How To Install A Schluter Tile Edge

By  Josh Hulbert

Things Needed

  • Schluter tile edge

  • Thinset mortar

  • Level

  • Tape measure

  • Trowel

  • Hack saw

Tip

Make all adjustments to the position of the Schluter edge prior to setting tiles over it. Buy an additional piece or two of the Schluter edge in case of cutting mistakes.

Warning

Once the thinset has dried, the Schluter edge will be firmly embedded in the thinset, and cannot be easily removed without removing all the edge tiles. Ensure everything is positioned and aligned properly at the installation time.

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Schluter tile edges are available in a variety of styles and are suitable for countertops, floors, walls and backsplashes. They offer visual interest, edge/corner protection and a means of finishing an exposed tile edge without the need for additional tools such as a polisher. Schluter tile edge must be installed before the tile is set.

Select the Proper Edge

Step 1

Measure the thickness of the tile with which the Schluter edge will be used. If the tiles are not all the same thickness, as with slate for example, find the measurement of the thickest tile and use that.

Step 2

Select a Schluter edge with a profile height tall enough to prevent the tile edge from showing, but not by more than 1/32 inch.

Step 3

Acquire enough linear feet of Schluter edge to complete the job, as it will have to be installed while the thinset is workable.

Install Schluter Edge

Step 1

Measure and cut the Schluter edge to length as needed. Corners can be mitered, or Schluter corner pieces may also be purchased. Make cuts with a fine-toothed hack saw.

Step 2

Dry fit the pieces before putting down any thinset. If a piece is too long, make small cuts to adjust the fit. If a piece is too short, a new one will have to be cut.

Step 3

Begin troweling the thinset, laying the tiles up to but not including the edge tiles.

Step 4

Prior to laying the edge tiles, press the anchoring legs of the Schluter edge into the thinset at the edge of the work surface. The legs should be well embedded in the thinset. Adjust the Schluter edge and check the position with a level.

Step 5

Use the trowel to spread additional thinset over the anchoring legs.

Set Tile Onto Schluter Edge

Step 1

Lay the edge tiles in the thinset with the top of the tile flush with the top of the Schluter edge. The Schluter edge should be as tall as the tile edge, but not taller.

Step 2

Make full contact between the tile and the Schluter edge to maintain a consistent space between the tiles.

Step 3

After the thinset has dried and the tiles are set, grout between the tiles as well as between the tiles and the Schluter edge.

References

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