Installing Tile Backsplash

How to Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash

1. 1 Make a Story Stick

   

   Mark a board at least half as long as the backsplash area to match the tile spacing.

2. 2 Make Layout Marks Along Wall

   

   Starting at the midpoint of the installation area, use the story stick to make layout marks along the wall. If an end piece is too small (less than half a tile), adjust the midpoint to give you larger, more attractive end pieces. Use a level to mark this point with a vertical reference line.

3. 3 Run Level Along Counter

   

   While it may appear straight, your countertop may not be level and therefore is not a reliable reference line. Run a level along the counter to find the lowest point on the countertop. Mark a point two tiles up from the low point and extend a level line across the entire work area.

4. 4 Using a Notched Trowel - Apply Mastic Adhesive Evenly

   

   Apply mastic adhesive evenly to the area beneath the horizontal reference line using a notched trowel. Comb the adhesive horizontally with the notched edge.

5. 5 Press Tiles Into Adhesive

   

   With a slight twisting motion, press tiles into the adhesive. If the tiles are not self-spacing, use plastic spacers to maintain even grout lines. If the tiles do not hang in place, use masking tape to hold them in place until the adhesive sets.

6. 6 Install Whole Row Along Reference Line

   

   Check occasionally to make sure the tiles are level. Continue installing tiles below the first row, trimming tiles that butt against the countertop as needed.
   
   

7. 7 Install Edge Border Optional

   

   Mosaic sheets normally do not have bullnose tiles on the edges, so if you don’t wish to see the cut edges of the outer tiles, install a vertical column of edge tiles at the end of the backsplash area.

8. 8 Ensure Tiles Are Flat + Firmly Embedded

   

   When the tiles are in place, make sure they are flat and firmly embedded by laying a beating block against the tile and rapping it lightly with a mallet. Remove the spacers. Allow the mastic to dry for at least 24 hours, or as directed by the manufacturer.

9. 9 Mix Grout + Apply With Rubber Grout Float

   

   Spread it over the tiles, keeping the float at a low 30° angle, pressing the grout deep into the joints.

   Note: For grout joints 1⁄8” and smaller, be sure to use a non-sanded grout.

10. 10 Wipe Off Excess Grout

    

    Wipe off excess grout, holding the float at a right angle to the tile, working diagonally so as not to remove grout from the joints. Clean any remaining grout from the tiles with a damp sponge, working in a circular motion. Rinse the sponge thoroughly and often.

11. 11 Clean Excess Grout With Damp Sponge

    

    When the grout has dried to a haze, buff the tile clean with a soft cloth. Apply a bead of caulk between the countertop and the tiles.