Stem wall - Tiling v/s other options.

[Arkive]

I have a large garage that I'm about to pull the trigger on tiling myself and there's an 18" stem wall that runs the perimeter of the space. I think tiling it with matching tile would obviously look the best, but this is already a 1400 sqft job so I would *really* appreciate some aesthetic alternatives Is there a good product to "skim" the surface with that lasts and looks decent? I could just paint it but it would still look like cinderblock to some degree, and it would stick out next to the tile more than I think I'd care for.

I'd also be interested in suggestions for creating rounded edges both where the tile meets the wall (for easier sweeping) and where the tiles meets the top of the stem wall and goes horizontal for 4-6" before intersecting with the actual wall. Is there a method/tool for creating a roundover on a tile (rectified tile in this case, so it definitely needs an edge treatment of some kind there). Hopefully that wasn't too confusing.

 

[ddawg16]

I can appreciate your issue..............

18" Stem wall?

That means you're going to have drywall (or something else) above it.

Me? I'd paint it. Why? You're going to want some paint scheme on the walls. I don't think you can get tile to work with it without it looking odd. Just paint the ***** a slightly darker color and call it done. That is assuming they do a decent job with with the concrete.

Look at the link of my garage build and you will see my paint scheme.

 

[Dakota00]

I skim coated and texture finished my stem walls using a finishing coat for stucco. Product is available in many colors, it's easy to apply and very durable once cured.