When to Put the Bullnose On When Tiling a Bathroom Floor

During Field Installation

• The first option to install bullnose tile on a floor installation is with the actual field tile. While many bullnose tiles are sold in the same size as field tile, sometimes they are a different size. But if you want continuity, install everything at the same time after you have measured for the differences in sizes and laid out the floor accordingly.

After Field Installation

• After the field installation is another choice for installing bullnose tile, although it is generally reserved only for instances in which a custom type of bullnose is needed. A good example would be a curved termination point, such as the vertical drop-off for a step that has a custom curve to it. In this case, install the field tile as close as you can and measure and cut the bullnose piece and install it afterward.

Ease of Installation

• The choice of when to install bullnose tile largely comes down to personal preference. For ease of installation, install it when you install the field tile because you already have all the tools set up, the thinset mortar mixed and you are in work mode. However, not all projects work out this way, so be flexible enough to adjust the timing.

Expert Opinion

• The best time to install bullnose tile for commercial jobs is during the installation of the field tile, but for custom projects you need to save it for last. Complex termination points, such as a floating walkway between pavilions in a mall or a hospital or even a house, will require each individual piece of bullnose be cut down and rounded off by a custom shop. This cannot be done during the field installation.