How to Lay a Tile Backsplash

Laying a tile backsplash is easy!

A tile backsplash in your kitchen can make the room feel warm and inviting. Laying a tile backsplash takes some time and patience, but it's well worth the effort. Doing it yourself helps save money too. Here's how to lay a tile backsplash:

Things You'll Need

• sander
• glazed kitchen tiles
• level
• pencil
• tile adhesive
• notched trowel
• tile cutter
• grout
• silicone grout sealer
• rubber float
• sponge
• cloths
• caulk
• rubber gloves

Instructions

1. 

   If your kitchen tile backsplash is currently painted drywall, the job is easy! All you have to do is sand the drywall surface and you're ready to lay backsplash tile (sanding the drywall creates a rough surface that the tile will adhere strongly to). If you have an existing backsplash, remove all tile with a chisel and sand the drywall so it is smooth.

2. 

   Find the center of the backsplash wall and measure where you want to lay the tile. Use a pencil to mark vertical and horizontal lines where appropriate. You want the tile size to be consistent at each end point.

3. 

   Remove the stove hood, switches, light switch plates and any other obstacle that will be in your way for backsplash tiling. Also be sure to unplug or turn off kitchen electrical outlets and appliances before you begin.

4. 

   Apply the tile adhesive to the wall with the notched trowel, starting at the bottom middle of the backsplash area where the tile will go. Set the backsplash tiles into the adhesive and place the spacers in-between each as you go. Be sure to give each tile a slight twist to ensure a good bond with the adhesive. Cut the backsplash tiles as needed to fit the ends. You can also use sandpaper to smooth out the tile edges if they are sharp after you cut them. Don't forget to leave space for caulking near the counter and other edges.

5. 

   Let the backsplash tiles set in the adhesive overnight.

6. 

   Remove the tile spacers and mix the grout according to the manufacturer's directions.

7. 

   Using the rubber float, apply the grout to the kitchen backsplash tile at a 45 degree angle. Wipe off excess grout with a wet sponge.

8. 

   After about an hour, check for grout haze on the kitchen backsplash tiles and wipe them clean as needed.

9. 

   Seal the corners around the kitchen backsplash tile with caulk (be sure to use a mildew resistant caulk).

10. 

    Apply a silicone grout sealer over the backsplash grout after a week (it takes about a week for the backsplash tile to 'cure'). The sealer will keep food stains from seaping into your grout.

11. See the Resources listed below for more tiling ideas.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy glazed backsplash tiles only. Grease, water and food will get on the tiles often.

• Use non-sanded grout to protect the glazed surface of the kitchen backsplash tiles.

• Buy a grout that has a waterproofing agent in it.

• Use box extenders on your electrical outlets after tiling (you'll need them to reattach your cover plates).

• Use rubber gloves when applying the adhesive and grout.

• After cutting backsplash tiles, be sure to handle them carefully - their edges may be sharp.

Resources

• How to Install Ceramic Wall Tiles
• How to Lay Bathroom Floor Tile
• How to Install Marble Tile on a Fireplace
• How to Buy and Install Glass Tile
• How to Install Wall Tiles
• How To Install Bathroom Tiles
• How To Regrout Shower Tile
• How to Lay a Tile Backsplash
• How To Stop A Linoleum Floor From Being Slippery
• How to Finish Wood Floors
• How to Paint a Room With a Vaulted Ceiling