Installing a kitchen backsplash is an easy way to add visual interest and protect your walls from splashes and spills in a high-traffic area. With some preparation and the right materials, you can achieve a beautiful, professional-looking backsplash on your drywall. Here is a step-by-step guide to installing kitchen backsplash tile on drywall.
Choose Your Backsplash Tile
The first step is selecting your backsplash tile. There are endless options when it comes to backsplash tile materials, sizes, colors and patterns.
Common backsplash tile materials:
- Ceramic
- Porcelain
- Glass
- Metal
- Stone (marble, granite, slate)
- Mosaic tiles
Consider the look you want to achieve and your budget. Mosaic tiles and natural stone tend to be more expensive than ceramic or porcelain. Keep in mind maintenance too – glass and metal will need to be cleaned more gently than glazed ceramic.
Decide on the tile size and pattern. Small mosaic tiles can create a busy look, while larger tiles like 4×4 inch subway tile lend a more seamless appearance. Contrasting grout lines will make the pattern more prominent. Choose grout color to complement or match the tiles.
Buy 15-20% extra tile to account for cuts, waste and breakage.
Gather Your Materials
You will need:
- Backsplash tiles
- Tile adhesive (thinset mortar)
- Grout
- Notched trowel
- Grout float
- Spacers
- Grout sealer
- Tile cutter (if needed)
- Bucket for mixing thinset
- Grout sponge
- Tape measure
- Level
- Utility knife
- Carpenter’s square
- Safety gear – gloves, goggles, mask
Optional:
- Backer board (if not installing directly onto drywall)
- Paintable silicone caulk
- Wet saw for intricate tile cuts
Make sure to use white thinset adhesive designed for wall applications. Choose an appropriate grout width for your tile size, typically 1/8 inch or 1/16 inch. Have spacers on hand to leave consistent grout lines.
Prepare the Surface
Proper prep is crucial for a long-lasting installation.
- Remove existing backsplash if there is one. Scrape off any leftover adhesive.
- Fill any holes or imperfections in the drywall with drywall compound. Let dry and sand smooth.
- Clean the surface thoroughly to remove grease, dirt and dust.
Consider applying a primer to the painted drywall to improve adhesion. Allow primer to dry fully before tiling.
Use painters tape to mask off the countertop edges and corners. This helps keep the counters clean and creates straight edge lines.
Tip: If your wall has uneven spots, you can install cement backer board to create a more level surface for tiling. screw it securely to studs.
Plan Your Layout
- Measure the area and sketch out your pattern.
- Mark the center point of the backsplash area.
- Do a dry layout with tiles to test the pattern and spacing.
- Adjust to have a roughly equal width of cut tiles at the edges.
- Snap chalk lines on the wall as guides for your first row.
Tip: Avoid placing narrow cut tiles at the outer corners. Plan to have the small pieces in the middle instead.
Spread the Thinset Mortar
- Mix the thinset adhesive per package directions with water in a bucket. Let it slake for 10 minutes.
- Use the notched trowel to spread a thin, even layer of mortar on just one section at a time.
- Hold the trowel at a 45 degree angle to get the proper depth.
- Only spread as much as can be tiled in about 15 minutes before the thinset dries.
Pro Tip: To check thickness, place a tile in the mortar then lift. There should be at least 85% contact on the back of the tile.
Set the Tiles
- Place the corner tile first. Use spacers to leave an even grout line.
- Set each tile firmly into the thinset, using a slight twisting motion to ensure good contact.
- Check tiles are level and aligned with the chalk lines as you go.
- Use tile leveling clips if needed to keep tiles even across the installation.
- Let the thinset mortar dry for at least 24 hours before grouting.
Tip: Be extra careful handling glass or mosaic sheets. Don’t allow the tiles to slide down the wall.
Cut Tiles (if needed)
- Measure and mark tiles to fit around outlets, corners or edges.
- For straight cuts, use a manual tile cutter. Score the tile then snap it.
- Use a wet saw with a diamond blade for intricate curved cuts.
- File the cut edges smooth with a stone.
- Dry fit cut tiles before setting them into the thinset.
Grout the Tile
Once the thinset has cured fully, it’s time to grout.
- Mix the grout per package directions with water in a bucket.
Let sit for 10 minutes then remix before applying. - Use a grout float or rubber grout squeegee to spread grout over the tile surface, pressing into joints.
- Hold the float at a 45 degree angle and scrape diagonally across tiles to remove excess.
- Clean tiles with a damp sponge, rinsing often. Wipe diagonally across tiles.
- Allow grout to dry for 72 hours, then apply grout sealer if desired.
Pro Tip: Buff off a light haze from the tile surface with a soft cloth once the grout has dried to reveal the underlying shine.
Finish the Edges
Apply caulk along the countertop edge and perimeter walls for a clean finish.
- Remove the painters tape after grouting.
- Clean the edges thoroughly.
- Apply a thin bead of silicone caulk and smooth with a wet finger.
- Allow to dry fully before exposing to water.
And that’s it – stand back and admire your stunning new backsplash! With proper prep and care, it will provide many years of beauty and protection for your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Kitchen Backsplash on Drywall
Getting ready to install a backsplash in your kitchen? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Should I use backer board or install tile directly on drywall?
For walls in good condition, tile can be installed directly onto drywall in most cases. Backer board (cement board) provides a more moisture-resistant surface and can level out uneven walls. But for a simple DIY kitchen backsplash, drywall typically works fine.
What kind of thinset mortar should I use?
Use white, polymer-modified thinset adhesive specially formulated for wall applications. Do not use multi-purpose thinset or products for flooring. The thinset bag or box will be marked for use with wall tile.
How do I get thinset mortar consistency right?
Mix thinset powder with water per manufacturer instructions, generally starting with less water for a thicker mixture. Allow to slake or sit 5-10 minutes then remix, adding more water if needed to get a peanut butter like consistency. Mortar that is too runny will not hold tiles properly.
Can I use regular grout for kitchen backsplash?
Regular sanded grout is fine for backsplashes with tile larger than 4 inches. But for tile under 4 inches, it’s best to use unsanded grout. The finer particles of unsanded grout can fill the narrower joints properly. Premixed epoxy grout is also a good option.
How long does thinset and grout need to dry?
Allow thinset adhesive to fully cure for at least 24 hours before grouting tiles. Then give grout a full 72 hours to dry and cure before sealing or exposing to water. This ensures a proper bond and seal.
How do I cut tiles for outlets or edges?
Use a manual tile cutter for straight cuts. For outlet cutouts and irregular shapes, use a wet saw with a diamond tile blade. A rotary tool can also be used for small notches. Smooth sharp edges with a rubbing stone.
Can I use kitchen backsplash tile in a bathroom?
Porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone tiles rated for floor installation can work for bathroom walls too. But avoid using actual “kitchen backsplash” tile with a coated finish, as moisture can deteriorate the coating over time.
How do I clean and maintain the backsplash?
Ceramic and porcelain can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. For grout, use a specialized tile and grout cleaner. Seal grout periodically to prevent staining. Take care with delicate tiles like glass or mosaic – avoid abrasive cleaners.
Conclusion
Installing a kitchen backsplash tile on drywall is an achievable DIY project with the right guidance. Careful planning, precision cuts, proper adhesive and grout use, and sealants along the edges will lead to a backsplash you can enjoy for many years. Take time to select a tile style and aesthetic that complements your kitchen’s look and purpose. With some elbow grease and these tips, you can gain a stunning focal point and protect your cooking space.