How to Set a Tile Backsplash
There are many design possibilities when creating a tile backsplash behind a sink. How the tiles are chosen and put in place depends on the type of countertop with which they will be matched, the surface on which the tiles will be mounted and the decor of the room. With so many options to choose from, tiling a backsplash can be an enjoyable adventure that almost anyone can complete. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Vitreous or semi-vitreous glazed tile
- Backer board*
- 8d galvanized nails (nails about 2.5 inches long)*
- Latex adhesive
- Notched trowel
- Plastic tile spacers
- Hammer
- Beating block
- Grout
- Grout float
- Caulk
- Grout sealer
- *Required only if creating a built-up backsplash
Instructions
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1
Choose your backsplash design based on the countertop plan and select materials that can stand up to water and, if applicable, the stresses of a kitchen.
See the tips section for options. -
2
Install backer board on the wall if necessary using the 8d galvanized nails. The nails should be spaced 8 inches apart from center to center, so the number of nails you will need depends on the length of your backsplash. Use galvanized nails because they are more water-resistant. Countersink the nails to ensure a flat surface for the adhesive. If you are not creating a radius bullnose backsplash you can skip this step.
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3
Spread the thin-set mortar according to the manufacturer's directions using the notched trowel. The adhesive will need time to set; check the packaging, as time may vary among products.
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4
Set the tiles according to your design. Use plastic spacers between the tiles to ensure that the grout joints will be even, and set the tiles above any countertop tiles by the width of a grout joint. Make sure the grout joints will line up with any tiles on the countertop if applicable. Trim the backsplash if it is built out from the wall by using radius bullnose tiles.
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5
Bed the tiles by using a foam-rubber wrapped 2-by-4 beating block and a hammer. Place the beating block on the tiles and gently tap it with the hammer. Remove any adhesive from the grout joints. Let the tile set for at least 24 hours.
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6
Apply grout between the backsplash tiles. Do not use grout between the backsplash and the countertop. This should be caulked. Wipe away the excess grout and let the grout cure.
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7
Apply caulk where the counter and backsplash meet.
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8
Wipe away any grout "haze" on the tile with a damp cloth.
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9
Apply grout sealer to the grout lines between the tiles.
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Tips & Warnings
There are three general designs for creating a tile backsplash: a surface bullnose, a cove tile, and a radius bullnose. A surface bullnose simply affixes the tile to the wall behind the countertop, while a radius bullnose uses a water-resistant backer board to extend the backsplash away from the wall. The radius bullnose refers to the right-angle tile that lies atop the backer board and extends downward to connect to the backsplash. The cove tile is frequently used to connect the backsplash to a tile countertop, although each of the designs can be used for this purpose. Cove tile is the easiest to keep clean because there are no gaps where water or waste can accumulate.
Tile glaze will limit staining while the "vitreousness" refers to the tile's ability to withstand water penetration. Semivitreous tiles are acceptable for a backsplash. Ceramic tiles are more expensive than clay tiles, but are more waterproof.
