How to Install a Tile Backsplash in the Kitchen
When remodelling a kitchen, there are all kinds of jobs that need tackling, from installing cabinets and countertops to painting and touching up the walls, many of which require professional assistance.
However, if you’re planning on re-doing your kitchen backsplash, this is a task you can easily accomplish yourself with tiles, the right tools, and a few hours to kill. However, before you get started, you need to learn how to tile a backsplash by yourself.
Thankfully, practically anyone can handle this relatively simple, straightforward task.
Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about tiling a DIY backsplash. You can also click the following link for dark backsplash designs that pair well with light countertops: https://www.caesarstone.ca/blog/backsplash-ideas-for-dark-cabinets-and-light-countertops-2022/.
How to install backsplash tiles in your kitchen: A step-by-step guide
Installing a backsplash is a fairly manageable task for most homeowners, especially for those that have some prior DIY experience.
That being said, if you’ve never handled grout and tile before, learning how to tile a backsplash for your kitchen by yourself may seem a little daunting.
However, it’s a fairly straightforward job that only requires a few essential home improvement tools, some of which you likely have in your home, though you can always enlist the help of an experienced DIY-er if needed.
By following a few steps, you can design and install the perfect backsplash for your kitchen style and colour palette.
Below we’ve detailed the materials and equipment you’ll need for this project, along with detailed instructions on how to install a tile backsplash in your home:
Equipment needed
Here’s a quick list of the equipment you’ll need if you want to install a tile backsplash:
- Caulk gun
- Grout float
- Cordless drill
- Self-centring drill bit
- Wet saw
- Putty knife
Materials needed
You’ll want to purchase the following materials before installing your new backsplash:
- Caulk
- Grout
- Grout sealer
- Spacers
- Notched trowel
- Sponge
- Rag
- Bucket
Instructions
Be sure to follow these steps if you’re planning on installing a tile backsplash in your kitchen:
Step 1: Switch off the power to the wall outlets
Before beginning any construction on this project, make sure to turn off the power running through your wall and remove the switch plates and outlet covers.
This will prevent any electrical issues from occurring while applying the tile or you from getting a shock or injury and is a necessary step.
Step 2: Clean the backsplash wall area
Once the power is disconnected, clean the wall to remove any food or liquid marks using a sponge and liquid dish soap.
If your kitchen has wallpaper or any loose paint, make sure to remove any residual paint or paper in the area where you’ll be applying the tile to ensure the tile sticks to the wall properly.
After cleaning, sand the walls to remove any imperfections (which will help the adhesive to stick) and wipe off the residual dust.
Step 3: Plan the tile layout and draw a centre line
Now that the wall is clean, you can begin planning your layout!
Take your time to arrange your tiles in different patterns and styles to ensure you like the look you’ve chosen. Once you have the design you like, use painter’s tape to attach your tiles to the wall to double-check the layout and make reference marks.
Cut your ceramic tiles with the wet saw and use a knife to cut the mesh area from behind. Next, create the gap in between the tile and your upper cabinets (no larger than a half-tile) and mark it with a pencil.
Step 4: Apply a thin coat of adhesive
Once you’ve chosen your tile arrangement, you begin applying the tile adhesive, making sure only to apply a thin coat.
Spread the adhesive using a notched trowel, and keep a sponge and bucket of water nearby to clean it off whenever the mastic adhesive begins to harden.
Step 5: Add the tiles and tile spacers
Once the mastic adhesive has been spread on the wall, you can begin attaching your tile pieces, making sure to follow your reference marks for a more accurate layout (the mastic should be thin enough that you can see them).
While you apply the tiles, make sure to add tile spacers as you go to make sure the tiles are properly aligned along the wall vertically and horizontally. Note that you may have to cut some tiles to fit in the space properly if your walls aren’t perfectly square.
Step 6: Install the final row of tiles
Using a wet saw, once you reach the final row of tiles, cut them to fit the space properly and then use a rubbing stone to smooth out the edges.
Step 7: Set the tiles
Now that all the tiles have been applied to the adhesive use a grout float or your hands to press them into the wall and ensure that each tile has been set evenly.
If there is any excess mortar, make sure to wipe it off before leaving the tiles to set. This will usually take about 12 hours.
Step 8: Apply grout
Once 12 hours have passed, begin the mix for your grout. Using a float, apply the grout to all the inner joints. Fill every space thoroughly so that there are no gaps, holes or air bubbles present.
Step 9: Wipe clean and dry
Once you’ve finished applying the grout, use a damp sponge to clean the entire surface of your backsplash to remove any excess grout from the tiles.
After the grout has had a chance to dry, go over the surface with a clean, dry cloth to remove any hazy residue from the surface of the tiles.
Step 10: Seal tile grout
Finally, once the backsplash has thoroughly set, dried, and been cleaned, it’s time to seal the grout. While this is an optional step, this move will reduce the chance of staining, which is ideal for a stove backsplash where food and oil stains are easily sustained.
After applying the sealant, caulk the area of the backsplash that meets your upper cabinets, and your installation will be complete!
Conclusion: How to tile a backsplash
Installing your own kitchen backsplash may seem intimidating, but it can be easily done by following the steps outlined above!
Before attempting the installation, check the list of tools and materials above to ensure you have everything you need. As well, make sure to closely adhere to the safety measures outlined for turning off the power to prevent any electrical issues or injuries from occurring.
Overall, this project is straightforward and simple both for experienced DIY-ers and those new to the home improvement niche. Get your tools together and get started on your backsplash tile installation!
