Tiling a backsplash can transform the look of your kitchen by adding visual interest, easy-to-clean surfaces, and an element of style. However, tiling the corners of a backsplash neatly and cleanly can be tricky. With some planning and careful technique, you can tile backsplash corners beautifully.
Choose the Right Tile
Picking the right tile is the first step to tiling a backsplash corner successfully. Consider:
- Smaller tiles like mosaics, subway tiles, or hexagons make tiling corners easier than large tiles. The small size allows the tile to bend and conform to the corner shape.
- Tile thickness should be evaluated. Thicker tiles are less flexible and harder to fit into corners. Aim for smaller thickness tiles around 1/4 inch thick.
- Grout lines affect the corner look. Small grout lines (1/16 inch) keep the pattern clean and minimize dark grout gaps in the corner.
- Tile material matters too. Softer, more flexible materials like ceramic conform better than very hard, inflexible porcelain.
Once you select the right tile, it’s time to prep and install.
Prep the Surface
Proper prep ensures tiles adhere properly and last. To prep the backsplash corner:
- Clean thoroughly to remove grease, residue, and soap scum from the corner.
- Sand glossy surfaces with 220 grit sandpaper so the thinset mortar adheres.
- Fill any holes or gaps in the drywall corner with spackle and let dry completely.
- Apply painter’s tape along the edges to protect the countertop and walls.
- Prime raw drywall before applying thinset if needed.
Once prepped, it’s time to start tiling.
How to Tile the Corner
Tiling the backsplash corner takes precision. Follow these steps:
- Mix thinset mortar according to package directions. Apply it to the backsplash corner using a notched trowel held at a 45 degree angle.
- Plan your pattern. Dry lay a few tiles in the corner before installing to visualize the spacing and pattern alignment.
- Cut corner edge tiles as needed for perfect fit using a wet saw or tile cutter.
- Press the first tile firmly into place as close to the corner as possible. Use tile spacers near the edges.
- Apply more thinset and place the next tile, aligning the edges cleanly. Remove any excess mortar.
- Continue tiling the corner by applying thinset and setting additional tiles. Periodically remove spacers and press tiles firmly into the corner.
- Use a grout float to pack joint mortar into any corner gaps following the tile manufacturer’s directions. Remove excess.
- Grout tiles normally after the thinset cures completely, usually 24 hours. Apply grout with a rubber grout float. Buff off residue.
- Caulk corner edges with a flexible siliconized acrylic caulk for a tidy finish once grouted.
Take care through the process and you can achieve perfectly tiled backsplash corners.
Tips for Great Looking Corners
Follow these tips for professional looking corner tiles:
- Cut edge tiles to size for a precise fit. Avoid small slivers of tile.
- Keep tile lines symmetrical by starting tiling in the corner and working out.
- Use edge tiles right side up vs upside down for best corner alignment.
- Fill any corner gaps with joint mortar so grout lines stay straight.
- Avoid dark grout colors which accentuate corner gaps or uneven lines.
- Use a detail grout brush to ensure corner joints are fully grouted.
- Caulk the seams with flexible caulk after grouting for clean edges.
- Take time to get it right—don’t rush the precision corner tiling steps.
With careful prep and installation, you can achieve perfectly tiled backsplash corners that look fantastic.
Common Backsplash Corner Problems and Solutions
Even when carefully tiled, backsplash corners can sometimes have issues. Here are solutions for common corner problems:
Uneven grout lines:
- Check for gaps and fill with joint mortar before grouting.
- Use a detail grout brush to pack the corners fully.
- If re-grouting, rake out old grout completely before reapplying.
Cracked corner tiles:
- Replace any cracked tiles. Match grout color and finish.
- Use a more flexible thinset mortar suitable for corners.
Gaps or cracks at corners:
- Apply flexible caulk in the corner gap after grouting. Tool smoothly.
- If the gap is too large, re-tile the corner ensuring even spacing.
Discolored corner grout:
- Use a grout haze remover and soft cloth to gently clean.
- For stubborn stains, re-grout the corner with fresh grout.
Peeling corner tiles:
- Remove loose tiles and scrape off old thinset.
- Reapply new thinset mortar and reset tiles. Regrout.
With attention and care, any backsplash corner issues can be repaired for a flawless look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cut tiles for a backsplash corner?
Use a wet saw to precisely cut tiles to size and shape for the corner. Make sure tiles fit tightly. Use edge tiles right side up for proper alignment.
What is the best grout color for backsplash corners?
Lighter grout colors like white or off-white minimize the appearance of corner grout lines. Avoid darker grouts which show gaps more.
Should I use special corner trim tiles?
Trim options like bullnose or pencil tile make finishing easier. But you can create a clean look without speciality corner tiles with careful tile cutting.
What thinset mortar is best for backsplash corners?
A white, polymer-modified thinset offers flexibility and strength for corner installation. Unsanded thinset works for grouting corner joints.
How soon can I grout corner tiles after installing?
Let the thinset cure fully, usually 24 hours. Don’t grout tiles in the corner until the tiles are firmly set and adhered to the wall.
Conclusion
Tiling backsplash corners neatly provides a polished, seamless look in your kitchen. With the right tiles, materials, precision cutting, and careful installation technique, you can achieve perfectly tiled inside corners. Plan your pattern, prep thoroughly, apply thinset carefully, cut exact tile sizes, align grout lines, and tool caulk neatly. Your sleek, clean-lined backsplash corners will upgrade your whole kitchen’s style. With patience and care, beautifully tiled backsplash corners are totally achievable as a DIYer.