5 Options for a Carpet to Tile Transition

by DoItYourself Staff

It's important to carefully choose the style of carpet to tile transition you use in your home to make sure the transition looks good and lasts for years of wear and tear. Here are some options to consider when deciding the type of carpet to tile transition that best works for your home.

Aluminum Trim

This is a metal strip installed at the edge of the carpet just before the tile begins. Each strip of trim is usually 1/4 inch wide and is tacked to the edge of the carpet to prevent the carpet from fraying at the edges. Aluminum trim as a carpet to tile transition option is available in many styles so it's easy to find a trim that meets your decor and decorating needs. Examples of aluminum trim include shiny silver, shiny gold, aluminum champagne, and aluminum titanium.

Brass Trim

Brass trim works the same way as aluminum trim and is installed at the edge of the carpet before the ceramic tile begins. Like aluminum trim, brass trim comes in strips that are typically 1/4 inch wide. Most commonly sold in 8 foot sections. The profile nose of the trim has a gradual slope for a seamless transition between the two types of flooring. Style options are more limited with brass trim although different patterns on the trim are available.

Stainless Steel Trim

This type of carpet to tile transition is highly durable and good for high traffic areas. It can also handle moisture well and doesn't easily rust, although extended submersion is not recommended. Like the previous two trims, stainless steel trim is installed over the edge of the carpet to create a gradual slope between the carpet and ceramic floor for a seamless transition. Usually sold in 8-foot sections and available in a variety of profile heights between 5/16 inch and 1/2 inch.

Butt the Carpet

Simply butting the carpet directly against the ceramic tile during installation is another way to transition between the two types of floors. The carpet needs to be well tacked to reduce the chance of it coming loose. The downside to this method is that there will be a floor height difference and the sharp edge could cause stubbed toes and other foot injuries when walking. There's also the chance of chipping the ceramic floor when vacuuming.

Carpet Shims

Carpet shims are small water-resistant boards made out of natural fibers and engineered resins that go under the carpet to create a smooth and invisible carpet to tile transition. When installed, it can be cut to size with a carpet knife. Shims last for years, do not rust or warp and can also be used on concrete. Most brands of carpet shims are not waterproof, but many are water-resistant to be soaked for up to 60 minutes without causing warping. Check for brands that have conducted studies to guarantee the product can withstand large amounts of weight without the shim cracking or compressing.