Skirting tiles are a terrific alternative to traditional timber skirting boards since they are more durable and come in a variety of shapes and colours to fit any home. Re-painting skirting boards that have been scuffed or dented is a maintenance task that many homes do not require, particularly in high-usage areas such as corridors or splash-zone areas such as a bathroom or kitchen. Tile has the durability and water resistance that pine or MDF boards do not, so consider the suggestions and inspiration below when contemplating alternatives.
See also: Roof Tiles Design: Different types of tiles with images
What are skirting tiles?
Skirting tiles are tiles installed along the seam between a room’s wall and floor in the same way “regular” skirting boards are. Tiles may be used in place of wooden skirting boards to create a skirting impression, and they can be trimmed to a comparable height as standard skirting, depending on the size of the floor tile.
Skirting tiles provides both functional and aesthetic benefits. Tiles visibly link the floor to the walls, producing a smooth transition between them. Skirting tiles are not only attractive but also quite useful. It is considerably simpler to keep your floor clean since you can steam clean right up to the boundaries of a room without worrying about ruining the painted wood of traditional skirting. Once sealed, skirting tiles requires little upkeep, so you won’t have to replace them year after year like you would with wooden skirting.
Know about: dado tiles
Types of skirting tiles
There are several types of skirting tiles available, each designed to cater to different needs and styles. Here are the main categories:
Floor skirting tiles
These skirting tiles are installed at the base of the wall, where it meets the floor. Their primary purpose is to cover the joint between the wall and the floor, offering protection from damage caused by foot traffic, furniture and cleaning tools. Floor skirting tiles also provide a neat transition between different flooring materials. They come in various heights and designs to complement different interior themes.
Wall skirting tiles
While less common than floor skirting tiles, wall skirting tiles are gaining popularity for their ability to create a unique and sophisticated look. These tiles are fixed slightly above the floor level and extend upwards along the wall. They serve as a decorative element, adding a touch of elegance to the room. Wall skirting tiles are particularly effective in spaces where you want to create a sense of luxury and architectural detailing.
Border skirting tiles
Border skirting tiles are designed to enhance the visual impact of the skirting area. They can be installed along the upper edge of floor skirting tiles, adding an extra layer of design and texture. Border skirting tiles are often narrower and more intricate in design compared to standard skirting tiles. They can be used to introduce patterns, colours and contrast to the skirting area, elevating the overall aesthetic of the room.
Uses of skirting tiles
Here are some of the many ways in which skirting tiles can be used.
Install skirting tiles in the bathroom
It is conceivable to include timber skirting board ideas in areas with high humidity and the potential for splash zones, but this may need care that you would want to avoid. Using tiles for skirting could ideally be a cost-effective alternative. Depending on the tiles used, it can be more cost effective than traditional timber skirting, with the added bonus of not requiring care. Match the flooring to the skirting by using similar types of wood effects or even the same tile trimmed down to the proper size with a touch of trim to finish the look.
Source: Pinterest
Select ceramic tiles for high-traffic areas
Porcelain vs ceramic tiles for skirting? While these are solid possibilities, the location where you are putting the tile is likely to make this decision for you. Ceramic tiles are ideally suited for hallways and living spaces, where foot traffic is high; however, because of their porous nature, porcelain may be more suitable for bathrooms or kitchens.
Source: Pinterest
Install porcelain skirting tiles in wet areas
Porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for tiled skirting. Not only do they offer a high-quality surface that will enhance the overall beauty of your space, but they’re also sturdy and resilient, as well as simple to clean, and due to their porous nature, they are great for wet areas. Because porcelain tiles are more costly, more difficult to place, and heavier than ceramic tiles, a thinner profile skirting board size may be appropriate.
Source: Pinterest
Use a shape to distinguish between wall tiles and skirting tiles
Tiles, like conventional skirting patterns, can have specific forms such as pencil-round or ogee. Tiled skirting provides a more visually pleasing finish because it provides a clean transition between the wall and floor areas.
Keeping your floor clean is considerably easier if you have tiled skirting since you don’t have to worry about ruining the timber. The sleek effect is unmistakable when matched with a pseudo-dado rail, like in this period-style bathroom.
Source: Pinterest
Install skirting tiles in areas with uneven walls
When researching how to install skirting boards, you may see that scribing or caulking is required on older, bowed walls to provide a neater finish. The installation of tiled skirting is far more forgiving than that of tiled walls since tile adhesive can be built up to compensate for uneven walls, producing a smooth, level finish.
Source: Pinterest
wSelect contrasting tiles for contemporary skirting
Consider modern skirting designs and utilising a dark colour to create a contrast between bathroom tile ideas.
Source: Pinterest
Know about: Different types of tiles
Experiment with half-wall tiling in a hallway
This unique twist on half-wall panelling ideas would be ideal for narrow corridors and stairwells where plaster can become scratched and cracked due to excessive use.
Source: Pinterest
Installation of skirting tiles
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a successful installation:
- Prepare the wall surface: Ensure that the wall is level, clean and smooth before you begin laying the skirting tiles.
- Dry-fit the skirting tiles: Place the skirting tiles on top of the floor tiles and against the wall to get an idea of how they will fit. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments before applying adhesive.
- Cutting the tiles: If required, cut the skirting tiles to fit specific corners or edges. The same tile cutters that were used for the floor tiles can be employed for cutting the skirting tiles.
- Apply adhesive: Spread adhesive onto the backer board in the areas where the skirting tiles will be placed. This adhesive provides a strong bond between the tiles and the wall.
- Position the skirting tiles: Gently press the skirting tiles onto the adhesive, ensuring they align with the floor tiles and sit flush against the wall. To maintain uniform spacing between the tiles, insert plastic spacers.
- Remove excess adhesive: After positioning the tiles, use a brush to remove any excess adhesive that might have seeped out from the edges.
- Secure the tiles: To ensure a secure bond, gently tap the tiles into place using a mallet and a leveller. This step helps the tiles adhere evenly to the wall and floor.
- Grout the joints: Apply grout to the gaps between the skirting tiles, filling them completely. This not only reinforces the tiles’ stability but also adds to the overall appearance.
- Finishing touches: Once the grout has cured, inspect the installation for any imperfections. If needed, apply grout sealant to protect the grout from moisture and stains. Wipe away any excess grout or sealant to achieve a clean and polished finish.
Cost of skirting tiles
The cost of skirting tiles vary based on various factors such as type of tile, manufacturer, design, pattern, etc. Generally, the price of these tiles range between Rs 28 square per foot and Rs 327 per square foot.
FAQs
What kind of tiles are used for skirting boards?
Ceramic or stone tiles can be utilised, and the skirting can be matched to the floor or walls, or a contrast can be created with ornate border tiles.
What is the finest skirting board material?
If you want a classic look with stained or bare wooden skirting, hardwood is the best choice.
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