Replies

1. 
   BryanSayer | Oct 14, 2005 07:01pm | #1

   I did tile first, and I imagine if you have the option that is the prefered way. Although I can imagine that certain designs might need trim first. But usually, in retrofit jobs, the trim is cut to allow the tile to slide underneath it.

2. 
   PhillGiles | Oct 14, 2005 07:15pm | #2

   In my limited experience, it depends on when they can schedule the trim guy, the painters and the tile layer - in tract houses they seem to prefer to put in the base first to get it painted and do the tile later; in upscale houses, they usually paint the wall, put down the tile, hang the base.

   .
   Phill Giles
   The Unionville Woodwright
   Unionville, Ontario
3. 
   csnow | Oct 14, 2005 09:19pm | #3

   I vote tile first.  Otherwise you create a 'well' for water to sink into under the baseboard.  Also looks more finished, since it hides the seam.

   Though, wooden baseboards in bathrooms would not be my first choice.  I prefer tile part way up the walls so you can really hose things down.

   It's easy to find really nice tile pieces that have fancy trim profiles now.

4. 
   jrnbj | Oct 14, 2005 10:33pm | #4

   Sad but true fact, almost no one does the old style, where wall cove tile goes first, then floor field tile butts to it.....lay it out well, & there aren't noticably odd cuts in the field tile, and no ugly gaps btwn the tile & base
   (I eagerly await the inevitable "but where's the expansion room" comment...LOL)

5. 
   txlandlord | Oct 15, 2005 01:08am | #5

   Old time custom builder here, also done lots of remodeling and additions.

   We install trim / doors / shelving / cabinets / etc. prior to any type of floor covering. 

   We raise the baseboard up about 1/2".  Tile slides under and we install shoemold or 3/4 x 3/4 quarter round at the bottom of the baseboard after tile installation.

   Reasons:

   Easier to paint or stain with no tile.

   Reduced construction traffic on the tile floor after install.

   Raised baseboard reveals whole baseboard profile.

   Shoemold or 1/4 round produces nice look and helps with variances.