In the tile installation world, profiles and trims might seem like minor details, but they’re essential to achieving a polished, durable, and professional look. Ben Lampi, Group Product Manager for Grout Sealants and Profiles and Trims at LATICRETE International, shared valuable insights into the purpose, types, materials, and installation techniques of profiles and trims in a recent NTCA Webinar. Learn why these components are essential and how to use them.
Why use profiles and trims?
Profiles and trims are both decorative and functional. They provide a smooth finished edge, protect tile edges from chipping, and help transition between different surfaces, elevating the overall look of the installation. By selecting profiles that either blend with or contrast against tile colors and grout lines, installers can achieve a range of looks – from seamless flow to eye-catching accents.
Profiles also add durability and safety to tile installations. Tile edges are particularly vulnerable to damage; profiles protect them, extending the life of the installation – especially in high-traffic areas. Profiles also prevent sharp edges from becoming a safety hazard if tiles chip or crack over time.
Where can profiles and trims be used?
Profile and trims can accompany nearly any tile in residential homes, commercial spaces like hospitals and restaurants, and high-traffic areas such as airports. Uses include floors, walls, countertops, in both interior and exterior spaces. Their adaptability makes them an excellent choice for installers aiming for both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Types of profiles and trims
There are different types of profiles and trims used in tile installations, each serving specific functions to improve aesthetics and durability. L-shaped profiles are popular for edge protection on walls, countertops, and floors. Round edge profiles add soft decoration to surfaces, while square edge profiles offer a modern, angular finish. Transition profiles connect different types of flooring for a smooth and visually appealing transition.
Choosing the right material
Different materials afford profiles a range of unique benefits. PVC is cost-effective and comes in many colors for light-duty applications. Aluminum is popular and has various finishes from metallic to decorative and is easy to work with. Stainless steel is very durable for heavy-duty environments but requires specific tools to cut due to its hardness.
Installation steps
Proper profile installation is crucial for a smooth and durable finish. Install profiles before laying tiles, following the detailed seven-step process found on www.youtube.com/watch? v=Vi-rmSRJA_A
1. Select the profile.
2. Measure and cut it to size.
3. Mix and apply adhesive, following manufacturer directions.
4. Press the profile firmly into the adhesive, until it flows through the punching,
5. Add more adhesive over the anchoring leg.
6. Install the tile flush or slightly below the profile top edge.
7. Clean the profile surface with water and a sponge after installation.
Specialty profiles for specific needs
Specialty options like cove profiles are available to create sanitary, easy-to-clean transitions in commercial spaces like airports and restaurants with heavy foot traffic. These profiles come in various materials with corner pieces and endcaps. Movement or expansion joint profiles allow for tile expansion and contraction in a large field of tile, and are alternatives for caulk-filled joints, but don’t account for out-of-plane movement.
Key takeaways
Profiles and trims are essential for a professional finish on tile edges, offering beauty, protection, and safety. They come in various shapes and finishes to meet different design needs. To ensure proper performance, it’s crucial to choose the right size and accurately install profiles flush with or a bit above the tile edge. Using the correct cutting tool is necessary for optimal results.
The NTCA Reference Manual, especially Chapter 1, provides more insight on installing profiles, as well as solutions for common installation problems. For webinar details, watch the full video at https://youtu.be/Vi-rmSRJA_A?si=erS0b-Mr6GPXGro0
Elena Grant
Elena Grant is the Assistant Executive Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations for the National Tile Contractors Association and Publisher of its publication TileLetter. Grant has over 20 years of experience leading marketing initiatives, programs, and operational enhancement strategies. As Publisher of TileLetter, she oversees all print and digital communications for the publication.
