How to Install Stone Backsplash - Backsplash Kitchen

Installing a stone backsplash can add natural beauty and elegance to any kitchen or bathroom. With proper planning and preparation, you can have a stunning stone backsplash installed in your home. This guide will walk you through all the steps for a successful DIY stone backsplash installation.

Choose the Right Stone Material

The first step is selecting the right type of stone. Natural stone comes in many varieties, each with their own characteristics. Consider factors like:

Appearance – Select a stone that matches your design style. Options like marble, travertine, slate, and granite come in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Porosity – More porous, etched stones like limestone require extra sealing to resist stains. Less porous options like quartzite are lower maintenance.
Durability – Harder stones like granite are extremely durable for heavy use areas. Softer stones like marble can etch or scratch more easily.
Cost – Prices range dramatically depending on the material. Determine how much you want to invest.
Weight – Thicker stone tiles get very heavy. Make sure your wall framing can support the weight.

For a kitchen backsplash, granite, marble, or ceramic tiles are popular choices. In bathrooms, marble, travertine, and slate often get used. Select the stone that best fits your needs.

Calculate How Much Stone You Need

Once you’ve chosen a stone, determine how much you need to purchase. Measure the total square footage of the area getting tiled. Don’t forget to account for irregular spaces and corners.

It’s always best to overestimate slightly. Having 10-15% extra allows for errors and waste. For 12″x12″ stone tiles, you need about 10 tiles per square foot. Use this to estimate the total number of tiles needed. Don’t forget to include grout and sealant in your material costs.

Purchase all materials from the same lot number for a consistent look. Store stone tiles safely flat until ready to install.

Gather the Right Tools

Installing stone tile requires some specific tools:

Wet saw – Cuts stone tiles precisely. A diamond blade is essential.
Notched trowel – Spreads tile adhesive onto the wall. Look for a 1/4″ x 3/8″ notch.
Grout float – Helps press grout into tile joints. Use a soft rubber one.
Spacers – Keeps an even space between tiles as they set.
Level – Check walls for plumb and tiles for level.
Tape measure – Measure cuts and layout spacing.
Pencil – Mark cuts on tile backing.
Utility knife – Cut mesh backing and trim tiles.
Rubber mallet – Gently taps tiles into place.
Sponges – Dampen to clean off excess grout.
Buckets – Mix and carry mortar, grout, and water.

Prepare the Surface

The wall surface must be clean, dry, and structurally sound for the tile to adhere properly. Follow these steps:

Remove any existing wall coverings like paint or wallpaper. Scrape and sand surfaces smooth.
The wall should be plumb and flat. Use shims if needed for irregular areas.
Clean thoroughly to remove any grease, dirt, or soap residue. Rinse well.
Fill any cracks or holes with patching compound. Let dry completely.
Prime painted walls before tiling for better adhesion. Use a primer made for tile.
Install cement board if tiling directly over drywall. This provides a durable surface.
Let new plaster or skim coat cure fully for at least 28 days before tiling.

Proper prep prevents stones from popping off later.

Plan Your Layout

Carefully plotting the tile layout takes extra time but avoids problems later. Consider these factors:

Stone pattern and grain – Arrange tiles so the pattern or grain aligns nicely.
Starting point – Begin tiling in the center and work outward.
Outlet placement – Arrange tiles so plates will cover cutouts.
Border tiles – Border tiles shouldn’t be skinnier than a half tile.
Irregular spaces – Adjust layout to avoid awkward narrow tiles.
Plumb and level – Use a level to ensure the rows stay straight.

Work out the layout with loose tiles first. Adjust spacing as needed.

Prepare the Tile Adhesive

Mixing the tile adhesive is a crucial step. Follow the product instructions precisely:

Select an adhesive suitable for stone in wet areas. White premixed thinset works for walls.
Only mix what can be used in about 30 minutes. Discard any unused adhesive.
Pour clean water in the bucket first, then gradually add powder.
Mix with a paddle on a power drill. Blend until smooth with no lumps.
Let the mixture slake for 10 minutes, then remix before using.
Add latex or polymer modifiers to improve adhesion if needed.

Test the adhesive on the wall periodically as you work to ensure a good transfer.

Spread the Thinset

Using the right technique to spread the thinset adhesive is important:

Apply adhesive only to areas that will be immediately tiled.
Use a notched trowel to evenly comb the adhesive onto the wall at a 45 degree angle.
Spread 1/4″ to 3/8” thick after notching. Immediately apply tiles into the ridges.
Only spread thinset over areas that can be tiled in 30 minutes before it dries.
Use the flat side of the trowel to flatten any high ridges or bumps.
Be sure the coverage and depth is consistent to avoid uneven tiles.

