Retiling your kitchen backsplash can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. However, before taking on a backsplash retiling project, it’s important to understand the costs involved so you can budget appropriately. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key factors that influence backsplash retiling costs and provide cost estimates to help you plan your kitchen remodel.

Key Factors That Influence Backsplash Retiling Costs

Several variables impact the total cost of retiling a kitchen backsplash. The main factors include:

Size of the Backsplash Area

The size of the area you need to retile is a major cost driver. A larger backsplash area requires more tile and labor hours to complete. Standard backsplash dimensions are about 4 feet high by the length of your countertops. However, some backsplashes extend higher up the wall or wrap around additional walls. Measure your backsplash area in square feet to estimate materials needed.

Tile Type and Materials

Tile material costs range widely, from $2 to $50 per square foot. Natural stone and glass tile tend to be more expensive than ceramic. Tile finish and size also affect price, with polished, matte, or mosaic tiles costing more than basic types. In addition to tile, factor in the cost of grout, mortar, sealants, and any accent tiles.

Labor Costs

Professional retiling labor typically ranges from $50 to $100 per hour. Labor accounts for 50-70% of your total tiling costs. The project’s complexity and the tile installer’s skill level impact the hourly rate and time required.

Removal and Disposal Fees

If you’re replacing an existing backsplash, you’ll need to factor in demolition, removal, and disposal fees. Your tile installer may charge $1-3 per square foot for this service. Renting a dumpster can also add costs for large jobs.

Pattern and Design Complexity

Simple straight-laid patterns are the most budget-friendly. Diagonal layouts, mosaics, mixing tile sizes, banding, and other intricate designs require more tile cutting and labor, increasing costs. The tile color scheme also affects pricing.

Cost Factors Per Square Foot

To calculate the estimated cost of your backsplash retiling project, you’ll need to consider the cost per square foot of the key components:

Tile: $2-50 per sq. ft.
Thinset mortar: $0.80-1.25 per sq. ft.
Grout: $0.65-1 per sq. ft.
Labor: $5-10 per sq. ft.

Add up the low and high estimates for each material to get a cost range per square foot. For example:

Tile: $2-$50
Thinset mortar: $0.80-$1.25
Grout: $0.65-$1
Labor: $5-$10
Total per sq. ft.: $8.45-$62.25

Multiply this by the size of your backsplash area for the estimated project price range.

Typical Backsplash Retiling Costs by Size

Using typical per square foot costs and standard backsplash sizes, here are some examples of estimated retiling costs:

4×4 ft backsplash – 16 sq ft
- Low end estimate: 16 sq ft x $8.45 per sq ft = $135
- High end estimate: 16 sq ft x $62.25 per sq ft = $996
4×8 ft backsplash – 32 sq ft
- Low end estimate: 32 sq ft x $8.45 per sq ft = $270
- High end estimate: 32 sq ft x $62.25 per sq ft = $1,992
4×12 ft backsplash – 48 sq ft
- Low end estimate: 48 sq ft x $8.45 per sq ft = $405
- High end estimate: 48 sq ft x $62.25 per sq ft = $2,988

Keep in mind, costs for high-end tile and premium labor may exceed the high estimates here. Larger and more complex projects will also cost more overall.

Cost to Retile Backsplash by Tile Type

Tile material costs have a major impact on your total project price. Here are typical tile prices per square foot and the estimated cost range to install each tile type:

Ceramic Tile

Tile cost per sq ft: $2-$10
Estimated install cost per sq ft: $10-$20

Porcelain Tile

Tile cost per sq ft: $4-$20
Estimated install cost per sq ft: $12-$30

Natural Stone Tile

Tile cost per sq ft: $15-$50
Estimated install cost per sq ft: $20-$60

Glass Tile

Tile cost per sq ft: $10-$50
Estimated install cost per sq ft: $15-$60

Mosaic Tile

Tile cost per sq ft: $5-$20
Estimated install cost per sq ft: $10-$30

Factors That Increase Costs

Some additional aspects of your backsplash retiling project can drive costs higher. Be aware of these potential premium charges:

Difficult access areas requiring scaffolding or lifts
Extensive demolition of existing backsplash
Mold remediation or wall repairs needed
Outlet relocations or electrical work
Specialty grouts (epoxy, colored, etc.)
Custom or intricate tile patterns
Accent tiles, bands, borders, or trim
Rush orders or expedited shipping fees

Cost Saving Tips

If your budget is limited, here are some ways to reduce costs on your backsplash retiling project:

Shop sales and clearance for tile materials
Use a simple tile layout like a straight lay or single offset pattern
Install tile on just a single focal wall rather than the whole kitchen
Use DIY installation if experienced with tiling
Choose smaller 4×4 or 6×6 inch tile sizes rather than large tiles
Use white grout instead of colored grout
Reuse existing backsplash area rather than expanding it
Get multiple bids and negotiate pricing
Provide your own materials to reduce markup
Have project done during tiling company’s slower season

Hiring a Tile Installation Contractor

Unless you’re an experienced DIYer, hiring a professional tile setter is recommended for backsplash installation. Here are some tips for finding a qualified contractor:

Review online portfolios to view past tiling work.
Verify licensing, insurance, and bonding.
Ask about experience with kitchen backsplash projects specifically.
Request references from recent clients.
Get at least 3-4 written estimates for cost comparison.
Check ratings on Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, or the Better Business Bureau.
Look for maintenance services or warrantees on workmanship.

