Adding a tile backsplash to your kitchen adds value and beauty to your kitchen, And is a very easy project which can be done over a weekend, and is not very expensive to do.

  • 1st Measure the area that you want to install the backsplash, be sure to include the area behind the stove.
  • 2nd pick up a few samples at a local hardware store of the materials and patterns you are interested in. (Most stores will allow you to borrow samples or purchase them and give you a refund if you decide that you don’t like them.)
  • 3rd Set aside at least 2 days that you will have several hours each day to work on this project.

You will need the following materials:

  • Tile
  • Adhesive (Tile adhesive or liquid nails)
  • Tile Spacers
  • Grout (You will need to select a color)
  • Sealer (Clear)
  • Tile install kit (Usually comes with sponge, bucket, trowel, glue spreader)
  • Tile saw or cutter
Step 1
Step 1
  • Never apply more adhesive that you will be able to install tile to before the glue dries, you may want to pre-cut small tiles or around plug outlets prior to applying glue
  • Always line up your first set of tiles ¼” inside the cabinet line as shown below:
Step 2

This will allow room for grout at end of tiles so that the edge will not be seen.

  • Apply adhesive or liquid nails to the wall in area that you will be able to cover
  • You can use the small tile spacers to hold the tile ¼” above the existing countertop
  • And then install them between each tile to ensure that the gaps are the same size
  • See below for a sample
Step 3

Now that you have the first couple of tile in place, press them firmly and evenly against the adhesive

  • Continue to install the tile with the ¼” spacer installed between each tile and work your way across and up the area to be covered. Leave all tile that needs to be cut to a smaller size until last.
  • The tile spacers will only stay in place until the glue sets (The next day)
  • Then remove the tile spacers and discard them
  • You are now ready to mix the grout (Pre-Colored) Read the mixing and application directions on the package
  • Install the grout using the flexible trowel pressing the grout into every gap with pressure
  • After covering all grout gaps wipe of excess grout with damp cloth or sponge
  • Do not attempt to clean the haze off of the tile until it has set for 24 hours
  • Then use grout haze remover or a coarse sponge to remove the grout and clean the tile
  • This step may require multiple cleanings as the tile grout dries completely
  • You are now ready to seal your tile grout to prevent discoloration and staining
  • Wait 24 hours between sealer coats or applications so that it will dry completely

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