A tile backsplash can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen. Not only does it serve as a protective barrier between your countertop and wall from water and stains, but it also allows you to add visual interest and personality to your cooking space. Installing a tile backsplash may seem daunting, but it can actually be a fairly straightforward DIY project if you take the proper steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do a tile backsplash in your kitchen.
Choose Your Tile
The first step in installing a tile backsplash is selecting your tile. There are endless options when it comes to backsplash tiles – from natural stone and ceramic to glass and metal. Consider the following when making your choice:
Material
- Ceramic or Porcelain – Budget-friendly option that comes in a variety of styles and finishes. Durable and water-resistant.
- Natural Stone – Beautiful but more expensive option like marble, travertine, granite, and slate. Requires sealing.
- Glass – Eye-catching and modern. Available in many colors but not very durable or heat-resistant.
- Metal – Great contemporary option like stainless steel, copper, and tin. Durable but expensive.
Size
- Small tiles like mosaics create a busier look
- Large tiles create a cleaner, more seamless appearance
- Mixing tile sizes can add interest
Color/Finish
- Match existing countertops and cabinets or contrast them
- Glossy, matte, or textured finishes impact visual appeal
- Neutrals are classic; bold colors make a statement
Price
- Ceramic and porcelain tiles tend to be the most budget-friendly
- Natural stone, metal, and glass tiles are typically more expensive
- Some specialty tiles can be pricy
Test Samples
- Order tile samples to view colors and finishes in your space before fully committing
Calculate How Much Tile You Need
Once you’ve selected your tile, it’s important to calculate exactly how much you’ll need to purchase. Measure the backsplash area, multiplying the height times the width. For the height, measure from the countertop to the bottom of the upper cabinets. For the width, measure the linear feet of the backsplash area.
Then, add 10-15% more onto your total tile estimate to account for tile cuts, waste, and future repairs. It’s always better to have leftover tile than to run out halfway through your project.
You’ll also need to purchase tile-specific supplies like thinset and grout. Verify recommended product specs with your tile supplier.
Prepare the Surface
Prepping the backsplash area is crucial for proper tile adhesion. Follow these steps:
- Clean thoroughly – Remove all grease, dirt, and debris from the backsplash area using a degreasing cleaner and rinse well. Let dry fully.
- Remove old backsplash – If there is an existing backsplash, carefully remove it using a putty knife or chisel. Scrape off all leftover tile adhesive.
- Sand and fill – Sand any rough areas on the wall smooth. Fill any holes or gaps with spackle and let dry completely.
- Prime – Apply a tile primer to the backsplash area and let dry. This creates a bonding layer for the thinset to adhere to.
Proper prep prevents tiles from loosening over time. Don’t skip this important step!
Install Backerboard
Typically, you’ll need to install cement backerboard as a base before tiling a backsplash. Backerboard is made from cement and fiberglass to provide an even, water-resistant surface for tile adhesion.
Here’s how to install it:
Step 1: Cut Backerboard Pieces
Use a utility knife to cut the backerboard to fit your backsplash area. Wear goggles and a dust mask. Leave a small gap between board pieces (about 1/8 inch).
Step 2: Apply Thinset
Spread a layer of thinset mortar on the wall using a notched trowel. Thinset provides adhesion for the backerboard.
Step 3: Press Backerboard Against Thinset
Firmly press backerboard pieces flush against the thinset. Use drywall screws every 8 inches across the boards to firmly secure them.
Step 4: Tape Seams
Once screwed in place, cover seams between backerboard pieces with fiberglass mesh tape. Apply thinset over the tape with a putty knife. This seals the seams.
Let the thinset fully cure for 24-48 hours before tiling.
Lay Out Your Tile Pattern
Now comes the fun part – deciding on your tile layout! Think about the overall look you want to achieve. Some popular options include:
- Brick pattern – Tiles offset by half a tile width for each alternating row
- Pinwheel pattern – Tiles are set in a square pattern rotating around a center tile
- Subway pattern – Tiles aligned in horizontal rows, brick-style
- Herringbone – Tiles form “v” shapes for a zigzag effect
- Diamond pattern – Tiles are set diagonally in diamond shapes
Mixing multiple patterns can make a bold statement. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Use painter’s tape to map out your desired tile pattern on the backerboard as a guide.
Mix Thinset Mortar
Mix thinset mortar according to package directions in a bucket. Use an electric drill with a mixing paddle to thoroughly combine and avoid clumps. Thinset provides a strong adhesive bond between your tiles and the backerboard.
Only mix up as much thinset as you can use in 30 minutes. It will dry quickly. Having extra buckets of water and thinset powder on hand lets you easily mix up more as needed.
Apply Thinset and Set Tiles
Now the real tiling work begins! Follow these steps:
- Use the flat side of a trowel to apply a thin layer of thinset to the backsplash area, spreading evenly.
- Use the notched side of the trowel to comb lines into the thinset for optimal adhesion.
