The area between your kitchen's cabinets and countertop is one of the ideal spots to update it. For a quick focal piece, tile a kitchen backsplash. To install a backsplash, you don't need to be an expert. With the right preparation, even intermediate DIYers can master the fundamentals of tiling a tile backsplash. The quickest and simplest method for installing a backsplash is to utilize pre-mixed grout, two-sided sticky mats, and tiling. You may install your tiling more quickly and precisely by using the sticky mat. You can design your kitchen to have the precise style and feel you desire by using tile. There are numerous alternatives available, from square tiles to subway tiles, and they come in a variety of colors. Since square tiles would be the simplest to cut and align, we advise beginners to start with them.
Easy Process Of Installing A Kitchen Tile Backsplash
One of the simplest and least expensive ways to update a dated, worn-out kitchen is to tile the backsplash above the counter. You can select from a wide variety of attractive ceramic tiles, including the simple-to-install one we've shown here—mosaic tiles. A fantastic backsplash is simple to achieve using mosaic tile sheets. The mesh backing of the sheets may be easily trimmed to suit the tile along counters and cabinets, making layout simple. Since the tiles come in a variety of sizes and materials, and many sheets include glass or metallic tiles built in for highlights, the hardest aspect of this or any tiling backsplash project may be deciding on the aesthetic.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Floor Tiles, Tape Measure & Pencil
- Grout, Dry Tile Cutter, Sandpaper Or Pumice Stone
- Wall Tile Mastic, Notched Trowel & Wide Putty Knife
- Tile Spacers, Squeegee Or Tile Float & Sponge
Step 1: Clean The Wall
Remove any grease splatters from the wall before installing the tile since grease prevents mastic from sticking to it.
- Use a sponge dipped in a solution of water and mild dishwashing solutions to remove the spots (like Dawn).
- If the stains are many or stubborn, apply a paint deglosser with a lint-free cloth or abrasive pad to make the surface more receptive to the mastic.
- Countertops and any upper cabinets that will have tile laid along the side should be covered with masking tape.
- Give the tile a 1/4-inch space between the wall and the tape. Use a drop cloth or newspaper to cover the countertops.
Step 2: Mark The Center Of The Wall
Mark the wall's middle. Add 1/4 inch for the bottom grout line to the gap between the countertop and the bottom of the cabinet. With this measurement, mark a tile.
Step 3: Cut The Tiles To Size
To cut the tiles to size, use a dry tile cutter. Place the tile in the cutter and make the necessary adjustments. The machine actually snaps the tile at the score line by scoring the tile first and then pressing the bar down (be sure to purchase some extra tile in case of mistakes). With sandpaper or a pumice stone, smooth off any sharp edges after measuring the tile size against the wall.
Step 4: Apply Tile Mastic To Attach One Tile To The Wall
Apply just enough tile mastic to the wall, starting in the center, with a putty knife. To create a surface that will promote effective adhesion, texture it with a notched trowel. Before allowing it to settle into its ultimate position, place the tile in place and move it around a little. Tile spacers should be used between the tiles and along the bottom for the grout lines as you continue working in both directions.
Step 5: Allow The Mastic To Cure & Remove Tile Spacers
Remove the tile spacers when the mastic has had time to set (typically overnight). Use a squeegee or tile float to fill up the spaces between the tiles after mixing the grout as instructed. Allow the grout to dry overnight before following the instructions to remove any excess with a sponge and water.