Easiest Way to Put Up Tile Backsplash

Tiling a backsplash yourself really isn't all that hard.

Even the plainest kitchens can come alive with a tile backsplash. Backsplashes are practical and add color and design to a kitchen. Tiles come in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes. You will enjoy being creative once you see the abundance of tile choices at your fingertips.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• 80-grit sandpaper
• Clean rags
• Level
• Pencil
• Thinset
• V-shaped notched trowel
• Spacers
• Needle-nose pliers
• Grouting tool
• Grout
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Caulk

Instructions

1. Remove switch plates and outlet covers with a screwdriver. Depending on the length of the original screw, you may need to purchase longer screws to compensate for the added depth of the tile.

2. Sand the wall with 80-grit sandpaper if the wall is painted. This will rough up the surface and ensure that the thinset you apply later will get a good grip on the wall. Wipe off the dust with a damp rag.

3. Measure and mark a starter guideline for the first row of tile. Use a level to make certain the line in straight. Getting the first row of tile straight is crucial to the outcome of the project.

4. Apply thinset to the wall, using a notched V-shaped trowel. Apply only enough thinset for about eight tiles. Thinset that forms a skin on top needs to be removed, and fresh thinset must be applied. Purchase thinset, also called mastic, at a home-improvement center, and follow the instructions for application.

5. Firmly press the first row of tiles along the guideline, and separate the tiles with spacers. Spacers are set at the corners of the tile and ensure that every tile will be uniform.

6. Finish setting all the tiles in place, and allow the thinset to dry overnight. Remove the spacers with needle-nose pliers, starting with the first-placed spacers.

7. Mix grout in a bucket according to the directions for the brand you have chosen. Use a rubber grouting tool to spread the grout across the tile. Make certain that all the grout lines are filled. Do not push grout into the top and bottom seams. These lines will be filled with caulk.

8. Wipe the entire surface with a damp sponge. Rinse the sponge often while you clean the grout. Be careful not to pull grout from the grout lines.

9. Allow the surface to dry for 45 minutes or until there is a hazy film over the tiles. Use a clean, dry cloth to remove the haze and polish the tiles to their original look.

10. Apply a bead of caulk between the tile and the countertop and cupboards. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger to blend the caulk with the tile.

11. Return the switch plates and covers to the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• Cut tiles to fit with a tile cutting tool. Mark the tile, and use the machine to score and snap it apart at the score line.

• Use tile clippers to clip notches in the tile.

• Lay the tile design out on the floor or other surface to ensure a steady working pace while you set the tiles.

References

• "This Old House": How to Install a Tile Backsplash
• Ask the Builder: Ceramic Tile Patterns