6 Steps to Installing a Tile Backsplash in Your Kitchen

Home Improvement Project: 6 Steps to Installing a Tile Backsplash in Your Kitchen

Are you tired of the dull the wall space between your counters & upper in the kitchen? Here are 6 Steps to Installing a Tile Backsplash in Your Kitchen.

Why add a kitchen backsplash? It will convert the dull wall space between your counters and upper cabinet to an attention-grabber. When you see any well-designed kitchen, your attention will likely be drawn to the finely custom cabinetry or shiny appliances. You’ll probably do not even notice the kitchen’s backsplash.

In the design of a kitchen, rarely is enough care is given to the narrow strip of wall that runs between the counters and upper cabinets. The backsplash is usually just painted a neutral color and forgotten about.

If only we knew how easy a backsplash could be if you install it yourself! It just a few boxes of tile and a free weekend to bring this seemingly dead space to life.

For visual interest, including decorative field tiles and fanciful border tiles will result in an attractive, easy-to-clean surface that enhances the overall look and functionality of the kitchen. There are many options, such as an array of beautiful ceramic tiles, mosaics on a mesh backing, or peel-and-stick tile.

Prepare the Walls

Measure your wall to determine the amount of tile you will need.
Clean the wall thoroughly with the mild soap to remove any grease or other debris. Glossy painted walls can be wiped down with tri-sodium phosphate and sanded gently.
Turn off power to the kitchen, remove outlet, and switchplates covers in the backsplash area.
Tape off outlets, cabinets, countertops, and any other surface you do not was to tile.
Move freestanding appliances away from the walls, such as the stove.
Cover the countertops with a drop cloth.
Patch any holes you find with spackling compound and sand in the backsplash area to a smooth surface.
Attach a sturdy piece of lumber for support.

Plan Layout

Mark the two sides of the wall using the painter’s tape where the backsplash should start and stop.
Find the center of the wall for your tile design selection and mark a vertical line.
If using mesh backing tile, lay tiles on the countertop along the wall using spacers to check the ends.

Spread Adhesive

To prepare the mortar for natural stone and mosaic tile according to directions.
Begin with a 2-foot section to spread a thin layer of adhesive on the wall, starting at the centerline.
If using Peel-and-stick tile, adhesive mats are also available that bond instantly to wall surfaces. Then pressed firmly with a grout float, which allows you to tile and grout the same day, replacing traditional thin-set and simplifying tile installation.
Place plastic tile spacers on the lumber for support and countertop, so the tiles don’t sit directly on them.

Set the tiles

Press your tile piece into the wall with a twist, leaving a 1/8-inch expansion gap at the countertop and lumbar support. Press the rubber float to set it in the adhesive.
Working in small sections, repeat the procedure.
If tiles fall off the sheets, apply a little adhesive on the back, and stick them right back in place.
Allow the mortar and tile to dry completely following the manufacturer’s recommendations, this usually takes 24 hours.

Cut tiles for exact fits

If you have mesh backing tile sheets, you custom fit the sheets around outlets by cutting the mesh backing.
If you are regular tile, then you’ll have to cut the tile with a wet saw for a custom fit.

Grout and clean the tile

Apply grout diagonally across the tiles using a rubber float.
Wait 10 minutes before wiping away excess grout with a sponge.
Rinse your sponge often. You may see a slight haze forming on the tiles. Clean away the hash later with a haze remover.
Allow grout to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Then apply grout sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually takes between 24 hours to 3 days later.
Fill the expansion gaps with caulk or a silicone sealant.
Replace your appliances and cookware, and restore the power to your electrical outlets.

Add life to your kitchen with a NEW tile backsplash. Tiling a backsplash above the counter is one of the easiest ways to upgrade an old, tired kitchen on a tight budget. Need Help or have questions about 6 Steps to Installing a Tile Backsplash in Your Kitchen? Contact Us online at or give Us a call at 1 (503) 3357-8810. From concept to completion, we provide full remodeling services. Let’s Build It!

Kurt Kopp is a dedicated professional with a commitment to excellence. He is a master builder of over 35 years of experience that strives to deliver the highest quality product to his valued customer.