Tile Backsplash Installation

Backsplash is an important part of kitchen interior that serves various purposes. Not only does it protect the kitchen wall from food spills, but it also adds beauty to the kitchen decor. Kitchen backsplashes come in large variety, that include, steel backsplash, ceramic tile backsplash, glass tile backsplash, granite backsplash, etc. Tiles have always been favorite option for both flooring and backsplash. They are very versatile and flexible in nature, since they come in large variety of shapes, sizes and colors. The installation may differ with every type of tile and this article will deal with installation of ceramic backsplash. Among all the tile backsplashes, ceramic tile backsplash is very popular backsplash for kitchen. It's their easy installation and low maintenance cost that makes these tiles all time favorite of everybody. A do-it-yourself project of tile backsplash installation, costs very less with very few equipment. So, are you thinking of installing ceramic tile backsplash in your kitchen? Then here are some general steps on installing tile backsplash.

How to Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash

Before you start the installation of the tile backsplash, you should be equipped with all the material required. Tiles, tile cutter, tile mastic, backerboard, grout filler, tile spacer, etc. are some of the equipment required. Ordering correct amount of tiles required for installation is very important step. For that you need to measure the area of the backsplash from top to bottom and also the horizontal area. You also need to decide the size of the tiles since tiles come in various sizes. For backsplashes you have tiles that measure, 4 by 4 inches, 6 by 6 inches and 3 and 4 inches. So, choose the size that will fulfill your requirements. It is always safe to order 10 percent more than the tiles requirements, since you may have to cut them while installation. Before you start with the installation, remove all the kitchen appliances and stove from the kitchen countertop. This will make your installation mess-free. Also remove any electric outlet cover and switch off the power. Here are general steps for installing tile backsplash.

Step #1
The very first thing that you need to do while installing tile backsplash is preparing the base for the tiles. If you have a painted drywall you can install the tiles right over it by sanding the surface. Uneven surfaces on the drywall, if any, should be fixed before tile installation. While if you have old tile backsplash, it needs to be removed completely. If the old tile backsplash was installed on backer board, you need to remove both of them and install a new backer board.

Step #2
To hold tiles of the lower row you can install ledger board. Once you install the backer board, find out the focal point or the center point of the backsplash and mark it. Then, draw perpendicular horizontal and vertical lines along this focal point.

Step #3
Start installing the tiles from the bottom row. First apply the tile mastic along the bottom row with help of a trowel. While placing the first tile, place it such that its vertical edge intersects with the central vertical line and leave a gap of 1/8 inches at the bottom. Press the tile gently into the mastic and place a 1/8 inches spacer. Install the next tile similar to the first, by working away from the central vertical line. You may need to cut the tiles while installing them near switch boards or water outlet. For cutting the tiles you can use a tile cutter bought at rent. After installation of all the tiles leave the mastic to dry overnight.

Step #4
Once the mastic dries overnight, it's time to apply the grout. It is recommended that you should use sand-less grout to avoid the scratching over the tiles. Prepare the grout by following the manufacturer's instructions and then apply it over the tiles with help of rubber float by removing the spacers.

Step #5
Leave the grout to set for an hour and then clean the tile surfaces with help of wet sponge. After cleaning the tiles, remove the ledger boards and apply tile caulk along the backsplash edges that meet the countertop.

These were some general steps on installing tile backsplash. You can take help of a professional to guide with tricks and steps on tile backsplash installation. It is recommended that if you have never tried installation of tiles by yourself you should hire a professional to avoid a fiasco.