How to Subway Tile Backsplash - Backsplash Kitchen

A subway tile backsplash can be a beautiful and classic addition to any kitchen. Subway tiles get their name from their rectangular shape that resembles the tiles found in New York City subway stations. With their clean lines and versatile neutral colors, subway tiles create an elegant yet understated backsplash that works with nearly any kitchen decor. Installing a subway tile backsplash is a manageable DIY weekend project for many homeowners. With some planning, the right materials, and proper technique, you can achieve a high-quality backsplash that makes a statement in your kitchen.

Selecting Subway Tiles

The first step in creating your subway tile backsplash is choosing the right tiles. Here are some factors to consider when selecting subway tiles:

Tile Material

Subway tiles come in several materials:

Ceramic – A classic option, ceramic tiles are affordable, easy to cut, and come in glossy or matte finishes. Their porous nature requires sealing.
Porcelain – Denser and less porous than ceramic, porcelain tiles have high water resistance and durability. Their refined look makes them suitable for modern kitchens.
Glass – With a shiny, sleek appearance, glass subway tiles make a contemporary style statement. They resist moisture but can chip if hit hard.
Natural Stone – Elegant yet rugged, natural stone tiles like marble or travertine have distinct veining in an organic look. They require sealing.

Tile Size

The most common subway tile sizes are:

2×4 inches – The classic size, 2×4-inch subway tiles have an elongated rectangular shape installed in a brick pattern.
3×6 inches – 50% larger than standard size, the elongated 3×6-inch tiles have a more modern, dramatic look.
4×8 inches – Twice as long as 2×4-inch tiles, the 4×8 size has a contemporary vibe perfect for a statement wall.
Mosaic Sheets – Many mosaic tiles adhere to mesh sheets for easier installation in geometric patterns.

Tile Color

Subway tiles come in virtually endless colors. The most popular choices are:

White – A timeless classic, white subway tiles project a clean, bright look and matches any style.
Gray – From light dove to dark charcoal, gray subway tiles offer flexibility as a neutral backdrop.
Beige – With warmth and texture, beige tiles complement wood cabinetry for an earthy yet sophisticated vibe.
Black – For dramatic contrast, bold black subway tiles lend contemporary chic. Pair with bright accent colors.
Blue – Cool blue subway tiles from pale to cobalt make a refreshing colorful statement.
Green – Verdant green tiles in shades from sage to forest green bring life to kitchens.
Multicolor – Mix colored subway tiles in eclectic patterns or designs for a playful, vintage effect.

Prepare the Workspace

To tackle a subway tile backsplash, you’ll need to clear sufficient workspace. Here are some tips:

Remove everything from backsplash area – take down wall art, outlets covers, light fixtures.
Cover countertops with rosin paper or plastic sheeting to protect from mess.
Clean surfaces thoroughly and fill any holes or flaws with spackle compound.
Gather all necessary tools – tape measure, tile cutter, spacers, grout float, mixing bucket, sponges, etc.
Have on hand materials – tiles, thinset mortar, grout, sealant.
Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation.
Allow ample time for thinset mortar and grout to cure before using kitchen.

With the right prep, you’ll have an efficient, smoothly running subway tile installation.

Install Tile Backer Board

Before tiling, you need to install tile backer board as a secure base. Here is the process:

Remove existing drywall with utility knife or circular saw set to 1/8” depth.
Measure area and cut cement backer board to size with scoring knife or circular saw.
Apply thinset mortar to wall with notched trowel in even 1/4” layer.
Press backer board into mortar, keeping it straight with tile spacers at seams.
Drive screws at 8” intervals across boards to studs for support.
Let thinset mortar dry completely for 24 hours before tiling.

With sturdy backer board as a substrate, your subway tile backsplash will be strong, stable, and water-resistant.

Lay Out Your Tile Pattern

Now it’s time to map out your tile layout. This important planning step will ensure a cohesive design.

Determine the center point of your backsplash area and mark a plumb line with a level.
Dry lay tiles on countertop staggered in a brick pattern aligned to plumb line.
Measure and mark where tiles intersect with edges and fixtures to plan cuts.
For outlet areas, measure and mark tile cuts needed to fit boxes neatly.
Decide borders and accents like trim tiles, mosaics, designs. Mark where each will go.
Adjust pattern until satisfied with the aligned layout and required cuts.

Thorough layout prep will provide a blueprint to follow for smooth tile setting.

Prepare and Apply Thinset Mortar

With your tile layout mapped, properly preparing and applying thinset mortar is key:

Choose unmodified thinset for walls in dry areas like backsplashes.
Mix thinset powder with water to a thick, pasty consistency according to instructions.
Use notched side of trowel to spread a 1/4″ layer of thinset onto the backer board.
Apply only as much thinset as can be tiled within 15-20 minutes before it skins over.
Use flat side of trowel to knock down high points and achieve an even setting bed.
Press tiles firmly into thinset and move slightly back and forth to set.
Periodically pull up a tile to check thinset coverage on back – should be at least 80%.

Take care to properly mix and apply thinset so your tiles adhere securely.

