Installing a beautiful backsplash is one of the best ways to add personality and visual interest to your kitchen. However, finishing the end of the backsplash where it meets counter tops or walls can be a tricky task. With some planning and the right techniques, you can achieve a seamless, professional look.
Prepare the Work Area
Before starting any end finishing work, make sure to clean and prepare the area properly:
- Remove any old caulk or debris from the edges with a utility knife. Wipe the edges down with rubbing alcohol to remove grease and oils.
- Protect countertops and floors with drop cloths. Use painter’s tape to mask off edges if needed.
- Have all materials and tools on hand – caulk gun, caulk, wet rag, etc.
Proper prep work will ensure the finished edges look neat and tidy.
Finish Against a Wall
If the backsplash ends against a wall:
- Apply painter’s tape to the wall about 1/16″ from the edge. This will help create a straight finish line.
- Run a bead of silicone caulk along the gap between the backsplash and wall. Use a caulk that matches the color of the grout.
- Use a wet finger or rag to smooth and shape the caulk into a neat line. Remove the tape before the caulk dries.
- For a clean finish, carefully razor any excess dried caulk off the tiles.
Finish Against Countertops
Finishing the edges where backsplash meets countertops requires a few extra steps:
- Make sure countertops are free of grease, dirt and sealers which can prevent caulk from adhering.
- Tape off the underside edge of the countertops. This prevents getting caulk on the countertop surface.
- Run a smooth, consistent bead of caulk along the seam.
- Use a wet rag or finger to shape and smooth the caulk. Make sure there are no gaps.
- Carefully remove the tape before the caulk dries. Wipe any excess caulk from the countertop.
- Allow caulk to fully cure for 24-48 hours before exposing to water.
Use Sealant or Grout
For natural stone backsplashes, use a color-matched sealant rather than caulk. This allows the stone to naturally expand and contract.
For grouted backsplashes, match the grout color when finishing edges. This creates a seamless transition.
Finish Inside Corners
- For inside corners, apply painter’s tape 1/16” from the corner edge on both walls.
- Run a steady bead of caulk down the inside corner gap.
- Use a wet finger to shape and smooth the caulk down into a point.
- Remove the tape carefully before caulk dries. Clean up any excess.
The tapered caulk line will finish inside corners nicely.
Finish Outside Corners
For outside corners:
- Place strips of tape on both walls just wider than the backsplash.
- Fill the gap with caulk and use a wet tool to shape a curved line.
- Remove the tape. Clean excess caulk off the tiles/walls.
The rounded caulk line prevents cracking on the vulnerable corner edges.
Seal Around Fixtures
Any spots where backsplashes meet sinks, faucets, soap dispensers, etc will need waterproof caulking:
- Clean and dry the surface around the fixture.
- Apply caulk around the fixture, smoothing with a wet finger.
- Make sure there are no gaps where water could seep through.
- Allow to fully cure before use.
Proper sealing prevents moisture damage.
Tool Tips
Having the right tools makes finishing the edges much easier:
- Use high quality silicone or latex caulk made for kitchens. Avoid cheap caulk which can crack or fall out.
- A smooth caulk bead is easier to work with than one with uneven thickness.
- Tool the caulk with a wet finger or old rag. Dry tools will catch and drag the caulk.
- Have rubbing alcohol and razor blades on hand to clean up mistakes.
Hiring a Professional
Ending a backsplash is a detail-oriented process. For homeowners uncomfortable with caulking, consider hiring a professional tile installer to finish edges with expert precision. Though hiring out adds cost, it may be worth it to achieve flawless finished edges that last.
With careful prep work, the right materials, and proper technique, you can achieve beautiful finished edges where your new backsplash meets countertops, walls, and fixtures. Taking the time to finish the edges properly will take your kitchen tile design from good to great!
Frequently Asked Questions About Finishing Backsplash Edges
What is the best caulk to use when finishing a backsplash?
For kitchen backsplashes, look for a silicone caulk that is mold/mildew resistant. White or clear silicone will match most grout colors. Make sure to use a caulk designed for kitchen and bath.
How long does caulk need to dry before getting wet?
Caulk fully cures in 24-48 hours typically. Avoid letting water come in contact with fresh caulk during that time. Exposure to water prematurely can cause caulk failure.
Should I caulk backsplash to wall or leave an expansion gap?
It’s best to caulk the seam between backsplash and wall. The caulk allows for subtle expansion and prevents water intrusion into the gap. Leave 1/16″ gap between caulk and tiles.
What’s the best way to get a straight caulk line when finishing a backsplash?
Using painter’s tape just wider than the gap helps create a crisp finishing line. Run caulk along the tape, tool smooth, then carefully remove the tape. This prevents wandering lines.
Should I caulk where my backsplash meets the countertop?
Definitely caulk along the counter-backsplash seam. Water can seep into this gap otherwise. Tape off the counter edge to prevent caulk smears.
How do I fix cracks in caulk along my backsplash edges?
Carefully cut out the old cracked caulk with a utility knife. Clean the area completely and let dry fully. Apply fresh caulk in the gap, then tool smooth.
How do I get a clean line when caulking inside corners?
Apply painter’s tape on both walls just wider than the corner gap. Run a steady bead of caulk down the corner then use a wet finger to shape and taper the caulk to a point.
Can I finish backsplash edges with grout instead of caulk?
For grouted backsplashes, you can use matching sanded grout for the edges as long as the joints are wider than 1/8”. Use caulk for gaps less than 1/8”.
Conclusion
Finishing backsplash edges can elevate your tile work from DIY to pro-level. With meticulous surface prep, the right adhesive caulk for the material, precision taping techniques, and proper smoothing tools, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting results. Take the time to properly seal edges, inside corners, outside corners, and fixtures for a watertight, seamless finish. Your gorgeous new backsplash will handle daily wear and tear thanks to edges finished with care and craftsmanship.