This day-long DIY will add extra pizzazz to your kitchen.
Installing a backsplash is more than just a way to amp up your kitchen’s style.
We’ll show you how to cut, install, and grout ceramic tiles for a fresh kitchen finish.
Credit: Stacy Goldberg
Tile can be applied to drywall, butremove any wallpaperor loose paint.
Sand the wall of any imperfections, and for good adhesion, wipe away the dust.
Cut the sheets as needed, using a utility knife to cut the mesh from behind.
Credit: Adam Albright
Work out how you’ll handle any gap between the tile and the bottom of the wall cabinets.
Aim for a gap as close as possible to a half-tile.
Mark the location of the sheets with a pencil as you remove them.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Simply add the strip with thin-set mortar where you’d like your backsplash to end.
you might also choose toend your backsplash with bullnose tiles, which provide a rounded-edge treatment.
Bullnose tiles are installed once you’ve reached theendof your backsplash, not at the beginning.
Credit: Carson Downing
Apply Thin-Set
Tape a drop cloth to your countertop to protect the surface.
Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended trowel notch size (1/8-inch is common).
Using tile spacers, keep the joints between the sheets consistent.
Credit: Carson Downing
Once the sheet’s applied, pull it back to check for voids.
Apply more thin-set mortar as needed.
When tiling and grouting are complete, add a box extender.
Credit: Carson Downing
Because of the extra thickness of the tile, you might need longer screws.
Without spacers, your tile will likely be crooked.
Also, keep in mind that your walls might not be completely square.
Credit: Carson Downing
Smooth any uneven edges with a rubbing stone.
Check that all the tiles are set evenly.
Wipe off any excess thin-set mortar.
Credit: Carson Downing
Fill all voids between the tiles with grout.
There should be no holes, gaps, or air bubbles.
Seal Tile Grout
For easy maintenance down the road, apply grout sealer.
Credit: Carson Downing
It will reduce the likelihood of staining.
Caulk where the backsplash meets the upper cabinets to complete your tile installation.
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Carson Downing
