How to Tile Subway Tile Backsplash

Tiling your own subway tile backsplash can be a satisfying DIY project that adds style and value to your kitchen. With some planning, patience, and the right materials, you can achieve a high-end backsplash look on a budget. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to successfully tile a subway tile backsplash yourself.

Introduction

Subway tile is a classic rectangular ceramic or glass tile that gets its name from resembling tiles used in early 20th century subway stations. The tile is typically 3 x 6 inches, with a height twice the width. The elongated shape and clean lines create a sense of order that works well in both traditional and modern kitchens.

Subway tiles remain one of the most popular backsplash tile choices because they are:

Timeless and versatile for many kitchen styles
Easy to install in straight layout patterns
Budget-friendly compared to other tile types
Easy to clean and maintain

Installing a subway tile backsplash is an approachable DIY tiling project. The small uniform size of the tile allows for manageable cuts, straightforward layouts, and easier grouting. With proper planning and preparation, you can lay subway tile in a weekend and enjoy a polished backsplash for years to come.

This guide will walk you through the entire process including:

Selecting the right subway tile and tools
Preparing and laying out your design
Installing tile in a step-by-step sequence
Grouting for a flawless finish

Follow these tips and techniques for how to achieve a stunning subway-tiled backsplash even if you’ve never tiled before.

Things You’ll Need

Before starting your project, assemble all the necessary materials and tools. Having everything on hand will make the installation go faster and smoother.

Tile

Subway tile – Purchase enough tile to cover your backsplash area with an additional 10% extra to account for cuts and waste.
Variety – Subway tiles come in ceramic, glass, and stone. Choose the material and finish that fits your design.
Color/pattern – Select a single tile color or create a pattern with alternating colors. Neutral colors work well in most kitchens.
Tile edging – Bullnose edge tiles create a finished look on exposed edges. Coordinate with your field tile.

Setting Materials

Thinset mortar – Use an appropriate thinset for the tile material and wall surface. Latex modified thinset works for most subway tile applications.
Grout – Choose a grout color that complements your tile. Unsanded grout is best for narrow subway tile joints.
Backerboard – Cement board provides a stable surface for the tile; use 1/2″ thickness.
Membrane – Apply a waterproofing membrane over surfaces like drywall.
Adhesive mat – Self-adhesive mats help attach tile to existing backsplash surfaces.

Tools

Mixing bucket – For mixing thinset mortar
Notched trowel – Pick a trowel (1/4″ or 3/16″ notch) based on your tile size
Grout float – For spreading grout between tile joints
Sponges – For cleaning excess grout off tile
Tile cutter – Cuts through subway tile cleanly
Nippers – To nip smaller pieces to fit around outlets and edges
Level – Checks that your tiles are level as you go
Tape measure – For measuring for cuts
Pencil – Marks cuts and layout reference lines
Carpenter’s square – Ensures your layout lines are perpendicular
Safety gear – Gloves, goggles, knee pads to protect yourself

Other Supplies

Drop cloths – Protect work surfaces from mess
Painter’s tape – Secures perimeter tiles in place as you go
Spacers – Places between tiles for consistent grout line spacing
Grout sealing – Protects grout from staining
Cleaning supplies – For post-installation clean-up

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Proper preparation of the workspace and wall surface ensures the tile adheres and lasts.

Clear the area under and around the backsplash of appliances, cookware, and other items. This allows you to work unobstructed.
Protect nearby surfaces you don’t intend to tile like countertops or floors using drop cloths. Tiling can get messy.
Clean the backsplash area thoroughly removing any existing backsplash, outlet covers, old adhesive, grease, and dust. The tile needs to adhere to a clean surface.
Fill any holes or imperfections in the wall with spackle and sand smooth.
Install cement board if tiling directly over drywall. Use exterior grade boards for areas that may get wet.
If using existing tile or water-resistant surface, roughen it up with sandpaper so the thinset mortar adheres.
Apply a waterproofing membrane over surfaces that need additional moisture protection behind the tile.
Check the area is square using levels and angle measurements to adjust the starting point if needed.

Once prepped, you can begin laying out your tile design.

Step 2: Plan the Tile Layout

Taking time to map out the pattern, determine cuts, and establish level lines will make installation much easier.

Decide on your tile pattern. The most common subway tile layout is the basic off-set brick pattern. But consider other options like stacked, herringbone, or basketweave layouts.
Map it out. Mark the center point, then dry lay tiles on the floor to visualize placement and pattern flow. Adjust to evenly space partial edge tiles.
Plan cut tiles. Identify edge and obstacle tiles that need cutting. Minimize small sliver tiles for a cleaner look.
Mark reference lines. Use a level and pencil to mark plumb vertical and level horizontal layout lines spaced equal to your tile height. Outline the installation area.
Determine starting point. Pick a focal point like the stove or sink as the center. Work outward in all directions using your lines as a guide.
Mix thinset. Prepare the thinset mortar following package directions. Let it slake for 10 minutes then remix before using to achieve the proper consistency.
Gather supplies. Have materials and tools handy to tile a full section once you begin. Keep the area free of clutter.

Take the time to work out tile spacing, pattern, and orientation ahead of time. This allows the installation to go smoothly.

