Installing a herringbone tile backsplash can add visual interest and dimension to your kitchen or bathroom. With some planning and the right tools, you can achieve this look on your own. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to lay a herringbone tile pattern backsplash.
What You Need
- Herringbone tiles
- Tile adhesive
- Notched trowel
- Tile spacers
- Tile cutter
- Grout
- Grout float
- Grout sealer
- Sponge
- Bucket
- Tile nippers
- Safety gear like gloves, goggles, knee pads
Prepare the Surface
Before you can start tiling, you need to make sure the surface is clean, dry, and ready for the tile.
- Remove any old backsplash if present. Scrape off any leftover adhesive or grout.
- Fill any holes or imperfections with spackle. Allow it to dry completely.
- Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust, oil or debris.
- Apply primer if painting the surface. Allow paint to dry fully before tiling.
Plan the Layout
Map out your tile layout ahead of time so you know where to start and how tiles will fit together.
- Determine the center point of the backsplash area.
- Dry lay a row of tiles here to set the center line.
- Work outwards from the center, dry laying tiles in a pyramid shape.
- Use tile spacers to evenly space tiles.
- Cut edge tiles to fit using a tile cutter.
- Adjust layout until you are happy with the placement.
Apply Adhesive
With the layout set, you can start fixing the tiles to the wall.
- Apply a thin layer of tile adhesive to a section of the wall using a notched trowel.
- Spread only as much as you can tile in 30 minutes.
- Press tiles firmly into the adhesive. Use spacers to maintain even gaps.
- Continue working in sections until the backsplash is fully tiled.
Let Tiles Set
Allow tiles to cure for at least 24 hours without disturbing them. This allows the adhesive to fully harden.
- Keep foot traffic away during this time.
- Do not apply grout or make adjustments during this period.
- Check after 24 hours that all tiles are firmly fixed.
Apply Grout
Once tiles have fully set, you can grout the joints between them.
- Mix grout as per package directions and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Apply grout using a grout float, pressing into joints.
- Wipe diagonally across tiles with a damp sponge to clean grout haze.
- Rinse sponge frequently and change water as needed.
- Allow grout to dry for 72 hours.
Seal Grout
Sealing the grout will protect it from moisture and stains.
- Apply grout sealer according to product instructions.
- Use an applicator bottle to apply it carefully to grout lines.
- Wipe off any excess sealer from the tile surface.
- Allow sealer to dry completely before using backsplash.
And that’s it! With some careful prep and installation, you can achieve a professionally-installed herringbone backsplash in your home. Always refer to manufacturer’s instructions for specific tile and product recommendations. Take your time, measure twice, and cut once for the best results.
FAQs About Laying Herringbone Tile Backsplash
What type of tile works best for herringbone patterns?
Small rectangular or square tiles less than 4 inches work best. Subway tiles, mosaics, and pennies are common options. Porcelain, ceramic, marble, glass tiles can all be used.
What is the best adhesive for herringbone tile?
Use a high quality thinset mortar adhesive that is formulated for walls and the specific tile you are using. White premixed adhesive is easiest for beginners.
Should tiles be laid horizontally or vertically?
It depends on the look you want, but laying tiles vertically often works best for herringbone patterns. Play with different orientations when dry laying tiles.
How are cut edge tiles adhered without full coverage?
Butter the back of cut edge tiles with adhesive in addition to spreading it on the wall. This ensures good contact. Use tile spacers on cut edges.
Should the grout lines all run the same direction?
For herringbone, it looks best when grout lines flow with the direction of each row of tiles. So grout lines should alternate direction rather than running vertically or horizontally across entire backsplash.
What is the minimum grout joint recommended?
1/8 inch grout joints are ideal for most herringbone backsplash designs. Do not use less than 1/16 inch grout lines with porcelain or ceramic tiles.
Conclusion
With meticulous planning and installation, you can achieve a showstopping herringbone tile backsplash in your home. Take time to properly prepare the surface, dry lay the pattern, apply adhesive, and grout the tiles. The extra effort is well worth the visual impact a herringbone design can add. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for all products used. And don’t be afraid to take your time – a carefully executed herringbone backsplash is sure to be a focal point you’ll admire for years to come.