How to tile around window

This article is about how to tile around window. Tiling around a window is a technique that you have to learn thoroughly, before installing kitchen or bathroom tiles. From our experience, we can assert that tiling around windows is maybe the most difficult operation when installing tile in a kitchen or in a bathroom, therefore we have decided to write am article, as to share our expertise with our readers. The most important aspect is that we always prefer using plastic or metal tile corner trims, as to hide the edges and to get a neat look (the corners will be round and it’s easier to make them plumb). Nonetheless, you can still tile around a window using traditional techniques, meaning that you just install the tiles in a corner, without using a plastic trim (it would take longer to get the same neat look).

Tiling around a window is an easy task if you use a plastic tile corner trim. In addition, the tile edging is not expensive, it is easy to use and most importantly it will change dramatically the look of your bathroom or kitchen. In order to cut it to the needed length, you have to use a cutter or a miter saw. In addition, if you have to install the plastic trim around a right angled corner, you have to cut each piece at 45º, by using a cutter or a miter saw.

In order to tile around a window, you have to spread thin-set on the wall, by using a notched trowel. Then measure around the window, as to cut the tiles (with a score and snap cutter or a wet saw) to fit into location. When installing the tiles around windows, make sure you first secure the tile corner trim in thinset. Leave the tiles to dry out for at least two days and then apply the colored grout by using a grout float. Use a sponge and a bucket with water to clean the grout off the tiles, to obtain a professional look. See more tile projects HERE.

Made from this plan

In order to tile around a window, you need the following:

Materials

• Thin set mortar / premixed mastic
• Tiles, tile corner trim
• Tile spacers

Tools

• Safety gloves, glasses
• Drill machinery with mixing palette
• Bucket, rubber hammer
• Cutter / miter saw
• Score and snap cutter, wet saw

Tips

• Use tile plastic corner trim

Time

• 2 Hours

How to tile around window

First of all, you have to prepare the surface, by removing the bumps and other irregularities. Use a large scraper and level the wall surface or apply an even coat of cement plaster.

Next, you have to prepare thinset in a clean bucket. Fill 1/3 of the bucket with water and then pour the thinset powder, leaving it to soak moisture for 5 minutes. Afterwards, mix the adhesive by using a drill with a mixing paddle or a margin trowel. If the thinset doesn’t slip off the trowel, it has the right consistency.

Spread an even layer of thinset on the wall, by holding the trowel at 45º. Comb the adhesive several times, until the coat is perfectly level.

Next, you have to install the tiles around the window. In order to secure them properly, you have to use a mallet and hit the tiles gently, until the tiles are on the right position. Use a spirit level to make sure the wall tiles are plumb.

In order to obtain a nice look and to get the job done quicker, we recommend you to use plastic tile corner trims. These plastic trims are extremely useful and come at good price. In addition, you can choose from many designs and colors, as to fit them with your bathroom or kitchen tiles. The corner trims add style to any room.

Install the corner trim in place, making sure it is perfectly plumb and level, by using a spirit level. Work with patience and with great care as to ensure you cut the tiles at a proper dimension.

Install spacers between the tiles, as to keep them evenly spaced. At 90º corners, you have to cut the two pieces of plastic trim at 45º, by using a cutter or a miter saw.

After you install the tiles and the plastic trim, you should wait for several days until the thinset has dried out. Afterwards, prepare colored grout in a small bucket and apply it around the window, by using a grout float.

Clean the surface with a wet sponge and them wipe the surface with a dry cloth. If you have followed our steps, you should get a nice tiled window.

Tiling around windows

In this image, you can see another bathroom window with a different design. Therefore, we will show you how to tile around it, by using the same techniques. The first step is to prepare the surface, by leveling the wall and removing the bumps or other residues.

Install tiles around the window, by spreading an even coat of thinset with a comb trowel. Afterwards, install the bathroom tiles and place spacers between them, as shown in the image.

Secure the tile edging into thinset and use a large level to make sure it is plumb. Next you should fit the tiles on the wall inside the corner trim. Next, spread tile adhesive on the other side of the corner wall, by using a notched trowel. Afterwards, lay the tiles on the wall, one by one, making sure you align them with the corner trim. Work with patience and check if the tiles are lain properly.

If the top tile won’t stay into position, you could use a wooden support, until the adhesive dries out and it gets locked into position. Work with patience and use a spirit level, as to make sure the wall tiles are plumb.

Next, you have to install the tile corner trims, as to obtain a nice look and to get the job done quicker. You can tile around a window without installing corner trims, but the edges will be exposed and noticeable, therefore having an unattractive appearance.

As you can easily see, tiling around a window is not difficult if you use the right tools and materials. From our experience, we can say that you will get the best look by installing corner trims. Last but not least, make sure you center the window when making the tile layout, as to be able to install cut tiles (wider than 2”) round it.

My best tips on how to tile around windows:

Tiling around windows requires precision and planning to achieve a clean, professional look. Here are my best tips for tiling around windows:

1. Plan Your Layout: Before applying any adhesive, dry-lay your tiles around the window to determine the best layout. This will help you avoid awkward slivers of tile at the edges. Ideally, you want full or half tiles to frame the window for a balanced look.

2. Use Tile Trim for a Clean Finish: For a neat, finished edge, install tile trim (also called edging) around the window. This not only protects the tile edges from chipping but also gives the window a polished, professional appearance. Choose a trim that complements the tile and design.

3. Cut Tiles Carefully: When you reach the edges of the window, you’ll need to cut tiles to fit. Measure carefully and use a wet saw or tile cutter for precise cuts. For small, tricky cuts around corners or edges, a tile nipper can be useful to break off smaller pieces of tile.

4. Start from the Bottom: Begin tiling at the bottom of the window and work your way up. This ensures that any cut tiles will be at the top or sides, where they are less noticeable. Make sure the first row is level to create a strong base for the rest of the tiles.

5. Leave a Gap for Expansion: Leave a small expansion gap (about 1/8 inch) between the tile and the window frame. This gap allows for natural movement and prevents the tiles from cracking. This gap will be filled with caulk or grout later.

6. Apply Thinset Evenly: Use a notched trowel to apply thinset evenly around the window. Apply the adhesive in small sections to prevent it from drying out before you place the tiles. Use the flat side of the trowel to back-butter small or tricky tiles to ensure a good bond.

7. Use Tile Spacers for Even Gaps: As you tile around the window, use tile spacers to ensure consistent grout lines. This will help keep everything uniform and avoid uneven gaps.

8. Tile the Inside of the Window: If you are tiling the inside of the window (the reveal), cut tiles to fit the depth of the window frame. Measure each side carefully, as window depths can vary. Lay the side reveal tiles first, then the top and bottom pieces, for a clean, consistent look.

9. Seal with Caulk: Once the tiles are in place and the thinset has dried, use color-matched silicone caulk to fill the expansion gap around the window frame. This allows for flexibility and protects against moisture. Avoid grouting in the gap, as grout may crack with window movement.

10. Check for Level and Plumb: Constantly check that your tiles are level and plumb, especially when working around the window edges. Adjust as needed before the thinset dries to ensure straight lines and an even, balanced look.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a seamless, professional result when tiling around windows, with clean edges and well-aligned tiles that enhance the overall design of the space!

Thank you for reading our article on how to tile around window and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. Don’t forget to Like our articles and to share them with your friends by using the social media widgets.

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