Bunnings

Sign in or sign up

No Bunnings account? Sign up
or
PowerPass customer?
Visit the dedicated trade website

Project list

Sign in to your account

Person using painters tape inside bathroom niche.

Overview

After installing a tile niche, it's important to make sure the edges and the corners have a professional finish, rather than leaving an exposed tile edge, which can be easily damaged. A tile trim is easy to install and not only reduces how long it will take to lay your tiles, it also protects the edges of your niche and completes the look.

Steps

1Check the thickness of your tiles

Once you've installed the tile niche, the next step is to install the tile trim around the edge. It's important to select the tile trim according to the thickness of your tiles. When you go to buy your trim, it's a good idea to take a piece of tile with you to get the right size.

Person using measuring tape to measure tile niche.

2Measure the length and height of the niche

Use your tape measure to measure the length and height of the tile niche. Take into account that you will be cutting the tile trim at 45-degree angles. Use the marker or pencil to mark these measurements on the tile trim.

Person using measuring tape to measure tile niche.

3Cut the tile trim

Cutting the tile trim is like cutting a picture frame, all of the joins have to be at 45-degree angles. Double check your measurements by placing the trim across the length and height of the niche to make sure they're correct. Place the trim in the mitre box and cut them with a hacksaw. After cutting the trim, use a file to create a nice smooth edge. Repeat this process to cut the three other pieces of trim, making sure that the 45-degree angles at each end of the trim are opposing.

Person cutting tile trim.

4Install the trim

Put the bottom piece of the tile trim into place. Use the painters tape to secure it and make sure it's level. Repeat this process for the trim on the sides and top. Don't nail in the trim, it could compromise the waterproof membrane. Now you've installed the trim, you're ready to start tiling the niche.

Person using painters tape inside bathroom niche.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.