Not only do outdoor tile trims leave your new garden tiles looking neat and tidy but they also cover any sharp edges that could potentially be a hazard to family and friends. Tile trims also provide added protection against water damaging your tiles, which is a must given the British weather.

So, make sure to read on to find out more about the different types of outdoor tile trim available and also the best way to cut and fit tile trims in your garden.

New Stone White Outdoor Tiles 60x60cm (2 Pack)

The different types of outdoor tile trims

The good news is that outdoor tile trims come in a wide selection of colours, shapes and finishes to match with your patio tiles. 

There are two main types of tile trims available.

• Plastic / PVC trims
• Metal trims

You can also find ceramic, porcelain and stone tile trims on the market, but plastic / PVC and especially metal tile trims are by far the most popular, especially with DIYers, given their affordability, longevity and ease of use in terms of fitting..

How to choose the depth of an outdoor tile trim

Tile trims dont just come in different multiple finishes. They also come in different depths.

The choice of tile trim depths allows you to match the depth of the trim with the thickness of the tile as well as account for a layer of adhesive. We always recommend choosing a trim one size up from the thickness of your tile. This guarantees a neat, smooth fit each time.

Outdoor Grey 80mm Edging Trim (2.7m)

How to fit outdoor tile trims a step by step guide

Step 1

Its really important to always follow the manufacturers instructions on the packaging when it comes to mixing your adhesive. Use a mixing paddle keep mixing until the adhesive is free of any lumps and is a nice smooth, ice cream style consistency before use.

Step 2 

Outdoor tile trims come with an edge (the bit you see) and a lip. Once youve mixed your adhesive, apply your adhesive using a notched trowel and then press the lip of the tile trim firmly into your bed of adhesive, positioning the edge of the trim where you want it to go.

Mapei Adesilex P9 C2TE Grey Adhesive (20kg)

Step 3

Next place your tile onto the lip of the trim and position so it is flush with the edge. Then its simply a case of repeating the process with your remaining patio tiles until complete making sure to apply the adhesive to the back of the tile as well before applying to guarantee an even stronger bond.

How to cut outdoor tile trims

You might find that you need to cut your tile trims to size to fit around things such as edges. If this is the case, we always advise using a Mitre Block and a Junior Hacksaw.

Dex Pro Mitre Box

And, when it comes to cutting your outdoor tile trims, wed also recommend always making your cuts at a 45-degree angle. This means that the separate pieces will fit nicely together when joined leaving you with a seamless finish.

Its also worth marking where the cuts need to be made on the tile trim before cutting and hold the trim steady and press firmly against the edge of your Mitre Block to ensure a nice, clean cut.

Then once youve made 2 cuts at opposing angle cuts, offer them against the tile, making sure both pieces of trim fit together correctly.  

Advice 

If you any need help with choosing the right tiles for your garden, make sure to read our advice blog here. Its full of really useful information. 

How to fit outdoor tile trims around corners

If you are planning on having your tile trim go around a corner, then mark out the angle you require, and then place the flat edge on a mitre block and use a hacksaw to cut the tile trim at a right angle before fitting as normal.

The other alternative is to use a corner trim (or edge corners). Increasingly popular, and also highly affordable, they avoid the need for cutting your trims, helping you to create a nice, neat edge on things like garden steps etc.

And, wherever possible leave the layer of protective plastic over your trims during tiling. This keeps the decorative edge nice and clean while you are tiling as well as avoiding any potential damage. Simply remove when youve finished.

Outdoor Matt Grey Corner Box Trim

Need more information? 

If you have any questions regarding selecting outdoor tile trims, then feel free to contact our Customer Services team using our web chat facility.