How to Install a DIY Tile Backsplash in 9 Steps

A tile backsplash is a tile wall design that is usually located in high-heat or high-moisture areas in your home, like a kitchen or bathroom. This functional and decorative accent protects vulnerable areas from moisture and staining. A professional contractor may install your tile backsplash, but you may be able to save money by making a DIY project out of it.

Popular areas to install a backsplash include behind kitchen and bathroom sinks, above kitchen counters, and behind bathroom showers. Backsplashes are usually made from lightweight materials like ceramic, porcelain, glass, and metal, which can be arranged in a variety of patterns and color schemes to create eye-catching designs.

The materials you’ll need for a backsplash tiling depend on the type of backsplash you’re installing. Some simple installations, like peel-and-stick tiles, only require a clean wall and some measurements to get started. For other DIY backsplash projects, you can cut your own tiles from tile sheets. Here is an overview of the eleven things you’ll need to tile a DIY backsplash in your home.

1. 1. Tape measure: A tape measure will allow you to measure the space that you’ll be working with for your tile project. It will also help you lay out your tile formation.
2. 2. Tile cutter: If you’re using porcelain or ceramic tiles, you may need a tile cutter to cut your final pieces to fit in certain spaces. A snap cutter will also require sandpaper to smooth the edges. If you’re using glass tiles, use a wet saw to make smoother cuts.
3. 3. Tile adhesive: You can use thinset mortar or tile mastic as adhesive to set your backsplash. Mastic is not recommended for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
4. 4. Tile: Mosaic tiles, subway tiles, and stone tiles are all backsplash-friendly materials. You may also use any other kind of tile that is lightweight. Floor tiles are not recommended for wall backsplashes, because they are too heavy.
5. 5. Notched trowel: You’ll need a serrated tool like a notched trowel to spread your chosen adhesive on the wall for your tiles to stick to.
6. 6. Level: You’ll need a level to make sure that your tiles are on a flat, even surface.
   
7. 7. Grout: You’ll need grout to seal any spaces between your tiles. You will not need to sand grout in small spaces, but larger gaps require you to sand your grout. You can buy a pre-mixed grout or a grout to mix yourself.
8. 8. Rubber float: A rubber float is a tool that you’ll use to apply the grouting mixture in between your tiles.
9. 9. Caulk: You’ll use caulk to fill the bottom gap where your tile installation meets the countertop.
10. 10. Safety goggles and gloves: You’ll need safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself while you’re cutting the tile for your project.
11. 11. Tile spacers (optional): You can use spacers during the tiling process to keep your tiles laid evenly.

Once you’ve gathered the materials for your tiling project, you’re ready to start installing your new backsplash. Here are simple step-by-step instructions for tiling your own backsplash at home.

1. 1. Measure your space. Measure out the area that you want to apply your backsplash to. This will help you determine how much material you will need to make your backsplash.
2. 2. Lay out your tile pattern. Lay out your tile design near your workspace to make sure that it fits before you start gluing your tiles to the wall. You can even sketch out your area to account for obstacles like electrical outlets or switches.
3. 3. Clear your space. Remove any kitchen items from your working area. Following the proper safety measures, unplug any appliances or outlet covers that may get in your way during installation. Clean and dry the wall of your workspace.
4. 4. Cut your tiles. If you’re cutting your own tiles for your backsplash installation, measure and cut the tiles to the proper sizes to fit your design template. Make sure to wear safety gloves and goggles when you’re doing this.
5. 5. Mix and apply your adhesive. Follow the directions to mix your adhesive of choice, and apply it to one small section of wall at a time. If you apply adhesive too far in advance, it will dry before you have a chance to apply the tiling. Run the notches of the trowel along your adhesive to make ridges, which will make it easier for your tiles to stick to.
6. 6. Lay your first tile. Starting in the bottom corner of your workspace, lay your first tile about an eighth of an inch above the countertop. Press and slightly twist the tile into the adhesive to ensure that the tile is level and firm.
   
7. 7. Lay the other tiles. Repeat the same procedure for the rest of the tiles, laying each row of tiles horizontally and working your way upwards. Leave a small amount of space between each tile. Let the tile work dry for 24 hours or longer.
8. 8. Apply the grout. Apply the grout between your tile according to the instructions on the package. Hold the rubber float at a 45-degree angle as you apply, covering any seams in the application. Scrape away any excess grout, then let it set. After the grout hardens, clean up the rest of the excess grout with a damp sponge (also at a 45-degree angle), taking care not to moisten the fresh grout.
9. 9. Seal the bottom. Use your caulk to seal the bottom gap between the tiles and the countertop. If you’re using natural stone tiles, consider applying a sealer to your grouting both the first time and periodically.

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