Edging for Copper Tiles

Border Tiles

• Opt for copper border tiles if you want edging that harmonizes with your copper tile design. Copper border tiles are long narrow tiles that are installed around the perimeter of your square-tiled surface. A standard border tile is 2 inches wide and 12 inches long. Measure the perimeter of the tiled space to determine the length of copper border you need. Install copper border tiles using the same mortar application process used to install the square tiles.

Small Square Bullnose Tiles

• Choose small copper square tiles as edging around larger tiles. Select 2-inch squares with an imprinted design to add visual interest to plain 4-inch square copper tiles. Measure the perimeter of the tiled surface to determine the number of 2-inch copper tiles needed to outline the area. Ask the Builder recommends edging with tiles that have a finished edge on at least one side of the tile, often referred to as bullnose tiles. Choose copper-colored bullnose tiles with soft rounded edges to edge along your larger tiles. If you install copper tiles as a backsplash around your stove or sink, you don't need to install edging along the border where the tile meets the appliance.

Coordinating Metal Trim

• Purchase coordinating metal border tiles to use as edging. Opt for stainless steel, brushed nickel or faux tin border tiles, in 2-by-12-inch strips, to install as edging around your copper tiles. Blend the coordinating metal border tile with your copper tile by installing a few regular square metal tiles in with the square copper tiles. The end result is a shiny mosaic of tile that has an attractive industrial appeal. Purchase coordinating metal tiles that have the same type of backing as your copper tiles, so your application process is the same.

Grout Only

• Use grout as edging if you want a smooth, flat copper surface without a contrasting border. Since grout is used between the tiles to ensure adhesion and eliminate space, you can use grout as an outline around your copper tiles. Opt for nonsanded grout to harmonize with the sleek, shiny appearance of copper. Avoid installing wood, vinyl or ceramic edging that clashes with the rosy metallic color and sheen associated with copper.