How to Install a Kitchen Tile Backsplash

Before you start installing the kitchen tile backsplash, you should plan everything. Start by measuring the area where you intend to install the backsplash and purchase the tile needed. Most people tend to prefer subway tiles, which vary in area. You can choose 1 by 1 square tiles with a mesh at the back. Make sure that you are buying glazed tiles because tiles which are not glazed will become dull with grease stains. Add an extra 10 percent to the supply of tiles your purchase in case some are broken by mistake.

Step 1 – Clearing the Area

Clear the surface area of all appliances and other items. Make sure you remember to deactivate the electrical power supplied to all switches and outlets within the kitchen and remember also to take away the stove, the range hood and the cover plates.

Step 2 – Installing the Backerboard

Install your backerboard with screws and leave a space of approximately 1/8 inch at the sides. Finish the backerboard installation by covering it with some mesh tape and filler compound. If you have gaps in the wall and the tiles will run over these gaps, install a temporary ledger board along the bottom edge of the tiles so that it will help the tiles stay in place during the installation process.

Step 3 – Preparing the Tiles

Lay down the tiles over the kitchen countertop and make sure that you follow the pattern so that the tiles match with one another. Use a pencil and a level to mark the focal point over the layout with a plumb line. Remember that you will use this line as a guideline to install your kitchen tile backsplash correctly.

Step 4 – Installing the Tiles

Start from the center of the bottom row to install the tiles for your backsplash. You can choose to apply tile mastic or thinset mortar. Use a grooved trowel to apply the mortar or mastic and only to a small part of the kitchen wall every time. Place the first tile and leave a gap of about 1/8 inch along the lower edge for caulking. Keep on installing the other tiles in the same manner, starting from the centerline in every row.

Step 5 – Cutting the Tiles

If you ever need to cut the tiles to fit in place, try using a scoring cutter. This is a tool which you can rent for about $15 a day or you can purchase for a price of about $50. Mark a line over the tile as a guideline so that you will know where you want to cut. Put the tile through the cutter and cut it to your desired size.

Step 6 – Applying the Grout

Finish the kitchen backsplash installation by applying the grout. But first you will need to let the mastic dry overnight. Use a rubber float to apply the grout and press it into the spaces between your tiles. Turn the float at an angle of 45 degrees to remove any excess grout. Let the grout dry thoroughly for about 1 hour and finally use a sponge to rinse the tiles with clean water.