How to Lay Backsplash Tiles

Backsplash tiles add both syle and functionality to your kitchen. Providing an easy to clean and maintain area just above your counter tops, a tile backsplash is simple to wipe clean with a damp sponge. In addition, a tile backsplash can add a subtle or dramatic splash of color, pattern and texture to your kitchen. You can add a tile backsplash to your kitchen in about a day's time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tiles
• Tile snips
• Electric sander and sandpaper
• Mortar
• Bucket for mixing mortar
• Grout
• Small trowel
• Pitty Knife
• Clear tile sealer

How to Lay Backsplash Tiles

1. Measure the area for your backsplash and figure the number of tiles you will need. This will vary depending on the size of the tiles you choose.

2. Sand the area to be tiled with an electric sander. Brush away the excess dust from sanding with a damp cloth or a clean paintbrush.

3. 
   Laying a tile backsplash is a do-it-yourself project you can complete in about a day's time.

   Mix the mortar in your bucket according to package instructions. Spread a layer of mortar onto the wall about 1/3 inch in thickness.

4. Lay the backsplash tile to the mortar. Hold each tile in place for about 30 seconds or until it adheres to the mortar. Snip the tiles with your tile snips if they need to be trimmed. This is likely to happen with one or two of the very last tiles installed, but may not happen at all based on the size of the backsplash and the size of each tile.

5. Apply grout between the tiles. Wipe away the excess grout with a damp sponge. Apply a sealer coat with a paint brush. Allow the tiled backsplash to dry for about 12 hours before touching it.

References

• HGTV
• Remodeling My Space.com

[jull14]

on 7/9/2009 Excellent article, thanks for sharing this important information for many of us. Very easy to follow. Keep up the good work.