Installing a subway tile backsplash can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom by adding a classic, timeless touch. While subway tiles are relatively easy for a DIYer to install, careful planning and preparation are needed to achieve professional-looking results. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of installing a subway tile backsplash.
Choose Your Tile
The first step is to select the subway tiles you’ll be installing. Here are some things to consider:
- Tile material – Subway tiles come in ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone. Ceramic and porcelain are the most common. Porcelain is less prone to moisture absorption and chipping.
- Tile size – The standard subway tile size is 3×6 inches, but they also come in 4×8 inches and other sizes. Smaller tiles allow for better grout line alignment.
- Tile color – White is the most popular, but subway tiles come in almost any color imaginable. Choosing a colored grout can create a striking look.
- Tile finish – Options include gloss, matte, textured, crackled, and more. Matte is ideal for a classic look.
- Accent tiles – Consider using accent tiles on the edges or as bands of color. This adds interest.
Once you decide on the tile, order 15-20% extra to account for breakage, cuts, and future repairs.
Calculate How Much Tile You Need
To determine how much tile you need, measure the area to be tiled. Here’s how:
- Measure the height and width of the backsplash area and multiply them to get the square footage.
- For areas with interruptions like outlets and windows, take separate height and width measurements and add them together.
- Add all the square footages together.
- Finally, multiply the total square footage by 1.15 to account for tile cuts and waste.
This will tell you how many square feet of tile you need. Divide by the square footage of each tile to get the tile quantity.
Having extra tiles left over is better than running short mid-project. Buy a few extras.
Gather Your Materials
Installing subway tile requires specific tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tools
- Tile cutter
- Tile spacers
- Tile leveling system (for large formats)
- Notched trowel
- Grout float
- Mixing bucket
- Rubber grout float
- Sponges
Materials
- Subway tiles
- Tile adhesive (thinset mortar)
- Grout
- Grout sealer
- Caulk
- Backerboard (if needed)
Prepare the Surface
Subway tiles should be installed on a clean, smooth surface for proper adhesion. Here’s how to prepare:
- Remove any old backsplash and thoroughly clean the area. Scrape off old adhesive.
- Ensure the surface is smooth. Sand down any bumps in drywall.
- Paint the surface with primer to improve adhesion.
- Apply waterproofing if needed. Use a membrane around sinks or other wet areas.
- Install cement backerboard if the surface is plaster or drywall. This provides stability.
Prepping the surface takes time but is vital for long-lasting results.
Lay Out Your Tiles
Before applying any adhesive, do a dry layout to map out your pattern:
- Start in the center and work outward toward the edges.
- Use tile spacers to lay tiles with even grout line spacing.
- Cut edge tiles to fit around outlets, windows, and ends of walls.
- Play with accent tiles and patterns until you’re happy with the design.
The dry layout will reveal any issues and prevent surprises once tiles are fixed in place. Mark the measurements to replicate later.
Apply the Tile Adhesive
With your dry layout done, it’s time to start tiling:
- Apply a layer of thinset adhesive to the wall using a notched trowel. Apply only as much as you can tile over before it dries.
- Use the trowel notches to create ridges for the tile to adhere to.
- Tip: For large format tiles like 4×8 inches, use a back-buttering method. Spread thinset on the back of each tile too.
- Work in small sections, keeping a wet edge to prevent drying.
Take care to apply an even layer that fully coats the surface. This prevents gaps behind tiles.
Install the Tiles
Once adhesive is spread, the installation begins:
- Following your layout, place your pre-cut edge and corner tiles first. Press each tile firmly into the thinset.
- Place spacers around each tile to maintain even grout line spacing.
- Use a leveling system for large format tiles to keep them flat.
- Continue working in sections, keeping tiles aligned and properly spaced. Check for levelness as you go.
- Cut and place any outlet and fixture cutouts carefully for clean lines.
Work methodically to keep everything even and level. Immediately wipe away any thinset or grout haze.
Apply the Grout
Once all whole tiles are placed, it’s time to grout:
- Let the tile adhesive cure fully first, generally 24 hours. Test a tile to ensure it doesn’t shift.
- Mix a batch of grout just before use. Apply to joints with a grout float, pressing firmly into gaps.
- Drag the float diagonally across tiles to remove excess. Clean as you go along.
- Once dry, polish with a soft cloth to reveal a clean, finished look.
- Seal grout once fully cured to protect from moisture and stains.
Take care to fully pack joints and clean excess grout before it dries. Well-grouted tiles stay securely in place.
Finish the Edges
The finishing touches complete your new backsplash:
- Where the tile ends, seal the edge with silicone caulk for a watertight seal.
- Use caulk where tile meets countertops, sinks, or other surfaces.
- If needed, trim tiles along edges with an angle grinder for a precision fit.
- Finally, wipe away all dust and set your new backsplash tiles with a clean, damp microfiber cloth.
Take your time with precision finishing cuts and seals for a polished, professional edge.
Tips for Success
Follow these tips for achieving flawless results with your subway tile backsplash:
- Carefully level and prepare the surface for proper thinset adhesion.
- Map out details like outlets and edges with a dry layout first.
- Use tile spacers for perfectly spaced grout lines. Remove once grouted.
- Work in small sections to keep thinset and grout from drying too quickly.
- Clean haze and spills immediately to prevent staining the tiles.
- Seal grout and caulk edges for water resistance and durability.
- Take your time – don’t rush the steps. Careful tile work shows.
Patience and precision will pay off with a stunning, professionally installed subway tile backsplash.
Common Questions about Installing Subway Tile Backsplash
Many DIYers have questions when installing subway tile backsplash for the first time. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does it take to install a subway tile backsplash?
For an average sized kitchen backsplash of around 40 square feet, it typically takes 2-3 days from start to finish. The most time-intensive parts are preparing the surface and carefully applying the tiles. Work can be split up over several sessions.
What thickness of tile should I use?
The standard thickness for subway tile is 1/4 inch. This thickness provides durability while still keeping tiles relatively lightweight for application on walls vs floors. Thinner tiles may be more prone to breakage.
Should I use matte or gloss tiles?
This depends on the look you prefer. Matte tiles provide a classic subway tile appearance, while gloss tiles give a more reflective, shiny finish. Gloss tiles also enhance the grout color.
How are subway tiles cut?
The easiest method is using a manual tile cutter to score and snap tiles. A wet saw can be used for more accuracy. Tile nippers are also handy for small corner notches and edge trimming.
What type of tile backer board is best?
Cement backerboard like Durock or HardieBacker is preferred for wall tile. It provides a water-resistant, stable substrate. Avoid drywall alone which can deteriorate from moisture.
How soon can I grout after applying tile adhesive?
It’s important to allow the thinset adhesive to cure fully, which usually takes 24 – 48 hours. Test tiles periodically – they shouldn’t shift when lightly pushed. Grout too soon and tiles may loosen over time.
Conclusion
Installing a subway tile backsplash brings a timeless, classic look to your kitchen or bath. While the process involves careful planning and patience, the eye-catching results are well worth the effort for DIYers. Preparing your space properly, using the right tools and techniques, and applying tiles meticulously will ensure your new backsplash looks professional and lasts for many years.