What Is Bullnose Tile? Everything You Need to Know

An often unsung hero of the tiling game, bullnose tiles are akin to a perfect accessory on a well-designed and coordinated outfit: They pull the whole look together. Used to tile around corners or create an elegant transition from a tiled to non-tiled wall, the rounded edges of bullnose tiles can trim a backsplash or a shower niche. Read on to learn everything you need to know about bullnose tiles and how to incorporate them in your bathroom or kitchen design.

What Is Bullnose Tile?

Bullnose tile, also known as edge trim, is typically used to transition from a tiled area to a non-tiled area; it usually has a half-rounded edge to accommodate corners and rough edges or to finish a wall. Through their rounded edges, these tiles create a softer look than typical, sharp-cornered square or rectangular tiles and also cover unfinished tile edges for a clean, finished look.

Standard bullnose tiles have one rounded edge and three square edges (the sides that meet with the field tiles). The rounded edge makes this tile less susceptible to chipping or other damage—another reason why it’s excellent for corners, beyond aesthetics. 

Many tile manufacturers will sell bullnose tiles that match their field tiles, and you can purchase them at the same time so they’re included in the final tile installation cost. That said, it’s possible that the bullnose tiles were produced at a different time as the field tiles, resulting in slightly different finishes. Ask to see a sample of one before buying the lot.

Types of Bullnose Tile

Here are the three main types of bullnose tiles and their most common sizes:

• Rectangular: The most common shape of bullnose tile, these are usually 3 inches by 13 inches. Their long and narrow size allows you to buy only a handful to complete a trim.

• Square: Typically 4 inches by 4 inches or 6 inches by 6 inches, square bullnose tiles are useful for completing a checkered or other patterned tile design. These bullnose tiles will usually be larger than the main tiles.

• Corner: Corner bullnose tiles have two rounded edges instead of one because they are intended to be installed in the corners of a frame. They are typically used in backsplash areas.

Where to Use Bullnose Tile

Bullnose tiles are very versatile and can be used for a variety of tiling projects:

• Walls: When tiling accent walls or backsplashes, the unfinished tile edges will be visible—and very noticeable—if they don’t match the wall. Use bullnose tiles to create an edge around the perimeter of your design for an elegant finish. Ask your tile manufacturer for trim pieces that match your field tiles.

• Baseboards: Use ceramic or porcelain bullnose tiles as a baseboard in places with higher humidity, such as the bathroom or kitchen. In addition to looking nice, the tiles will help prevent moisture damage to your walls.

• Floors: Bullnose tiles can create the ideal transition where a tiled area meets carpet or wood floor. For example, where the kitchen meets the living room. They can also be used in place of a baseboard in bathrooms or other areas with tile floors.

• Corners: Bullnose tiles can be used to transition a tiled area that meets a corner of a non-tiled area, or they can be used in shower niches.

• Decorative trim: Since you’ll be using bullnose tiles as edge tiles, why not choose some decorative ones or ones that create a punchy contrast with the main tiles?

• Showers: You can achieve your shower tile ideas using bullnose tile to create a soft edge where the shower meets the wall.

Pros and Cons of Using Bullnose Tiles 

Here are some quick benefits and drawbacks of bullnose tile to help make your next DIY decision a little easier. 

Pros

• Gives the project a finished look

• Can be the same style and color as the rest of the tiles or a contrasting color for an interesting detail

• Can be used in a variety of applications from floor tiles to shower tiles

• Creates a rounded edge that is less susceptible to crack or chips and is safer if someone runs into it

Cons

• May not be manufactured at the same time as the rest of the tiles leading to variance in appearance

• Size may not match up with the field tiles

• Sometimes considered an outdated design choice

Measuring for Bullnose Tiles 

Measuring for bullnose tiles is surprisingly simple. Because they are sold by the piece, all you need to do is measure the length of the space you’ll be tiling and divide it by the length of the tiel to determine how many you need. 

Let’s consider this example: You’re using bullnose tile as a baseboard around the bathroom. Measure the exposed wall (that’s the wall that isn’t hidden behind cabinets or the bathtub). Let’s say the total measurement of the exposed wall is 9 feet and you’re using tiles that measure 6 inches in length. Multiply nine by 12 to get the total number of inches that need to be tiled, in this case 108 inches. Divide the total number of inches by 6 feet for each tile to get 18 tiles.

How Much Does Bullnose Tile Cost? 

Bullnose tile costs depend on the tile material and the size. For bullnose trim, tile installation costs around $0.90 to $10 per bullnose tile, with some of the most common sizes being 2-by-6 inches, 2-by-12 inches, 3-by-13 inches, 3-by-24 inches, 4-by-4 inches, 6-by-6 inches, and even 4-by-24 inches. You can expect to spend more per tile for tiles made from porcelain or natural stone, like marble.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If the installation process seems complicated, consider hiring a local tile installation professional to complete the job for you. They might be able to get bulk discount pricing on your tile order. Tile professionals also come with all the tools, supplies, and materials that they’ll need to complete the job which can save you from buying tools you may only use once or twice. They may also be able to make recommendations for what will look best in your space.