How to Install Ceramic Tile Backsplash

A ceramic tile backsplash can give your kitchen a punch of excitement. Because families spend a good deal of time in the kitchen, a backsplash can make the time spent more enjoyable. Installing a backsplash is not hard to accomplish. With the right tools, you can complete the installation yourself and save money in the process.

Step 1:  Clean Walls

Kitchen walls often have grease and pieces of food stuck on them. Before installing any tile, use a degreaser to clean the walls thoroughly. Rinse away any residue left from the degreaser, and let the walls dry.

Step 2:  Measure

Use the measuring tape to measure the backsplash. Always measure twice. Write down the measurements.

Step 3:  Determine Layout

Use the backsplash measurements to determine the placement of the tile. You can use a counter, table or the floor. Just be sure that you have enough room to lay out the entire design. Be creative in your placement of the tile. Do not forget to include the tile spacers in the layout, or your cuts will be off. Once you have decided on the tile placement, use a pencil to mark any necessary cuts.

Step 4:  Cut Tiles

Put on your safety goggles and gloves. Use the tile saw to cut your tiles according to the marks you made when you laid out your design. For small or curved cuts, use the tile nippers to chip away at the tile until the shape is correct.

Step 5:  Install Tile

Mix the thinset mortar in a mixing bucket following the manufacturer’s directions. Take a notched trowel and spread the mortar over the backsplash. Apply the mortar evenly working in 2-foot sections. For corners where it is difficult to apply mortar, apply the mortar to the back of the tile instead. Press each tile firmly in place. Place tile spacers between each tile on every side for even grout lines. Wipe off any mortar stuck to the tiles or in the grout lines using dampened rags. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the mortar drying time.

Step 6:  Grout Tile

When the mortar is dry, remove all tile spacers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the grout. Apply the grout between each tile using a grout float held at a 45-degree angle with the tile. When finished, clean all excess grout from the tiles with a wet grout sponge. Clean the tiles several times to remove all excess grout and allow the grout to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 7:  Clean Again

When the grout is dry, use dampened rags to clean the tile again. Dry the tile with clean rags. Finally, use cheesecloth to remove any fine particles from the tile.

A ceramic tile backsplash adds not only beauty to your kitchen, but it adds value to your home also. Get started on this project today for more exciting kitchen tomorrow.