Conquering Corners: How to Tile Inside Corners Like a Boss (and Not a Weeping Mess)
Ah, the inside corner. The Bermuda Triangle of tiling. The place where full-sized subway tiles go to mysteriously disappear and emerge as sad, chipped slivers. Fear not, fellow DIY warriors! With a little planning and some serious tile-cutting action, you can navigate those corners with the grace of a seasoned pro (or at least someone who watched a few YouTube tutorials).
Measure Twice, Cut Once (Especially in Corners)
This age-old adage applies tenfold to corner tiling. Here's where things get a little strategic. You'll need to be a measuring maniac to ensure your cut tiles fit snugly without looking like they went through a cheese grater.
- Grab your trusty tape measure: Measure the distance from the last full tile to the corner. Important Note: Subtract a quarter-inch from this measurement. This accounts for the grout line and prevents your tiles from bulging at the corner.
- Mark it up: Using a pencil, mark your cutting line on the BACK of the tile. Triple-check your measurements for maximum accuracy. Remember, a little mistake here can lead to a LOT of frustration later.
Embrace the Inner Tile Ninja: Cutting Like a Champ
Now comes the moment of truth: the cut.
- Arm yourself: A good manual tile cutter is your best friend. These handy tools score the tile with a sharp wheel, allowing you to easily snap it along the line.
- Steady does it: Place the tile on the cutter and score a clean, firm line. Apply gentle pressure as you snap the tile – Rambo-style force is not required (and might lead to shattered dreams... and tiles).
- For the perfectionists: If a perfectly smooth edge is your holy grail, consider a wet saw. This powerhouse tool delivers a clean cut with minimal chipping.
Pro Tip: Practice your cutting skills on some scrap tiles before tackling the good stuff. Trust us, your future self will thank you.
Corner Assembly: The Tiling Tango
With your perfectly cut tiles in hand, it's time to get down to business!
- Spread that thinset: Apply thinset mortar (the magical glue that holds your tiles in place) to both the wall and the back of the cut tile.
- The corner shuffle: Carefully slide the cut tile into place, ensuring a snug fit with the full tiles on either side. Use spacers to maintain consistent grout lines throughout the project.
- Level is key: Check your work with a level to make sure your corner isn't leaning towards a whimsical, drunken aesthetic.
Remember: Don't grout the actual corner itself! Since corners are prone to slight movement due to temperature changes, use a flexible caulk instead. This will allow the joint to expand and contract without cracking.
Frequently Asked Corner Concerns:
Q: How do I hide the cut tile in the corner?
A: Subway tile backsplashes are often placed behind appliances or under cabinets, so the cut tile in the corner is usually hidden. If this isn't the case, you can opt for a bullnose tile for the corner, which has a rounded edge.
Q: My cut isn't perfect. What do I do?
A: Don't despair! Small imperfections in the corner are less noticeable than you think. Embrace the handmade charm and caulk will do its magic to cover minor discrepancies.
Q: Help! My tiles keep breaking when I cut them.
A: Make sure you're using the right tool for the job. A dull tile cutter score wheel can cause chipping. Consider replacing the wheel or renting a wet saw for a cleaner cut.
Q: What if I accidentally cut a tile too small?
A: If it's a very small difference, you can use thinset mortar to build out the back of the tile slightly to achieve a level surface. For larger discrepancies, you might need to recut the tile.
Q: This is too hard! Can I just call a professional?
A: Absolutely! There's no shame in seeking help. Tiling a backsplash requires precision and practice. If you're feeling overwhelmed, a professional tiler can ensure a flawless finish.
So there you have it! With a little planning, some strategic cutting, and a dash of perseverance, you can conquer those inside corners and achieve a subway tile backsplash that's the envy of the neighborhood (or at least your in-laws).