Tile Internal Corners Like a Pro: Secrets Revealed!

Achieving a professional finish when tiling internal corners often depends on understanding a few key elements. Consider that schluter profiles provide a clean edge and protect tiles from impact, which is particularly important near showers and bathtubs, areas prone to moisture. The proper application of silicone caulk ensures a waterproof seal, which is essential in preventing mold growth and water damage. Many professionals prefer tools like angle grinders for precise cuts, enabling them to achieve tight fits in challenging spaces. Understanding these points and implementing them is how you can elevate your next tiling project and expertly master the art of tiling internal corners.

Tiling Internal Corners Like a Pro: Secrets Revealed!

Internal corners in tiling projects, where two tiled surfaces meet at an inside angle, can be tricky. This guide provides clear instructions and techniques to achieve professional-looking results when tiling internal corners.

Understanding the Challenges of Tiling Internal Corners

Before diving into the techniques, it’s crucial to understand why internal corners require special attention.

• Water Ingress: Poorly sealed corners are prime locations for water to penetrate behind the tiles, leading to mold growth and structural damage.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Gaps, uneven cuts, or misaligned tiles can significantly detract from the overall appearance of your tiled surface.
• Movement: Buildings naturally shift and settle, placing stress on tiled surfaces. Internal corners are particularly susceptible to cracking if not properly prepared.

Preparing for Tiling Internal Corners

Proper preparation is half the battle when tiling internal corners.

Surface Preparation

1. Clean the Surfaces: Thoroughly clean both surfaces that will form the internal corner. Remove any dust, debris, old grout, or adhesive residue.
2. Check for Level and Plumb: Ensure the surfaces are level and plumb. Significant deviations might require shimming or patching before tiling.
3. Prime the Surfaces: Apply a suitable primer to both surfaces to improve the adhesion of the tile adhesive and waterproof membrane (if applicable). Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Choosing the Right Materials

Selecting the appropriate materials is key for a successful outcome.

• Tile Adhesive: Choose an adhesive suitable for the tile type and substrate. Consider a flexible adhesive for areas prone to movement.
• Grout: Select a grout that is waterproof and suitable for the tile joint width. Epoxy grout offers superior water resistance and stain resistance compared to cement-based grout.
• Silicone Sealant: Use a high-quality, mold-resistant silicone sealant specifically designed for bathrooms and kitchens. Ensure the sealant is color-matched to the grout for a seamless appearance.
• Tile Spacers: Use tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines and ensure proper tile alignment, especially in the corner.

Tiling Techniques for Internal Corners

Several techniques can be employed for tiling internal corners. Here’s a breakdown of the most common and effective methods:

Method 1: Cut and Butt Method

This method involves cutting tiles to fit snugly against each other in the corner.

1. Measure and Cut: Accurately measure the distance from the last full tile to the corner on both surfaces.
2. Cut the Tiles: Use a tile cutter or wet saw to cut the tiles to the required size. Ensure the cuts are clean and precise. A slight bevel on the cut edge can help to minimize chipping.
3. Apply Adhesive: Apply tile adhesive to the back of the cut tiles and carefully position them against the corner, using tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.
4. Press and Secure: Press the tiles firmly into the adhesive and ensure they are flush with the adjacent tiles.
5. Allow to Set: Allow the adhesive to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Method 2: Overlap Method (Less Recommended)

This method involves overlapping one tile over the other in the corner. While simpler, it’s generally less aesthetically pleasing and can create a noticeable ridge.

1. Measure and Cut (One Side): Measure the distance from the last full tile to the corner on one surface.
2. Cut the Tile: Cut the tile to the measured size.
3. Apply Adhesive: Apply adhesive to the back of the cut tile and position it against the corner.
4. Overlap: The tile from the adjacent surface will overlap this tile slightly. Minimal cutting is required for this tile; it’s mostly about fitting it snugly on top.
5. Apply Adhesive: Apply tile adhesive and position the overlapping tile.
6. Allow to Set: Allow the adhesive to cure completely.

Method 3: Using Internal Corner Profiles

Internal corner profiles (also known as tile trim) are plastic or metal strips designed to create a clean, finished edge in internal corners.

1. Measure and Cut Profiles: Measure and cut the corner profiles to the desired length, ensuring they fit snugly in the corner.
2. Apply Adhesive or Mortar: Apply tile adhesive or mortar to the back of the profiles and press them firmly into place along the corner. Some profiles are designed to be installed before tiling, while others are installed after.

3. Tile Around Profiles: Tile up to the profiles, using tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.

   Advantages of using profiles:

   • Provides a clean, professional finish
   • Protects the tile edges from chipping
   • Can create a decorative accent

Grouting and Sealing Internal Corners

After the adhesive has cured, it’s time to grout and seal the internal corners.

1. Remove Tile Spacers: Remove all tile spacers from the grout lines.
2. Apply Grout: Apply grout to the grout lines, working it into the joints with a grout float.
3. Remove Excess Grout: Use a damp sponge to remove excess grout from the tile surfaces.
4. Clean and Polish: Allow the grout to dry slightly, then clean and polish the tile surfaces with a clean cloth.

5. Apply Silicone Sealant: Once the grout has fully cured, apply a bead of silicone sealant to the internal corner where the two tiled surfaces meet.

   Applying Silicone Sealant:

   • Use a caulking gun for precise application.
   • Apply a thin, even bead of sealant along the corner.
   • Smooth the sealant with a wet finger or a sealant smoothing tool to create a clean, concave finish.
   • Remove any excess sealant with a damp cloth.
   • Allow the sealant to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
     

     Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Cracking at the corner	Insufficient movement joint or poor substrate	Ensure a proper movement joint filled with flexible sealant. Reinforce or replace unstable substrate.
Grout cracking	Excessive movement or incorrect grout mixture	Use flexible grout and/or ensure the substrate is stable. Follow grout mixing instructions carefully.
Mold growth	Poor ventilation or inadequate sealing	Improve ventilation and apply mold-resistant sealant regularly. Clean the area with a mold remover.
Uneven tiles at the corner	Inaccurate cuts or uneven surfaces	Recut tiles for a better fit. Level or shim the surfaces before tiling.

So, there you have it – a few secrets to tiling internal corners like a total pro! Go forth, tackle those corners, and impress yourself (and maybe your friends). Happy tiling!