Be sure to get a written contract outlining specific project details, materials being used, timeline, payment schedule, and other expectations before work begins.

Retiling a Backsplash Yourself

With proper planning and preparation, retiling a backsplash DIY is achievable for many homeowners. Here’s an overview of what’s involved:

Gather Supplies

Tile, mortar, grout, sealant
Mixing buckets, notched trowel, grout float
Tile spacers, tape, cutter, gloves, sponges

Prep the Area

Clear countertops and remove existing tile
Clean and sand surface as needed
Apply any wall repairs or mold treatment

Lay New Tile

Plan tile layout and make cuts
Apply thinset mortar with notched trowel
Set tiles with spacers and allow to set
Apply grout between tile joints
Clean excess grout off tiles

Finishing Touches

Apply grout sealer once cured
Caulk edges and joints with silicone
Clean and polish tiles
Seal tiles if needed per manufacturer

The Bottom Line

The total cost to retile your kitchen backsplash can range considerably based on the factors outlined here. In general, you can expect to invest anywhere from $100 for small DIY projects to $3,000+ for large professional jobs with premium materials. With proper planning and budgeting, retiling your backsplash can give your kitchen a beautiful new look and provide years of enjoyment in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retiling a Kitchen Backsplash

Retiling your kitchen backsplash is an involved project with many details to consider. Homeowners often have questions about backsplash removal, costs, tile options, DIY installation, and more. Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about retiling a backsplash.

How do I remove an existing backsplash?

To remove tile from a backsplash:

Clear off countertops and carefully remove any mounted accessories.
Using a putty knife, hammer, or pry bar, work around tile edges to break mortar bonds.
Start from the top and work down, applying force to loosen whole sheets of tile if possible.
Stack and discard removed tiles.
Use a scraper, chisel, or oscillating tool to remove remaining thinset mortar on the wall.
Sand and clean the wall surface in preparation for new tile.

Can I install a new backsplash directly over the old one?

It is not recommended to install new tile directly over an existing backsplash. The old tile likely has grout lines, uneven surfaces, or other issues that will cause problems under the new tile. Tearing out the old backsplash completely provides the smoothest surface for proper thinset adhesion.

How long does a backsplash tiling project take?

The timeline can range from 1-5 days depending on the backsplash size and complexity. Demolition of the old tile adds 1-2 days. New tile installation may take 2-3 days between mortar cure times. Grout sealing, caulking, and finishing extends the project 1-2 more days.

What’s the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?

Ceramic tile is generally made from red or white clay fired at lower temperatures, making it more porous. Porcelain contains denser refined clay fired at very high temperatures, making it harder and more impervious to moisture. Porcelain is more durable and stain resistant.

Can you put tile backsplash in a rental kitchen?

Installing a tile backsplash in a rental home is generally not recommended, since the landlord may not approve it or you may have to remove it before moving out. Temporary peel-and-stick tile or wallpaper backsplash may be better options for renters. Always get written approval before doing permanent modifications.

Is it cheaper to do backsplash tile DIY vs hiring a pro?

The potential cost savings of DIY backsplash installation vs hiring a professional will depend on the tile you select and how confident you feel doing the work. While DIY does save on labor fees, mistakes and rework can eat up those savings quickly if you lack tiling experience.

What tools do I need to tile a backsplash?

Essential tools for tiling a backsplash include: tile cutter, carbide tile saw, tape measure, level, tile spacers, notched trowel, grout floats, mixing buckets, sponges, buckets, safety gear like gloves and goggles. Useful optional tools are a tile scribe, oscillating tool, wet saw, laser level, and grout sealer applicator.

Should tiles go all the way to the ceiling?

While full height backsplashes are a dramatic design choice, typically tiles should stop about 4 feet above countertops. Going all the way to the ceiling often looks busy or overwhelming. Standard height around 18-24 inches up from counters suits most kitchens best.

How long does grout take to dry before sealing?

Grout requires a full 72 hours to cure before applying any sealer or going on the tiles. Quick-dry grouts may claim shorter cure times but still need a minimum 48 hours before sealing for proper hardness and moisture evaporation. Patience leads to better grout durability.

Can you use bathroom tile for a kitchen backsplash?

Bathroom and wall tile can generally be used for backsplashes, provided it is rated for wet areas and has a durable glazed surface. Porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone tiles rated for floors can withstand heat and stains. Avoid unglazed terracotta or very porous tiles.

Retiling your kitchen backsplash brings a fresh new look, but requires weighing costs, preparation, and planning. With this guide’s insights into material costs, labor, tile types, DIY tips, and other key considerations, you can budget wisely and get the stunning backsplash style you desire.

Conclusion

Updating your kitchen backsplash can modernize the heart of your home and provide a great return on investment. With an understanding of the key cost factors covered here, you can determine a realistic budget and get the backsplash design you want. From affordable ceramic to luxurious stone, the possibilities are endless.

Be sure to accurately measure your backsplash area and get quotes from experienced tilers before starting. While DIY backsplash installation is achievable, larger or intricate projects often benefit from hiring a pro. With careful planning, quality materials, and proper technique, your new backsplash will provide beauty and function for years of cooking and entertaining.

Investing in backsplash retiling brings visual appeal to your space and can increase home value down the road. For many homeowners, the end results are well worth the initial project costs. Achieving your dream kitchen is priceless.

How Much Does It Cost to Retile a Kitchen Backsplash?