DIY – Tiling your own kitchen backsplash

The kitchen backsplash is the unsung hero of every amazing kitchen.

It’s usually the last part of any kitchen renovation, and I find it really completes the kitchen. If left undone it’s kind of like having a finished bathroom, but no mirror!

One of the simplest tiles to use is the subway tile. It’s timeless, goes with almost any countertops and cabinets, and simple to install. Here we used 4×12 white subway tile. The same installation process will work for any subway tile size you choose.

I said simple right, not easy… The video above gives you my secrets to make it easy. After tiling numerous backsplashes for each of our kitchen renovations I show you step by step how you can tile your kitchen backsplash like a pro.

List of Tools & Materials: – Sigma tile cutter – Milwaukee grinder w/ diamond blade – Task 5′ 3″ to 10′ telescopic pole – DeWalt laser level – Olfa knife – Milwaukee drill – Electrical Tape – Pica-dry tile pencil – DeWalt 7″ carpenter square – OMNI Grip tile adhesive – 1/4 x 3/8 square notch trowel – Rubi tile shims and 1/16 tile spacers – Painters tape – No.6 1″ 1/4 machine screws – 2 buckets – Mapei Ultra Colour Plus FA grout – Honeywell silicone half mask – Grout float and sponge – ALLPRO caulking gun – NuFlex translucent silicone.

Let’s break it down into several key points for tiling a kitchen backsplash.

1. Preparing the Surface
2. Measuring and Planning the Layout
3. Cutting and Installing Tiles
4. Grouting and Finishing

1. Preparing the Surface

Preparing the surface is a crucial step in tiling a kitchen backsplash, as it ensures that your tiles adhere properly and have a smooth, lasting finish. Start by cleaning the wall thoroughly to remove any grease, dirt, or old adhesive. This is important because any residue can prevent the adhesive from bonding properly.

Next, inspect the wall for any imperfections such as holes, cracks, or uneven areas. Fill any holes or cracks with a suitable wall filler or joint compound. For larger gaps or significant imperfections, you may need to use a patching compound and sand it smooth once dry. Ensure the wall is completely dry and smooth before proceeding. If the wall surface is particularly porous or has been freshly painted, consider applying a primer to create a more stable surface for the adhesive. In my video, the kitchen is brand new, in a newly built home. My prep was simple because the walls were straight and the drywall already primed.

For the best results, use a level or a straightedge to check for any significant unevenness. If necessary, apply a thin layer of patching compound to create a flat surface.

Finally, ensure that any electrical outlets or fixtures are properly removed as needed to avoid interference with your tiling process. Proper preparation is essential for a professional-looking finish and ensures the longevity and durability of your backsplash.

2. Measuring and Planning the Layout

Accurate measurement and planning are key to a successful tile installation. Begin by measuring the area you intend to tile, including the height and width. It’s helpful to use a tape measure and mark these dimensions on the wall with a pencil. Establish a reference line at the center of the area to help align your tiles symmetrically. This reference line will act as a guide and help you ensure that your tiles are evenly spaced and centered.

Decide on the layout pattern for your tiles – whether you prefer a traditional grid pattern, a diagonal arrangement, or a more intricate design. Lay out the tiles on a flat surface, such as a table or floor, to visualize how they will fit together. This “dry layout” helps you identify any potential issues, such as awkward cuts or uneven tile sizes. Adjust the pattern if necessary to achieve a balanced and visually appealing result.

As you see in the video – check out the tile size and grout spacing during planning. Use tile spacers to maintain consistent gaps between tiles. Mark these cuts clearly and make sure they’re evenly distributed to maintain a cohesive look. Planning and measuring carefully will help avoid having really small tiles up against walls or obstacles. Aim to have all cut pieces 1.5” or bigger if you can.

3. Cutting and Installing Tiles

Begin by applying the adhesive to the prepared wall surface using a notched trowel. Spread the adhesive evenly, working in small sections to prevent it from drying out before you place the tiles. The notched side of the trowel creates grooves in the adhesive, which helps the tiles adhere better.

If this is your first installation, you may want to just trowel each tile right before you place it on the wall. I have done that in the video to show how it is done.

Place the first tile at the center reference line you established earlier, pressing it firmly into the adhesive. Use tile spacers to maintain consistent gaps between tiles, and continue placing tiles in the pattern you planned. For tiles near edges or corners, you will likely need to make cuts. Measure the space carefully and use a tile cutter or a grinder to make precise cuts. For intricate cuts around fixtures or irregular shapes, a tile grinder with a diamond blade will be the best tool.

Ensure that the tiles are level and adjust them as needed before the adhesive sets. You’ll need to make corrections while the adhesive is still wet. If you run into any issues with tile placement, such as lippage (when one tile sits higher than another) or uneven gaps, address them immediately. You can address this by adding more tile mortar under the edge or pressing the higher tile deeper into the mortar.
Once the tiles are set, allow the adhesive to cure before grouting.

4. Grouting and Finishing

Grouting is the final step in the tiling process and is essential for a polished and complete look. Begin by preparing the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Mix it to a smooth, peanut butter-like consistency, ensuring there are no lumps. Allow the grout to sit for a few minutes before applying it to the tiles.

Using a rubber grout float, apply the grout diagonally across the tiles, pressing it firmly into the gaps between them. Work in small sections to ensure the grout does not dry before you’ve had a chance to clean it off. Make sure to fill all the gaps completely, wiping off excess grout from the tile surfaces as you go. After the grout has been applied, use a damp sponge to clean the tile surfaces and remove any residual grout. Rinse the sponge frequently and change the water regularly to prevent haze from forming.

Allow the grout to set for about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Once the grout has set but is not fully hardened, use a clean, dry cloth to buff off any remaining grout haze from the tile surfaces. For a final touch, apply a grout sealer once the grout has fully cured, typically after 24 to 48 hours. The sealer helps protect the grout from stains and moisture, extending its longevity. Finally, reattach any outlet covers or fixtures that were removed, and clean up the workspace. A well-grouted backsplash not only enhances the appearance of your kitchen but also ensures durability and ease of maintenance.