- Press tiles firmly into place in your desired pattern according to your guides.
- Push the tiles back and forth across the thinset lines to ensure full coverage underneath.
- Use tile spacers between tiles to maintain even grout lines.
- Be sure tiles are aligned and level as you place them. Adjust as needed.
- Clean excess thinset from tile faces with a damp sponge as you go to prevent drying.
Take your time placing tiles accurately – removal later is difficult! Allow the thinset to cure fully (24-48 hours) before grouting.
Cut Tile Pieces to Fit
Around countertops, outlets, cabinets, and other areas, you’ll need to cut tile pieces to fit. Here are some tips:
- For straight cuts, use a manual tile cutter with a carbide scoring wheel. Score the tile and snap the piece off.
- For L-shaped, circular, or irregular cuts, use a compact tile wet saw. Mark the shape with painter’s tape first.
- For simple rounded edge cuts, use tile nippers. Nip off small bits of tile to get the desired shape.
- For clean cuts in porcelain, use an angle grinder with a diamond tile blade. Wear eye and ear protection.
Save all tile cutting scraps – you can use them later for filler pieces. Apply thinset to the cut edges when setting the tiles.
Grout Your New Backsplash
Once your tile thinset is fully cured, it’s time to grout your new backsplash to seal the joints between tiles and give a finished look. Follow these grouting tips:
1. Mix Grout
Prepare grout by mixing powdered grout with water in a bucket based on package directions. Let the mixed grout slake for 10 minutes then remix before using.
2. Apply Grout
Use a rubber grout float or squeegee to spread grout forcefully into tile joints. Push at an angle and pack the joints fully.
3. Wipe Away Excess Grout
Let grout sit for a few minutes until slightly hardened. Then use a damp sponge to gently wipe off the hazed grout from the tile surface. Rinse sponge frequently.
4. Polish Grout Lines
Once grout is fully dried, polish the lines with a soft cloth to remove any remaining haze. Use a minimally damp sponge for stubborn areas. Avoid fully wetting grouted areas.
5. Seal Grout
Apply a penetrating grout sealer to protect from stains and moisture. Follow product directions. Reapply yearly.
Take care not to leave any grout residue. Well-grouted tiles are protected and have clean finished lines.
Add Finishing Touches
Once grouted and sealed, your new backsplash is complete! Here are some optional final touches:
- Use caulk along the edges and corners where the tiles meet countertops, cabinets, or walls. This seals any gaps or cracks.
- Consider applying a natural stone sealer to porous tile types like travertine, marble, or granite. This prevents staining and etching.
- Install any needed backsplash decor items like an outlet cover, functional hooks, or a statement light fixture.
- Accent the backsplash with art, plants, pans, utensils or dishes. The options are limitless!
Stand back and admire your handiwork. Your new tile backsplash adds function, beauty, and value to your kitchen.
FAQ
What tools do I need to install a tile backsplash?
Common tools needed are a tape measure, level, pencil, tile cutter, tile nippers, mixing bucket, notched trowel, grout float, sponges, tile spacers, caulk gun, and various cutting tools like an angle grinder or wet saw depending on your tile type. Safety gear like dust masks, ear protection, and goggles is also recommended.
How do I remove an old backsplash?
Carefully pry off tiles with a putty knife or chisel. Tap gently with a hammer if needed. Scrape off all old tile adhesive, then sand and clean the wall fully. Use a degreaser and rinse thoroughly before installing the new backsplash.
Can I install backsplash tile directly over drywall or plaster?
It is not recommended. Cement backerboard should be installed first to provide a water-resistant, stable surface for tile adhesion. Thinset sticks much better to backerboard than drywall.
How long does thinset need to dry before grouting tiles?
Check thinset packaging, as dry times vary by brand. In general, allow 24-48 hours for thinset mortar to fully cure before applying grout. This allows time for the adhesive to set firmly.
Why do some tiles get haze or dull spots after grouting?
If grout residue is left to dry on the tile surface, it can leave a haze or film. Wipe tiles down thoroughly during grouting and polish with a soft cloth once dry. Re-wetting grouted areas can also cause dull spots from minerals in water.
How do I cut small pieces of tile for filler around edges?
Save tile scraps from cutting to use for small filler pieces needed around corners, edges, and outlets. Use a wet saw, nippers, or grinder to modify tile edges as needed to fit. Like full tiles, adhere fillers with thinset mortar.
Conclusion
Installing a beautiful, durable tile backsplash is an achievable DIY project for any homeowner with proper preparation, materials, and tile-setting techniques. Carefully following the steps of prepping, tiling, grouting, and sealing results in a backsplash you’ll love showing off for years to come.
While the process involves some intricate steps, don’t let tile backsplash installation seem too intimidating. Take your time, do your prep work, and focus on small sections one at a time. Soon you’ll have a professional-looking, customized backsplash that makes your kitchen shine. Enjoy putting your personal stamp on your home with a tile backsplash you can install with confidence.