How to Install Tile on an Internal Corner

There are many things to consider when determining how to install tile, especially on a corner. Luckily, tile installation is not a difficult skill to master, and you can easily do it yourself just as good as a professional if you plan carefully, and follow these simple steps.

Step 1 – Plan of Attack

Do a dry layout of your tiles to get an idea for your best layout and where your cuts will need to be. Snap chalk lines to mark your first row of tiles, and the perimeter of your corner piece. Measure out an eight of an inch from the wall and the corner, to accommodate grout.

Step 2 – Determine Your Starting Point

Whether you plan to start with your internal corner, finish with it, or do it somewhere in between, figure out ahead of time when you will be ready for this task. Because fitting tile into a corner requires some extra work and planning, it is wise to set this tile before you set the pieces around it. That way you can use it as a guide for tiles that do not run along walls, and ensure, if your cut is off, that you have more tiles to work with.

Step 3 – Cutting Corners

Mark your cut lines on the top of the tile with a felt tip pen when you are ready to fit your tile to your inside corner. Use your tile cutter to score the lines and then carefully tap out the corner or use a wet saw to cut it out. Do a dry fit to the corner, making sure there is an 8 inch gap.

Step 4 – Applying Adhesive

Depending on the type of tile you are using, check with the manufacturer’s instructions for how to apply the thin set and set the tile. They will direct you to the type of notched trowel to use and whether to apply the adhesive to the back of the tile or to the surface you are tiling. Do not apply too thick a coat, but make sure trowel well to allow space for the tile to settle. Use the chalk line as a guide as you gently but firmly set the tile into place.

Step 5 – Space it Out

Use spacers to ensure even gaps for your tiles as you set them, starting with your perimeter and corner tiles. These spacers will determine the grout lines and can be removed once your thin set has started to dry.

Allow several days for your thin set to dry, and do not walk on any tiled floor until it has. Once it has dried, apply your grout, making sure to get it on the inside edge of your corner tiles. With proper planning, good measurements and cuts, you should have clean corners, and a beautiful tiled surface.