How to Tile Backsplash

A backsplash is like jewelry for your kitchen. The look just isn’t complete without it! If you’ve outgrown your old style or are starting with a blank slate, it’s time to try your hand at tiling! Tile your DIY backsplash with the help of our Project Centre and give your kitchen a facelift.

Author: Kent Building Supplies

For This Project You Will Need:

Choose Your Tile

The first thing you want to do is decide what type of tile you are going to use to create your backsplash. No matter which tile you choose to install, the steps will all be relatively similar. If this is your first time installing tile, we recommend you go with a smaller subway tile, or something around that size. Browse the tile options below that KENT has to offer!

TIP

You will need to determine how much tile you need for your square footage. It is a good idea to purchase an extra 10% more tile in case you make any cutting mistakes. Having extra tiles on hand will also come in handy if you ever need to replace any in the future.

Porcelain Mosaic Tile

Starting at
$229.35
Daltile
3X6 Vitruvian Glossy Wall Tile 10.12 Sqft-80/Pieces

Starting at
$12.16
MSI Stone
12"x12" Dove Gray Herringbone Mosaic Tile 10 PC/9.9 SqFt/Box
$40.18
Ready to Ship

0 at
Home Products Source
8mm Santorini Glass & Stone Mosaic Tile 11 PC/11 Sq-ft/Box
$22.38
Ready to Ship

0 at
Home Products Source
8 mm Arctic Glass and Stone Mosaic Tile 11.00 Sq-Ft/Box
$24.18
Ready to Ship

0 at
Home Products Source
8mm Baja Glass & Stone Mosaic Tile 11 PC/ 11 Sq-Ft/Box
$24.18
Ready to Ship

0 at
Anatolia Tile & Stone
2"x6" Earth Bliss Element Brick Mosaic Tile 10PC/10 SqFt/Box
$137.50
Ready to Ship

88 Available for pick up at
Anatolia Tile & Stone
5/8"x5/8"x12" Venatino Glass Stone Mosaics 10 Sq-ft/Box
Regular Price
$179.90
Special Price
$35.98
Ready to Ship

0 at
Daltile
4 x 16 Vitruvian Glossy Wall Tile 14.64 Sq Ft/Box

Starting at
$22.44
$6\" x 2\" Element Brick Mosaic$

Anatolia Tile & Stone
2"x 6" Element Brick Mosaic 10 Sq-ft/Box

Starting at
$129.90
$12\" x 12\" Zen Flat Mosaic$

Anatolia Tile & Stone
12" x 12" Zen Flat Mosaic

Starting at
$17.98
Anatolia Tile & Stone
12"x24" Volakas Grigio Mayfair Porcelain Tile 15.5 Sq-Ft/Box
$64.95
Ready to Ship

64 Available for pick up at

Prep Your Space

Cover your kitchen counter with a plastic sheet to protect it from any tile adhesive or grout. You will also want to turn off power to the room and disconnect any appliances in the area. Be sure to remove any outlet covers.

Remove any existing wallpaper or tile, and you can patch repair your drywall if there are any rough or uneven spots. Any bumps on your wall will lead to uneven tile, so it is important to ensure you are working with a smooth surface.

Now you need to determine where you are going to start your tile. A good tip is to start at the focal point of your wall, as this will look the most natural regardless of the layout. Pre-lay your tile to determine where spots for outlets and edges will need cutting.

Tile Installation

First, you want to mix your tile adhesive. For most tile types such as glass and stone, mortar is the best choice for tile adhesive. However, if you decide to go with ceramic tiles, you should use mastic, which is a premixed tile adhesive made specially for premium ceramic tiles.

Once you have your tile adhesive ready to go, spread it on the wall evenly using your trowel. You can also use a technique called “back buttering” by spreading the adhesive onto the back of each individual tile, then placing it on the wall. This technique will strengthen the bond between the mortar and the back of the tile, but it is not required.

Now you’re ready to start placing your tiles on the wall! Start by placing your tiles on the bottom of the wall where it meets your counter. It’s important that you use spacers in between each tile to ensure there is an even gap. Continue placing your tiles using spacers, until your desired area is covered. You can also go over the tiles with a grout float to ensure that everything is even. Once your tiles are all placed, let them sit for at least 24 hours to let the mortar dry.

Applying Your Grout

Once your mortar has had enough time to dry, you can start applying your grout. First, remove all the spacers from in-between your tiles. You should also clean your tiles with a damp sponge before applying your grout.

If you are mixing your own grout, you should be aiming for a pudding-like consistency. If you are buying it pre-mixed, all you need to do is open up the bucket and start applying it!

Using a grout float, apply it evenly between the spaces of your tile, working with smaller sections at a time. Use a damp sponge to clean up the tiles.

Enjoy Your New Backsplash!

After the grout has set, give your tiles a final polish with your damp sponge to clear any remaining grout haze. Apply a thin line of latex caulking where your tile meets the counter for a seamless finish.

Once your tile backsplash is complete, this would be the time to install any outlet extenders if you need them. Replace your outlet covers and turn the power back on.

That's all it takes to have a beautiful tiled backsplash! Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your kitchen's new style.