Step 3: Install the Subway Tile Backsplash

Now you’re ready to begin tiling. Follow these tips for ensuring proper placement and adhesion of each tile:

Work in small sections so the thinset mortar doesn’t dry before tile is applied.
Use plastic tile spacers between tiles to maintain even grout line spacing.
Push tiles firmly into the thinset mortar for full adhesion and proper spacing.
Check level and pattern alignment periodically as you go using the reference lines.
Cut tiles that need shaping using a wet saw or tile cutter. File edges smooth.
Allow thinset to cure fully (24-48 hours) before grouting.

Other installation tips:

Start tiles in the center and work outward.
Cut edge and obstacle tiles to fit gaps using nippers.
Keep cut edges facing the same direction for consistency.
Don’t install tiles with chipped corners or imperfections.
Use a grout float to check that tiles are flush, not uneven.
Let thinset dry fully before grouting to prevent hazing and staining.

Take care to lay the tiles accurately the first time for a flawless finish.

How to Cut Subway Tiles

Most subway tile backsplashes require some tile cutting around the perimeter or for outlets and fixtures. Follow these techniques for smooth, clean cuts:

Use a wet saw to accurately cut small tiles to size. Submerge tile and keep the saw blade wet while cutting.
For curved cuts, use a tile nipper to nip away small fragments until the shape forms. Smooth the rough edges with a rubbing stone.
Cut holes for outlets and fixtures using a carbide hole saw drill bit in a drill press. Move slowly to prevent cracking.
Use an angle grinder with a diamond blade for quick straight cuts through tiles. Wear a respirator to avoid inhaling dust.
Score and snap tile using a tile cutter for straight cuts. Use the cutting wheel to score the tile, then snap pieces cleanly apart.

Making precise cuts results in a backsplash that fits beautifully on every edge.

Step 4: Apply the Grout

Grouting fills the seams between tiles with a waterproof material and finishes the job. Follow these tips for smooth, attractive grout lines:

Choose a grout color that complements your tile, preferably in a slightly darker shade.
Apply grout using a rubber float, pressing into joints at a 45° angle. Hold the float at 90° for the final pass to smooth.
Keep grout lines uniform for the best visual effect. The smaller the tile, the smaller the grout joint.
Once dry, use a damp sponge in a circular motion to clean residue from tile surface. Rinse the sponge frequently in clean water.
Avoid smearing grout by cleaning in small sections and not letting it dry on the surface.
Run a damp microfiber cloth lightly over the tile afterwards to polish to a shine.
Seal your grout within 24 hours to prevent staining and increase water resistance.

Thoroughly cleaning the grout off the tile face ensures your pattern and colors stay vibrant.

Tips for Achieving a Flawless Subway Tile Backsplash

Follow these pro tips as you go through your project for the highest quality finished backsplash possible:

Carefully mix thinset mortar to avoid lumps for even tile adhesion.
Use tile spacers for perfectly straight, evenly spaced grout lines.
Establish reference lines and check periodically for straightness.
Apply pressure to tiles while the thinset is wet to ensure a strong bond.
Clean tiles with a damp sponge as you go to prevent thinset haze and residue.
Use painter’s tape outside edges to secure perimeter tiles tightly together.
Inspect tiles before installing and don’t use any with defects.
Work patiently in small sections for the most control over placement.
Let thinset cure fully before grouting to prevent uneven tile surfaces.
Grout carefully and uniformly to prevent variation in grout line spacing.
Seal grout to prevent staining and increase longevity of your backsplash.

FAQs

Get answers to common questions about installing subway tile backsplash:

What thinset mortar should I use?

Choose a polymer-modified thinset that is appropriate for your project. Basic lightweight thinsets work for most indoor backsplashes. Use a white thinset for white grout or light stone tile. For glass tile, use a specialized glass tile thinset.

How do I cut subway tiles?

Use a wet saw for most accurate cuts. A tile cutter also works well for straight cuts. Score the tile and snap the pieces off for clean edges. Use a carbide drill bit for cut-outs around fixtures or tile nippers for small nips.

How far apart should subway tiles be?

Subway tiles are traditionally installed with very thin grout lines. For 3×6” tiles, grout lines are typically 1/16” to 1/8” wide. Use tile spacers in the joint to ensure consistent spacing.

Can I install subway tile directly over drywall?

Drywall alone does not provide enough support for tile. Install cement backerboard first to reinforce the wall and prevent sagging. If not replacing drywall, apply a waterproof membrane before tiling.

Should I seal my grout?

Yes, sealing the grout makes it more stain resistant and easier to keep clean. Seal with a penetrating grout sealer within 24 hours of grouting before any staining occurs. Reapply yearly.

How do I cut holes in tile for outlets?

Mark the hole location on the tile, then use a carbide hole saw drill bit to drill through the tile, holding tile securely to prevent cracking. Use a tile nipper to nip out small edge fragments until the outlet fits neatly.

Conclusion

Installing subway tile backsplash brings an eye-catching, affordable upgrade to your kitchen. By following the techniques in this guide, you can achieve a polished, professional-looking backsplash successfully. Proper planning, careful tile-setting, and meticulous attention to detail will result in a stunning do-it-yourself backsplash you’ll enjoy showing off.

With a weekend, some patience, and these step-by-step instructions, you can be the proud owner of a brand new, on-trend subway tile backsplash!