How to Install Ceramic Trim on Backsplash
Ceramic trim is simply ceramic tile that's shaped into thin, narrow pieces, often with patterns stamped into the surface. The pieces are installed end to end around spans of regular field tile to create a decorative border. The ceramic trim is installed in essentially the same way as regular tile, except the smaller size of the work area makes it necessary to apply the adhesive to the tiles rather than to the wall. Also, a full-sized grout trowel will be difficult to use; raid the kitchen drawer for a rubber spatula. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pencil
- Painter's tape
- Detail sander
- Putty knife (width no wider than the ceramic trim)
- Tile adhesive
- Tile cutter
- Pre-mixed grout
- Rubber spatula
- Sponge
Instructions
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1
With your tape measure, level and pencil, mark a border line around your existing tile backsplash, making a space the width of the ceramic trim. Lay a line of painter's tape outside the line to protect the surrounding wall.
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2
Use your detail sander to buff the wall within the marked space, getting it free of any paint, grime or gloss.
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3
``Butter'' the back of your first ceramic trim piece with tile adhesive, using your putty knife. Set it into place along the top span of the backsplash, leaving space between the side of the trim and the backsplash. Visually judge how wide the space should be, based on the backsplash design and the trim size.
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4
Repeat the process for each of the other pieces of trim until the whole border is in. Cut the end pieces as necessary with a tile cutter. Let the pieces set overnight.
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5
With your rubber spatula, apply your pre-mixed grout to the lines between the ceramic trim and the backsplash. Press the grout into the lines while swiping it off the tile surface. Wipe off the excess with a damp sponge. Pull off the painter's tape. Allow the grout to set at least two days before resuming normal use of the area.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear eye protection when cutting tile.
