Adding a backsplash to your kitchen or bathroom can instantly transform the look and feel of the space. But sometimes an existing backsplash just doesn’t fit your taste or style anymore. Covering up a backsplash is an affordable alternative to a full tear out and replacement. With some planning and effort, you can cover a backsplash in a variety of ways to give your space a fresh new look.

Assess the Existing Backsplash

The first step is to take a close look at your current backsplash. Consider the following:

Material: Is your backsplash made of ceramic tile, glass, marble, metal or something else? The material will impact how easily you can cover it.
Condition: Is the existing backsplash in generally good shape? Cracked or missing tiles or grout will need repairs before covering.
Layout: Is the backsplash a straight line or does it have borders, patterns or designs? This will determine how easy it will be to cover evenly.
Size: Measure the height and length of the backsplash. This will tell you how much material you need to purchase to cover it.
Moisture exposure: Backsplashes in kitchens or behind sinks will need moisture-resistant coverings.

Once you’ve assessed your current backsplash, you can determine the best way to cover it based on your budget, the time you want to invest and the look you hope to achieve.

Clean and Prepare the Backsplash Surface

Before installing a backsplash cover, you need to make sure the surface underneath is properly prepped:

Clean the entire backsplash thoroughly to remove any grease, soap scum or other residues. An all-purpose cleaner or degreaser works well.
Wash off any cleaner and let the surface fully dry.
Scrape or sand off any loose paint, caulk or grout. Fill any cracks or holes with caulk or patching compound so the covering materials have a smooth surface to adhere to.
Lightly sand glossy tile or marble to rough up the surface and allow the adhesive to bind better.
Remove any accessories, switches, receptacles or plumbing fixtures that will get in the way of covering the entire backsplash surface.

Proper prep is important for good adhesion and a professional finished look when installing any backsplash cover.

Choose Your Covering Material

There are several options available to cover an existing backsplash:

Tile

Tile is the most permanent option, but also the most labor intensive. On the plus side, you can mimic the look of the original backsplash or install a completely new style. Tile holds up well to moisture and requires minimal care other than re-grouting periodically. The biggest downsides are the installation cost and the challenge of laying tile evenly over an existing backsplash.

Metal

Metal backsplash panels like tin, stainless steel, copper or aluminum are durable, moisture-resistant and easy to install. This gives a sleek, contemporary look. Prefabricated panels can be mounted right over the old backsplash with adhesive. Metal is great for a commercial style kitchen or bathroom. It may require sealing or polishing periodically to keep your desired finish.

Wood

Wood adds warmth and texture. Thin boards or panels make installation straightforward. Choose a durable wood like teak or bamboo that can resist moisture. Frequent sealing is needed to prevent warping or water damage behind a sink or stove. Wood must be protected from direct contact with heat sources to prevent cracking or discoloration.

Stone

Natural stone slabs or veneers like marble, granite or slate provide an elegant upgrade over an existing backsplash. Thinner sliced veneers are lightweight and easy to mount. Heavier natural stone is more difficult to install without complete demo of the old backsplash. Stone is moisture-resistant but porous types will need periodic sealing.

Vinyl/Wallpaper

For a quick, affordable backsplash refresh, vinyl tile stickers or removable wallpaper offer lots of options. These peel-and-stick materials go up easily, camouflaging the old backsplash. Many patterns are available to suit any kitchen or bath decor. The downside is these coverings are not highly durable or water resistant. Over time, edges may lift or moisture seep under. But vinyl and wallpaper are great temporary solutions if you’re not quite ready for a full backsplash replacement.

Prep and Install Your New Backsplash Cover

Once you’ve selected the ideal backsplash covering material for your space, use the following tips to prep and install it correctly:

Ensure Proper Adhesion

Thoroughly clean the backsplash surface and make any repairs for the best adhesion.
Apply painter’s tape along the edges and any adjacent surfaces to prevent adhesive getting where it’s not wanted.
Choose the appropriate adhesive and trowel or applicator for your specific covering material and the backsplash surface it will adhere to.

Cut Pieces to Size

Measure carefully and cut panels, boards, tiles or vinyl to fit your backsplash layout.
For solid panels like wood or metal, cut openings where needed for outlets, switches or fixtures.
Cut tiles or vinyl to fit around these openings as well, dry fitting pieces before final application.

Mount Your New Backsplash Cover Evenly

Start installation along the lowest edge and work upwards using spacers to maintain even grout lines if installing tile.
Take care to apply pressure and firmly adhere all edges and seams as you work to avoid lifting or curling.
With panels, start at one end and level as you adhere each one across for uniform appearance.
Remove painter’s tape immediately after application.

With good prep and careful installation, your new backsplash cover will refresh the look of your kitchen or bath. Take proper care based on the material you chose and you’ll enjoy a revamped space!

Frequently Asked Questions About Covering a Backsplash

Should I remove the old backsplash before installing a cover?

In most cases, it is not necessary to remove the original backsplash before covering it. As long as the old backsplash is in good condition, with no cracking, chipping or missing grout, you can install tile, panels or vinyl right over it. This saves considerable time and mess.

What’s the best way to attach a new backsplash cover?

Thorough surface cleaning followed by application of the manufacturer’s recommended adhesive is key for proper bonding. Many backsplash covers have a self-adhesive backing, but additional construction adhesive ensures a long-lasting installation.

How do I cut holes for outlets in a backsplash cover?

Carefully measure and mark the exact location on your new backsplash material. Use the appropriate cutting tool, like a jigsaw for wood or tile nippers for tile or stone, to neatly cut openings where needed. For holes smaller than the cutting tool, drill multiple holes and knock out the remaining material.

Can I install a new backsplash tile over existing tile?

Yes, tile can be installed over an existing backsplash tile surface. Be sure to thoroughly clean and roughen the old tile first. Use a quality polymer-modified thinset mortar when setting the new tile. This method is more labor intensive than panels or vinyl but allows you to create any new tile design.

What’s the most water-resistant material to cover a kitchen backsplash?

Natural stone like granite or marble are very water-resistant options for heavy moisture areas near a sink. Stainless steel is also highly water-resistant and easy to keep clean. Ceramic and porcelain tile resist moisture well when properly sealed and grouted. Any seams or edges should be caulked to prevent water intrusion.

How do I finish edges of a backsplash cover panel?

Wood or metal backsplash panels often have unfinished edges. Apply thin wood trim or U-channel metal along the sides for a clean finish. You can also caulk edges with a coordinating colored caulk that matches your panel finish.

Covering up an outdated, damaged or unattractive backsplash is an affordable and often simple upgrade. With the right preparations, materials and installation techniques, you can transform the look of your kitchen or bath without the time or expense of a full backsplash replacement. Consider your options and budget to pick the best backsplash cover solution for your needs. With some skill and effort, you can install a backsplash cover that completely refreshes your space.

Conclusion

Covering an existing backsplash offers a simple and budget-friendly way to update the look of any kitchen or bathroom. After assessing your current backsplash and making any needed repairs, choose from various covering materials like tile, metal, wood, stone, vinyl or wallpaper based on your budget, skill level and style preferences. With proper surface prep, the right adhesive and careful installation, you can install a new backsplash cover right over the existing one, whether it’s tired tile, outdated vinyl or a backsplash design you’re just no longer fond of. Take steps to ensure good adhesion and proper sealing for the material you select. Then apply your fresh new backsplash cover to instantly give your space an affordable makeover.

How to Cover a Backsplash