Things You'll Need:
- Tile
- Tile adhesive
- Notched trowel
- Tile spacer
- Carpenter's square
- Metal straight edge
- Tile scribe
- Pliers
- Tile float
- Grout
- Damp cloth
- Grout sealant
- Paintbrush
-
Step 1
Look for a tile that will fit the edge of the wall without requiring each tile to be cut. For oddly-shaped walls, smaller mosaic tiles are likely the best choice. If the intended tiles are nearly the correct width for the space, plan to widen or narrow the grout lines, slightly, to make the tiles fit.
-
Step 2
Apply a thin layer of tile adhesive to the edge of the wall using the straight edge of a notched trowel.
-
Step 3
Remove excess adhesive with the notched edge of the trowel, by dragging the trowel over the area at a 45 degree angle.
-
Step 4
Press each tile into the adhesive, twisting it slightly into place. Once the first tile is in place, add a spacer next to the tile to ensure uniform grout lines. Use a carpenter's square to check that the grout lines are also perpendicular to the wall.
-
Step 5
Use a tile scribe to cut any tiles that are too large for the space allotted. Place a metal straight edge on the desired cut line, covering the portion of the tile you wish to use with the ruler. Then use the scribe to apply pressure along the cut line and score the tile. Use a set of pliers to break away the excess tile.
-
Step 6
Continue adding tile until the entire wall edge is covered.
-
Step 7
Remove any adhesive that has seeped out from the edge of the wall, using the straight edge of the notched trowel.
-
Step 8
Remove any spacers in between the tiles. Allow the tile adhesive to cure for 24 hours before continuing.
-
Step 9
Use the tile float to apply grout into the channels between tiles. Work diagonally across the tiles from several directions to ensure that each channel is completely filled with grout.
-
Step 10
Allow the grout to set for 5 minutes, then use a damp cloth and your finger to create grout lines that are smooth and slightly concave.
-
Step 11
Buff the surface of the tile with a damp cloth to remove any haze caused by grout residue. Wait 24 hours for the grout to cure before proceeding.
-
Step 12
Apply a grout sealant with a paintbrush over all of the grout lines. Allow the sealant to dry for at least 24 hours before placing anything on the wall edge.
