How To Tile Around A Window

The interior design of many bathrooms and kitchens features tiling.

With this in mind, it’s no surprise that many homeowners across the country often opt for this aesthetic when decorating these rooms in their houses. However, if you’ve never done it before, tiling can be a DIY task that seems overwhelming and difficult.

In particular, it can be fiddly and precise and if you don’t have the right tools and equipment your dream bathroom plans can quickly turn into a bit of a nightmare. This is especially the case when it comes to tiling around a window.

If you’re wondering how to tile around a window, we’re here to help. By following the handy guide below, you’ll be left with a seamlessly tiled aesthetic no matter what room you’re working on.

What You Need To Tile Windows

Before starting work on tiling around a window, it’s important you have the correct materials and equipment to perform the task effectively this includes the following:

A saw
Tiles
Tile adhesive
Tile spacers
A spirit level
A trowel
Grout
A sponge
Caulk
A measuring tape
A pencil
Safety goggles or glasses
Sandpaper
Cloths or rags
Trim

What Is A Tile Trim?

Perhaps the most fundamental piece of equipment you need for tiling, especially around a window, is trim. A tile trim, sometimes known as an edge trim or tile edging, is a product that is used to create a clean and professional-looking edge between the tiles and other surfaces.

It’s used to finish the edges of a tiled area, most typically the corners – something that is crucial when tiling around a window. Without it, you might be left with a scruffy or unfinished-looking wall.

A tile trim serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose when installing tiles, helping to protect the tiles’ exposed edges while also offering a visually pleasing transition.

You can get tile trims in a whole host of materials (metal, plastic, PVC and more), colours and thickness. You can pick one up at your local DIY or hardware store so consider which type is best for you before starting your project.

How To Tile Around A Window

Now you’ve prepared all your equipment, you’re ready to begin tiling the window. Remember, tiling around a window takes both patience and precision. If you’re new to tiling, it’s a good idea to practice on a smaller area first before tackling a more complex task such as this.

You may have already tiled the remainder of the room prior to approaching the window. This is a good way to get familiar with the tiling process before attempting adding tiles around your window.

Prepare The Surface

First, prepare the surface by ensuring it is clean, dry and smooth. Remove any old tiles, wallpaper or debris.

You might need to use sandpaper, a scraper or even add a coat of cement plaster to ensure the area is flat and easy to work with. Be sure to wear your safety goggles to protect your eyes throughout the process.

Take Your Measurements

Once the area has been prepared, you can begin taking measurements.

Ensuring the tiling around your window remains square (in other words straight) is extremley important. If not, it’ll look wonky and you’ll likely end up doing it again. To prevent this from happening, grab your spirit level and measure between the top and bottom of the gaps on either side of the window – this will help you make sure it’s straight.

Also, measure the width and height of the window opening marking the dimensions on the wall with a pencil. This will help you plan your tile layout.

Cut Tiles If Necessary

Next, lay your tiles on the flat surface to visualise what they will look like. At this stage, you may need to make any necessary cuts to your tiles to ensure they fit.

If there is any overhang on the tile, mark this with your pencil. You can then make any adjustments with your saw. Remember, always leave more tile than you think you’ll need. You can always make further adjustments and cuts later.

Add Trim

Now you can add your trim to the window which will help give you a great finish. Cut four strips for the window edges with 45-degree cuts for the corners. Use your saw to make these cuts.

Apply Adhesive

Once the trim is in place you can apply the adhesive.

Begin from the centre of the window sill or the central line of the window and apply the adhesive in small quantities to the wall using a trowel. Repeat this until the entire area has been covered.

Tile The Inside Of The Window

Now you can start adding the tiles to the inside of the window.

Press the tiles into the adhesive, starting from the centre and working your way outward. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps between the tiles for your grout.

Take Corner Cuts

This bit can be a bit fiddly. If you need to make a corner cut to make the tile fit, spin it 180 degrees so that the cut edge is facing you. Mark with a pencil how much of the tile needs to be cut, and cut it to the appropriate size.

Fit The Corners

Once cut, remember to spin it around again so the clean side faces outwards. Then, simply slot it back into place.

Grout The Tiles

Once all your tiles are in place, leave the adhesive to dry by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

After it has dried, you’re ready to get grouting. Use a damp sponge throughout this process to ensure excess grout is removed from the tiles. Regularly rinse the sponge to ensure it remains clean.

Clean Up

The grout will normally take around 24-48 hours to set. Once this has occurred, you can clean up any dirt from the process using a cloth. If necessary, caulk around the edges of the window where the tiles meet the frame.

Finishing Touches

Inspect the area for any obvious imperfections or areas that need touching up.

Once that is done, enjoy your newly tiled window!

How To Fit A Tile Around A Window Without Trim

While we wouldn’t recommend it, you can still tile a window without trim.

Here’s how:

Take your measurements and cut tiles to the correct size
Cut tiles to size
Apply adhesive and stick to the wall around the window, leaving space for tile spacers
Make any necessary cuts or adjustments to tiles
Allow adhesive to dry and grout between tiles
Clean excess grout and address any imperfections or errors

Tiling A Window Sill

Tiling the window sill itself is also a popular decor idea that is great to try.

Before you start, make sure the window sill has a flat edge to work with. You can do this by trimming it down using a saw.

Then, give the surface a proper rubdown using sandpaper. This will give you a great surface that should be easier for your tiles to adhere to.

Next, all you need to do is measure your tiles against the space and get sticking!