two elements better.

Create a Polished Look with the Right Measurement

For a size that does not match your tiles, you may have to cut down the trim piece if it makes the layout look better. Here Dark Blue Polished Ceramic Subway Tile shows just how well a rectangular trim works with square tiles. 

Bullnose tile trims are often sold by the piece. For a flawless design, make sure to consider the number of pieces needed and factor that into your tiling budget. Measure the area to be worked on, then choose the right type of trim that matches or coordinates with the main tiles.