Installing a Tile Backsplash

Choosing Tile

Good aesthetics demand that a tile backsplash be matched well with the countertop. That the countertop does not already have a tile backsplash suggests that the countertop is made of solid granite or wood, but it is possible that a cheap job was done with a tile countertop, or the existing backsplash was damaged. Careful shopping will be necessary to match the existing countertop or to come up with a tile choice that does not clash with it.

Tile Cutting

Even for a modest, one-row backsplash, some cutting of tile will be necessary to make for a perfect fit across the back edge of the countertop. Cutting tile is easy but requires a tile saw as well as a power sander for polishing rough cuts.

Prepare the Wall

The first step for laying a tile backsplash is to clean the wall. The wall should be smooth and free of particulate matter, so dusting is absolutely necessary. If the wall has irregularities--such as holes, dents or protrusions--these must be filled with spackling paste or cut away. If the wall has oil splotches on it, these should be scrubbed off.

Mark the snapping or guide lines for the tile. For a one-row backsplash, this is easy: using a tape measure and a level, trace a line marking where the top of the backsplash will be straight across the wall. A bigger backsplash, requires a grid pattern. The rows and columns should be the width of the tile plus double the width of the spacer (one spacer for each side).

Laying Tile

Laying tile for a one-row backsplash uses the same mortar as a normal tile job, but a larger wall area requires wall tile adhesive. Start with a 3 foot square area in the center bottom. Spread the mortar/adhesive on the drywall with a notched hand trowel. Press a tile into the mortar/adhesive, give it a little twist to ensure good contact and then set it into a good, level alignment. Repeat this for each tile. When the first work area has been finished, do another the same way, and keep repeating until the wall is finished. Let the mortar/adhesive set overnight.

Grouting

After laying the tile, grout them by using a grout float to push the grout down into the seams. Then wipe away any excess grout and residue with a damp sponge. After the grout has been left overnight to dry, clean any leftover grout bits or residue with a 50-50 mix of water and vinegar, and then apply a good sealant to the grout to keep it from being stained by kitchen grime.