How To Articles


How To Install A Basic Backsplash

By: Walter Sanderson

Common mistakes:

  1. Insufficient quantity of tiles purchased (Even pros make mistakes and you need to allow for waste when making cuts according to desired pattern that is being laid).
  2. Insufficient quantity of grout purchased.
  3. Too much grout mixed at one time.
  4. Wrong color choice of grout.
  5. Wrong type of adhesive for application.
  6. Failure to purchase grout with additives for wet/moist environments.
  7. Failure to know when to call a professional.
         

Special Note: There are many different colors of grout to choose from, including some with additives or membranes that inhibit mold growth and prevent water damage.

Materials Required:

    Decorative Tile
    Acrylic Tile Mastic
    Grout
    Spacers
    Caulk





 Tools Required:

Tape Measure
Grout Float
Tile Cutter
V-Notch Trowel
Level
Caulk Gun
8O Grit Sandpaper
Sponge
Soft Cloth
Safety Glasses

Preparation for Installation


  1. Start by sanding the area to get it slightly rough to help the mastic bond.
  2. Locate and mark a vertical line through the exact center of the section.
  3. Clean up the area to make sure the area is free of dust and grease.

Installation Procedures


Special Note: If you will be using a diagonal pattern, you will need to pre-cut enough of the tiles to complete the bottom row above the countertop.


  1. Use tile mastic instead of thin set mortar. Tile mastic is used for vertical spacing.
  2. Use your V-notch trowel edge to scoop out some mastic with the edge and apply it with a sweeping motion to the previously prepared wall.
  3. Set the first tile piece, lining it up with the vertical line.
  4. Using your spacers, continue applying tiles to complete your desired pattern.
  5. You will need to carefully mark and cut tiles for corners, outlets or switches.
  6. Use molding, bullnose, or wood trim to finish off any open edges.
  7. Allow the tiles to dry at least 24 hours before attempting to add grout.
  8. Start mixing grout and only mix a small amount at a time to prevent waste.
  9. When applying the grout, make sure you pack it deep into the joints.  Do not grout next to the countertop and cabinets.
  10. After you are finished applying the grout, use your grout float tool to remove any excess.
  11. Carefully wipe the surface using a wet sponge and rinse frequently. However, wipe lightly, applying pressure will cause the sponge to remove grout from within the joints.
  12. Allow the grout to dry 48 to 72 hours (read the manufacturer’s directions) and then clean the tiles with a soft cloth.
  13. The final step is to caulk around the edges.


You now have a tile backsplash that is functional and decorative to your kitchen!








Author Bio:

This article was written by Walter Sanderson, founder of this website, STL Home Rehabbers.  He has more than 15 years experience in rehabbing and remodeling homes.  For more information about him, you can check out http://waltersanderson.stlhomerehabbers.com/.


Article Source:  http://www.stlhomerehabbers.com/



Terms of Service
STLHomeRehabbers.com reserves the right to modify these Terms of Service at any time without prior notice. These articles are free for public use if the following terms are abided by. By publishing articles listed on STLHomeRehabbers.com, you agree that: The entire article along with links and "About the Author" section will be left intact. No portion of the article body or title will be edited. Links will be left functional with no syntax changes (No rel="nofollow" tag in HREF statements). The article will not be published on any sites that contain unlawful, illegal or adult content. No article published on STLHomeRehabbers.com may be sold/traded. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use these articles.