Install a Kitchen Tile Backsplash

Measure the length and width of the kitchen area you'll be tiling with a tape measure to determine how much tile you need to purchase. Calculate the square footage by multiplying the length times the width. Wall tiles are available in a variety of styles and sizes.

Helpful Tips

Buy extra tiles in case you need to replace any in the future. Buy 10 to 15 percent more than what you will need to allow for special cuts, mistakes or replacements.

Check the tile lot number to ensure you use the same exact color for all tiles.

Safety Alert!

If you'll be working around electrical outlets, make sure the power to the room you're working in has been turned off and all outlet covers have been removed before you begin. Shut off the breaker to the kitchen or turn off the house's main power if you're unsure of which circuit belongs to the kitchen.

Make sure your kitchen walls are in good shape before you start applying tile. Tile adhesive can stick to a wide variety of surfaces as long as they're clean, dry and structurally sound. If there is any condensation on the walls, wait for the area to dry before tiling. If necessary, use a dehumidifier for faster drying. If the walls are not new drywall, strip off any existing flexible coverings, such as wallpaper, or scrape away loose paint with a paint scraper. Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper, and be sure to patch drywall holes and cracks with spackling compound.

Apply tile adhesive with a trowel. Hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle and spread a thin, even layer. Be sure to work in small 2' x 2' areas to prevent the adhesive from drying out.

Position the first tile using a twisting motion, and use a line level to ensure the tile is square. Place a tile spacer on each corner of the first tile. To fit spacers between the countertop and the bottom of a tile, cut one end of each spacer. Working outward, continue to lay each tile in a straight row, flush with the spacers. Continue in this manner row after row, following the same pattern. Apply adhesive as needed.

To cover corners and align with cabinets, countertops and electrical outlets, you may need to cut tiles to size using a tile saw or "wet" saw. With a tape measure, measure the dimensions of the space where the tile will go and how the tile will fit around the obstacle and then mark the tile accordingly with a pencil. Cut the tile to fit with the tile saw.

Helpful Tip

When you tile around an outlet, ensure that the outlet cover hides the tile edges.

Safety Alerts!

Be sure you know how to properly use the tile saw before you start. Read manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Always wear safety glasses when operating a tile saw and other power tools.

When you're finished laying the tiles, remove each spacer before they fully adhere. Most adhesives set in 20 to 30 minutes. Allow tiles to set completely before grouting. Mix grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using a rubber float, spread grout diagonally at a 45-degree angle across the tiles, packing the grout between each tile. Wipe off the excess grout with a damp sponge when it becomes hard. Shape grout joints using a rounded grouting tool and clean tiles again. After the grout dries a haze will form. Wipe off tiles and buff to a shine with a clean, dry cloth. Run a bead of silicone caulk along the corner between the countertop and the tiles to create a clean look. Your new kitchen backsplash is almost complete.

Safety Alert!

Since grout may irritate eyes and skin, wear protective safety glasses and rubber gloves.

Finalize the job using a grout sealer. Follow all manufacturer instructions on how to apply the sealer.

Reinstall any electrical fixtures and reattach outlet covers. You may need to use longer screws because of the added thickness of the tiles. Remember not to tighten screws too much or you may break the tiles.

Great work! Installation is complete and your new beautiful backsplash will give your kitchen a boost in functional style.