Cut and Place Subway Tiles

Now comes the gratifying part – setting the subway tiles into place:

Make Precise Cuts

Use a wet saw for straight cuts and ceramic nippers for curved or notch cuts.
For outlet boxes, measure and mark tiles precisely to fit around boxes neatly.
Cut tiles intentionally large, then use sandpaper or diamond hand pads to refine cuts for perfect fit.
Support cut tiles completely so edges don’t dip into thinset and become uneven.

Set Tiles in Staggered Pattern

Start tiles in the center of your plumb line and work outward in a pyramid pattern.
Follow the established layout, using spacers for even grout lines.
Stagger tiles brick-style so joints are not aligned from row to row.
Intermittently check level and plumb with tile leveling system to ensure straight lines.
Fit perimeter and accent tiles neatly into layout as per plan.
Don’t spread thinset too far ahead to prevent skin over.

Finish Tricks

Where tiles meets countertop edge, leave 1/8” gap to caulk later for flexibility.
For inside corners, miter tiles with special cutter for seamless line.
Where backsplash meets wall, leave 1/16” gap and cover with bullnose trim or caulk.

With care and patience, you can achieve a flawlessly aligned subway tile layout.

Grouting Subway Tile Backsplash

Once all tiles are set, it’s time to grout for a polished finished look:

Prepare and Apply Grout

Choose sanded grout for joints wider than 1/8”, unsanded for narrower. Match grout color to tiles.
Mix grout powder with water to creamy, peanut butter-like consistency per instructions.
Use grout float to spread grout forcefully into joints to fill any gaps. Diagonally sweep off excess.
Wipe diagonally across tiles with minimal pressure to avoid pulling grout from joints.
Allow to dry until haze forms on tiles before cleaning further.

Clean Grout Haze

Wet tile surface lightly with sponge and buff grout haze in circular motion.
Rinse sponge frequently to remove haze residue and re-wet tile as needed.
Use minimum pressure when cleaning to keep grout in joints in place.
Allow grout to cure fully for 72 hours before additional cleaning if haze persists.

Careful grouting and cleaning will result in defined grout lines free of haze.

Seal and Finish Subway Tile Backsplash

As a final step, protect your tiles and achieve a shiny finish:

Allow grout to cure fully for 72 hours before sealing or polishing tiles.
Apply penetrating sealant like Miracle Sealants 511 Porous Plus to prevent stains.
Use grout sealer like Miracle Sealants 511 Grout Sealer for extra grout protection.
Polish tiles with dry microfiber cloth or buffing pad to create a bright sheen.
Caulk with silicone sealant where tile meets countertop or wall to allow expansion.

Sealing and polishing your new backsplash will help keep it looking like new for years to come.

Installing a subway tile backsplash requires careful planning, precision, and patience. But with the proper materials and techniques, you can achieve a dramatic DIY kitchen upgrade in a weekend. The classic, clean style of subway tiles will provide a versatile, elegant focal point that cooks and guests will admire for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing a Subway Tile Backsplash

Many homeowners have additional questions when installing a subway tile backsplash. Here are answers to some of the most common FAQs:

What tools do I need for a subway tile backsplash?

You’ll need basic tiling tools like a notched trowel, tile spacers, mixing buckets, a grout float, sponges, and clean rags. For cutting, a wet saw is best for straight cuts while tile nippers work for small notches or curves.

What’s the best subway tile size?

The classic 2×4-inch size has an elongated shape perfect for staggering in brick patterns. Larger sizes like 3×6-inch have a more modern look. Mosaics create interesting designs. Choose what size and shape suits your style.

How are subway tiles installed on the wall?

Tiles should adhere to cement backer board installed first on the wall. Use a notched trowel to spread a thin, even layer of thinset mortar. Press tiles into thinset and set perpendicular to the floor in a staggered brick pattern.

Can I install a subway tile backsplash directly over drywall?

No, drywall alone can’t support the weight of tile. Install cement backer board first to provide a durable, moisture-resistant base. Make sure the backer board is firmly screwed into studs.

What thinset mortar is best for subway tiles?

Use unmodified thinset for walls in dry areas. It provides the right adhesive strength. White thinset shows through light grout less. Take care to mix thinset well and apply an even 1/4” layer.

How long does thinset mortar take to dry before grouting?

Allow thinset mortar to cure fully for 24 hours before grouting. This ensures tiles are firmly adhered. Grout too soon and tiles may shift out of place when spreading grout.

Can I use sanded grout with subway tiles?

Yes, sanded grout is recommended for most subway tile installations where joint width exceeds 1/8”. The sand helps fill joints firmly. Be sure to buff off excess grout thoroughly to prevent haze on tiles.

Do subway tiles need to be sealed?

Sealing is an important step to prevent staining and daily wear, especially for porous tiles like ceramic and natural stone. Use a penetrating sealer made for tiles. Re-seal every 1-2 years.

Conclusion

Installing a subway tile backsplash can take a weekend DIY kitchen renovation from drab to dramatic. With proper planning, materials, tile setting techniques, grouting, and sealing, you can achieve a backsplash with the classic elegance subway tiles are prized for. Pay attention to details like using backer board, proper thinset application, careful grout cleanup, and sealing, and your new backsplash will withstand the test of time. With a little patience and creativity, your subway tile backsplash can become a kitchen focal point you’ll enjoy for decades to come.