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Definition: A backsplash is a vertical extension to a counter–typically kitchen or bathroom counter–which protects the wall from unintended splashes of water. In this article, we will talk about the kitchen backsplash.

A kitchen backsplash can be constructed out of tile. As shown in the accompanying photo, the backsplash for this tile counter is made of a horizontal line of tiles. Glass mosaic is the most popular form of tile backsplash.

However, other materials, such as granite, Corian, Silestone, stainless steel can be used as a backsplash. As a rule, though, the same material used to make the counter is also used to make the backsplash. It is often considered an optional element, so confirm with your installer that they will be giving you a backsplash.

Examples: John requested that the tilers put a backsplash on the counter around the sink.

How to Tile a Kitchen Backsplash?

Tiling your backsplash will enhance the kitchen area and could turn your project around with just some simple steps. Follow these instructions to learn how to tile a backsplash.

Tile a Kitchen Backsplash: Tools

Kitchen Backsplash Ideas On A Budget

Select and plan the proposed layout of the backsplash. It is important to know that the kitchen backsplash normally extends at least 4 inches up from the countertop to the bottom of the wall cabinets. Use the tape to measure and double-check the amount of tile needed, as you don’t want to run out of tiles before it’s too late. The area needed should be obtained by measuring the length and width of the backsplash area. Normally wall tiles are available in 4 inches to 8” squares.

Depending on the type of countertop that you have, it could also determine or could provide you an idea on how to align the grout veins with the countertop tile. If the countertop is not tiled, then start the first tile in the center of the base of the backsplash. Be sure to turn off the electric circuit of the outlets of the small appliance that normally are located in the backsplash area.

Now that the power has been turned off, and the electrical outlet covers have been removed, clean the wall surface and allow drying. Using the notched trowel apply the recommended adhesive. Remember that many of the tile manufacturers will be recommended their preferred adhesive that will work better with their product. Hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle and spread a very thin layer, not thicker than ¼ inch. Do not apply the adhesive over large areas to avoid it from drying out.

Kitchen Backsplash Position

The tile must be centered ad the base of the backsplash and place the tile using a twisting motion. Check that the tile is leveled before continuing. Use the spacer on each corner of the tile and push the spacers into the adhesive. Continue tiling the backsplash in rows, making sure that the tiles are flush to the spacers. Remove any adhesive that could come up to the surface of the tile. Keep checking to be sure that the tiles are leveled.

Be sure to leave enough space to accommodate grout after the tiling has been completed. If you need to cut tiles, use a tile cutter as you don’t want to have chipped tiles at the backsplash area. When tiling around the power outlet, measure the cover and be sure that the corner of the tiles will be hidden by the outlet cover. When you are finished tiling, use a damp cloth to remove any excess adhesive from the tiles and clean between the tiles. Allow the adhesive to set and remove the spacers.

Mix the grout per manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the grout using a rubber float and spread it at a 45-degree angle across the tiles. Use a damp cloth to remove any excess grout. Clean the tiles and smooth the joints using a damp sponge.

Replace the outlet covers and clean thoroughly the tiles and the countertop.

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Designs Combining 2 or More Tiles for a Unified Effect

1. Kitchen Backsplash Tile Designs: Earthen Subway

It’s easy enough to lay a single type of tile for a backsplash. We have plenty of kitchen backsplash ideas on this site that show examples of single-tile backsplashes for the kitchen.

Here is just one, Indian stone 4″ tile from Merola. It’s the same tile, up and down and across. There is nothing wrong with that; it looks great. But, unless the tiles within each sheet are highly different, the backsplash can look quite monotonous.

Another look in tile backsplashes “stacks” two or more types of tile, along with listellos and liners. It’s a rich, complex look.

Remember: grout is as much a design element as tile. Variations of grout color can make a dramatic difference in how the rest of the tile field will look.

The scale is hard to see in this small photo, but those are 6 inches long (by 3 inches wide) subway-type tiles in the field.

SL-Cashew Glossy 3×6

Golden Walnut Dome Liner 3/4×12

SL-Beige Stack

Grout: Bone

2. Kitchen Backsplash Tile Designs: Contemporary

This backsplash design is a personal favorite. It’s a very quiet, modern design that, at first glance, doesn’t look like it would have three types of tile and a liner. With these horizontals, it has a faint Frank Lloyd Wright, mid-twentieth century appearance.

Fibra Merino Stack

Fibra Linen Stack

Castle Grey Dome Liner 3/4×12

Silver Beige Honed 18×18

Grout: Antique White

3. Kitchen Backsplash Tile Designs: 2″ Basketweave Tile

Within the tumbled stone on the band are three dark-brown inserts. These are individual 2″ square tiles from Arizona Tile’s Medici line. You can’t see it well, but they have a pretty basketweave style (see link below for close-up).

Torreon Stone Tumbled 6×6

Mexican Noce Dome Liner 3/4×12

Torreon Stone Mini Versailles 12×12

Medici Walnut Nodo Insert 2×2

Grout: Haystack

You will need the following tools:

Our Recommendations

NOTE: Before starting be sure to check that your wall is dry and resistant enough to hold the tile. If moisture is present allow it to dry before tiling your backsplash. Check for any damaged drywall and repair it before starting.

All about Bathroom Remodelling

Kitchen and Bathroom Remodelling

People also ask:

Is natural stone good for Kitchen Backsplash?

Yes. While natural stones are quite expensive and there is always a risk to crack them, you can always use them to improve your Kitchen Backsplash.

How do you best clean your Kitchen Backsplash?

To clean the Kitchen Backsplash effectively, follow these tips: