How to Install Stainless Steel Tile

As more and more homeowners embrace stainless steel appliances and accents in the kitchen, stainless steel tiles are also becoming increasingly popular. Stainless steel tile backsplashes and countertops give an upscale, modern look to your kitchen. They look fresh, stand up to everyday wear and tear, and are easy to clean. Custom-made solid stainless steel backsplashes and countertops can be very pricey. Tiles give you a similar look for a much lower price, and are as easy to install as traditional ceramic tile.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stainless Steel Tiles
• Acrylic Tile Adhesive
• Tile Spacers (1/8 inch or less)
• 1/8-inch V-Notched Trowel
• Gloves
• Safety Glasses
• Dust Mask
• Circular Saw with Metal-Cutting Blade
• Metal File or Sandpaper
• Non-Sanded Grout or Acrylic Caulk

1. Determine the pattern for your backsplash or countertop. While a pattern at eliminates a lot of tile cutting makes the job easier, you can choose whatever layout you desire. Test fit a row of tiles in each direction to make sure that you are happy with the how the finished pattern will look.

2. Mix the tile adhesive according to package instructions. The consistency should be like peanut butter. Some adhesives are ready to apply and do not require mixing.

3. Apply a consistent layer of adhesive to a small area of the wall or countertop with the trowel. Prevent the adhesive from drying out by working in a small area. Form rows of ridges by dragging the notched side of the trowel through the layer of adhesive.

4. Press the first tile into the adhesive. If desired, use the tile spacers to form consistent spaces between the tiles. You can also choose to set the tiles as close as possible if you do not like the look of grout lines with your stainless steel tiles. Repeat this process until all the whole tiles are installed.

5. Cut all necessary tiles for edges and corners. Use a circular saw with a blade designed to cut metal. Protect your eyes, hands, and mouth from sharp metal edges and flying metal shards with safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask. Cut with the finished side of the tiles facing up, and use a metal file or sandpaper to smooth the cut edges. Install the cut tiles using the same method you used with the whole tiles.

6. Grout between the stainless steel tiles with a non-sanded grout or an acrylic caulk.

Tips & Warnings

• Glass and ceramic tiles look great when accented with a row of stainless steel tiles.
• Most stainless steel tiles are packaged with a peel-off plastic protector on the finished surface. Leave this protective layer on the tiles when cutting them to protect the surface.
• Always protect your eyes, hands, and mouth when cutting stainless steel tiles.
• Always read the adhesive instructions or consult an expert to determine if you can install stainless steel tiles on your wall type. Some adhesives cannot be applied directly to wood or drywall.
• Always face the finished side up when cutting stainless steel tiles.

[1citygirl]

on 8/18/2008 Good article. Different title. here is another article on choosing a metal backsplash. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/837513/how_to_install_a_metal_back_splash.html?cat=30