Spread thinset adhesive only when ready to actively set tiles.

Cut and Fit the Border Tiles

It takes extra time to precisely measure, mark, and cut the border tiles:

Measure and dry fit border tiles first before spreading any thinset.
Mark the back side of the tile where cuts need to be made.
Keep the factory edges intact when possible so cut edges aren’t exposed.
Make straight cuts with a wet saw. Use a diamond blade made for stone.
Cut tiles face up to avoid chipping. Go slowly for clean edges.
Use a rubbing stone or sandpaper to smooth any rough tile edges.
Test each cut tile to ensure it fits neatly into position.

Measure twice and cut carefully for a clean professional edge.

Set the Tiles in Place

Carefully pressing the tiles into the adhesive takes finesse:

Apply a layer of mortar to tile backs to improve adhesion. Use a notched trowel.
Place cut border tiles first since they are hardest to fit.
Hold the tile at a slight angle and use a twisting motion to slide into place.
Use spacers between tiles to maintain even grout line spacing.
Push tiles toward any previous tile to keep spacing tight.
Make sure tiles are fully embedded flat in the thinset.
Check level and plumb as you go with a level to keep rows straight.
Only spread thinset and set tiles over areas you can reach without stepping over wet mortar.

Work methodically and carefully to keep tiles evenly aligned.

Apply the Grout

Grout fills the seams between tiles. Follow these tips:

Let thinset cure fully for 24-48 hours before grouting stone tiles.
Choose an unsanded grout for tile joints 1/8” or smaller. Use a sanded grout for wider joints.
Follow mixing directions carefully. Only mix what can be applied in 30 minutes.
Hold the grout float at a 30° angle to force grout deeply into joints.
Wipe diagonally across tiles to remove excess grout. Rinse the sponge frequently.
Don’t wait too long before wiping away grout residue on the tile surface.
Allow grout to cure undisturbed for 48 hours. Keep the area dry.

When grouting is complete, the tiles should have a clean, consistent appearance.

Seal the Stone

Sealing is highly recommended as the final step:

Let grout cure fully for 72 hours before applying any sealant.
Select a penetrating sealant formulated for stone. Water-based types are best.
Carefully follow the manufacturer’s application instructions.
Apply sealant evenly with a paint pad, brush, or spray bottle.
Wipe away all excess sealer completely using clean towels.
2-3 thin coats of sealant provides better protection than one thick coat.
Reapply sealant once a year to maintain protection.

Sealing helps prevent staining and makes ongoing maintenance much easier.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips for the best results as you install stone backsplash:

Always double check measurements before cutting tiles or adhesive.
Work in small sections you can comfortably reach without stepping in wet thinset.
Be extremely careful when setting soft or fragile stones like marble or limestone. Take it slow.
Wipe away any thinset or grout from the tile surface immediately to avoid drying.
Keep spare tiles handy in case you need to replace any that get damaged.
Use high quality setting materials and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t walk on newly tiled floors for at least 24 hours as the mortar cures.

With careful planning and patience, you can have beautiful stone backsplash that will last for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of thinset should I use?

For natural stone in wet areas like backsplashes, use a premixed white polymer-modified thinset adhesive. This provides flexibility and water-resistance.

Can I use mastic instead of thinset?

No, mastics are not suitable for stone tile. Always use a cement-based thinset mortar. It provides a much stronger bond.

How long does thinset take to cure?

Most thinset mortars take 24-48 hours to fully cure before grouting. Check the product instructions. Some rapid-set thinsets can be grouted after just 4-6 hours.

What color grout should I choose?

Select a grout color that matches or contrasts nicely with your tiles. White and gray are common backsplash grout colors. For wider joints, use a sanded grout for a smoother finish.

How soon can I use the backsplash after tiling?

Avoid direct water contact with the backsplash for at least 72 hours after grouting. Let the grout and thinset cure fully before heavy use.

What’s the best way to cut stone tiles?

Always use a wet saw with a diamond blade when cutting stone tiles. Cut slowly and evenly for clean edges. A rod saw can also be used for detailed contours.

Can I install a stone backsplash directly over drywall?

No, cement board should be installed over drywall first to provide a durable surface for the tile. Use fiberglass mesh tape at the seams.

Conclusion

Installing a stone tile backsplash boosts the beauty and value of your kitchen or bathroom. Careful planning is needed to choose the right stone, gather supplies, prepare the surface, lay out tiles, spread adhesive, grout, and seal properly. Patience and attention to detail results in a stunning, lasting backsplash feature. With this step-by-step guide, you can feel confident tackling a stone tile backsplash project.