How to Install a Subway Tile Backsplash

Installing a tile backsplash can add value and style to your kitchen or bathroom. This tutorial shows you how to install subway tiles, arranged like bricks, that mimic the tiles found in many New York subway stations.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ruler or tape measure
• Screwdriver
• Clean cloths
• Paint scraper or sandpaper (optional)
• Notched tiling trowel
• Waterproof mastic tile adhesive
• Glazed subway tiles
• Tiling spacers (optional)
• Laser or traditional level
• Wet tile saw
• Tile cutters
• Latex gloves
• Waterproof grout
• Grout float or spreader

Prepare the Wall for Tiling

1. Before you begin, measure the space to be tiled. A backsplash begins at the counter top and typically rises from 8 inches to all the way to the cabinets above.

2. Purchase enough tile to cover the area desired plus 20 percent for breakage and edges.

3. Remove all electric outlet and switch covers.

4. Make sure the wall is free from condensation, unpatched cracks or loose coverings like wallpaper. If needed, scrape away any loose paint and lightly sand any glossy paint coatings.

5. Wash the wall with warm water and allow to completely dry.

Install the Subway Tile

6. Using the notched trowel, apply the waterproof adhesive in a 1/8 to 1/16-inch layer. The adhesive may dry quickly, so work in small squares for 2 to 3 feet on a side.

7. Install the first tile horizontally in the center of the backsplash just above the counter top. Gently twist the tile to set it into the adhesive.

8. Place spacers on each corner of the tile and press them into the adhesive. For the corners adjacent to the counter top, cut one end off the spacers before inserting.

9. Continue setting tiles and spacers in complete rows, making sure the tiles and spacers are flush. Note that some tiles have small nibs that replace spacers by evenly spacing the individual tiles.

10. Remove any excess adhesive that spills over the gaps between tiles with a damp cloth.

11. After placing the first row, check the top line of the tiles with the laser edge. Adjust the tiles as needed to level that edge.

12. Continue with the rest of the rows, offsetting each row by one-half the tile width, like a running brick pattern. This creates the signature subway tile look.

13. After each row, check the top level again and adjust the tiles as needed.

14. At the edges of each row or around electrical outlets, use the tile cutter or tile saw to provide a clean edge.

15. When you finish tiling, wipe the tile surface with a damp cloth to remove any remaining adhesive.

16. Allow the tiles to set completely per the adhesive manufacturer's guidelines then remove the spacers.

Apply the Grout

17. Using latex gloves, spread the grout over the gaps in the tiles with a rubber float. Carefully pack every crevice to ensure a water-tight seal.

18. When the grout firms up, shape the grout joints with a rounded dowel or grouting tool, then wipe off the excess with a damp cloth.

19. Once the grout has fully dried, wipe the tiles and buff to a shine with a dry cloth.

20. Replace any electrical outlet and switch covers.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a tiled countertop, try finding subway tiles of the same width as your counter tiles. Line up the two first row of backsplash tiles with the counter tiles.