How to Tile a Wall Border

Choose a tile border that fits your decor.

Tile wall borders can give a unique look unlike any other household accent.Tiles with interconnecting patterns look wonderful as an all-over wall decoration. You can add a touch of color or style in a simple border along the base of a wall. When using tiles in this manner, bear in mind that they are not designed to take knocks or bumps, so care must be taken after they have been finished.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Chalk line
• Tile adhesive
• Tile spacers
• Grout
• Rubber gloves
• Damp sponge
• Grout shaper

Instructions

1. Measure the length of one tile. Using a pencil, mark the wall into sections of this measurement

2. Snap a chalk line where the edges of the tile will be placed using the marked lines as your guide.

3. Wearing rubber gloves, spread a thick layer of tile adhesive along the base of the wall. Cover enough wall to apply four or five tiles at a time. Using the notched edge of the spreader, scuff the surface only halfway through, leaving a thick layer of adhesive.

4. Slide each tile into position. You may wish to use tile spacers or you could space them by eye. Wipe the surface of the tiles and the wall with a damp sponge to remove any excess adhesive. Leave to dry.

5. Grout the tiles thoroughly, pushing the grout down well into the gaps between the tiles. Using a damp sponge, remove any excess grout from the surface of the tiles. Use a grout shaper, to smooth the grout joint. Allow to dry. Polish the surface of the tiles with a dry, lint-free cloth.