Waterproof caulk generates a flexible and robust bond between tiles and baseboards. Since you may be painting it the color of your trim, you should use a caulk that you can paint. Silicone caulk will peel, and the paint will flake or peel off. The best type to use is paintable and weatherproof acrylic latex caulk.
Use Caulk to Fill the Gap
You will want to line the floor with blue painter's tape to minimize cleanup. You'll want to use a paintable latex silicone caulk to fill the gap. Once the caulk is dried, paint the caulk to match the baseboards.
Tile requires a gap so it doesn't crack and break apart. The gap is covered by baseboards and trim. This should not be a problem for whatever it is you are installing. If you absolutely must fill the gap for reasons unknown, use caulk.
Grout is used to fill spaces in between tiles. Most grout product options come in powder form, but pre-mixed containers are available as well. Whichever option you choose, follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to mix grout.
Using caulk, trim tile pieces and edging are three of the most popular and effective ways to finish tile edges. Caulking is the cheapest and easiest method for finishing tile edges.
It is possible to install tile edge trim after tiling. While in most cases the edge trim is installed with the tile, there are certain profiles designed for retrofitting existing tile assemblies.
– Apply the Grout: Use a grout float held at a 30 – 45-degree angle to press the grout diagonally across the gaps between the tiles. Ensure all gaps are completely filled. Work in small sections to prevent the grout from drying prematurely.
In areas of your home that can get wet, such as showers, we would also suggest leaving a 2mm gap between the trim and the tile edge. This space should then be grouted to minimise the risk of water penetrating between tile and trim.
Cut the caulk tube at an angle, leaving a 1/8” gap. Trim off the end of the caulk tube, then fill the gun with the tube. Run a steady bead of caulk between tile and baseboard. Use a thin caulk layer along the top of your baseboard if needed.
Choosing the best tile caulk
Silicone caulk stays flexible and is preferred in extremely wet areas. It is not paintable though. Acrylic caulk is paintable and easy to work with, which is why it is the more popular choice. A good compromise is a silicone-fortified acrylic tile caulk.
Even flush trim will likely come loose from walls and windows over time, creating little gaps. Before painting over these gaps and crevices, caulking is a perfect way to make sure your finished project looks as good as the picture you had in your head.
Apply and Clean: Spread the grout using a squeegee diagonally across the tiles, pressing it into the gaps. Once applied, remove excess grout from the surface with the help of a squeegee before cleaning it with a damp sponge/scrubber in a circular motion to avoid pulling grout from the joints.
Generally, silicone is most effective for small to medium-sized gaps, typically ranging from ⅛ inches to ½ inches. Attempting to seal large gaps with a single application may result in collapse or shrinkage. When facing wider gaps, epoxy-based sealants or specialized gap-filling products may be a better choice.
Filling gaps in a wood baseboard trim involves using wood filler or caulk. Apply the filler into the gap with a putty knife, ensuring it fills completely and is level with the trim surface. Allow it to dry, then sand lightly to smooth and blend with the surrounding trim.
Caulk or grout should be used preferably to professionally deal with gaps that might exist between tiles and edge trims. It needs to be applied with a caulk gun or grout float in equal distribution to provide a moisture barrier to your installation.
You should also choose a tile trim that matches the depth of the tile as this will create a flush, professional look.
Typically, carpenters or baseboard installers will account or the flooring to run under the baseboard. This floor is commonly hardwood floors, tile, or carpet. With that said, the gap they leave will vary based on their instructions or what they anticipate the flooring type will be.
LATEX MODIFIED GROUT
It is an ideal choice for gap filler for tiles in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and showers. The latex modification improves the grout's durability and reduces the risk of cracking or shrinking over time, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Caulk can hide small gaps and chips easily. Another tip is to use tile trims. These can cover rough edges and give a clean look. They come in different materials and finishes, making them perfect for various styles.
Thinset (also called thinset mortar, thinset cement, dryset mortar, or drybond mortar) is an adhesive mortar made of cement, fine sand and a water-retaining agent such as an alkyl derivative of cellulose. It is usually used to attach tile or stone to surfaces such as cement or concrete.
One effective way to elevate the look of exposed tile edges is by enhancing them with grout color or texture. Instead of using a traditional grout that matches the tile color, opt for a contrasting hue to make the edges stand out. A darker or lighter grout color can create a subtle or bold contrast, respectively.
The only occasion where a trim is not needed is when tiles meet flush against other surfaces, making edging unnecessary.