How to Install a Back-Splash that Doesn’t Look Like a DIY Project
YouTube makes “how to install a backsplash” seem like anyone could do it – in about 20 minutes. It’s true, of all the tile projects you could tackle a back-splash is a good one to start with. Is this a project that you might feel comfortable doing? Considering these six things might help you make a decision.
- Did you remove the old tile and damage your wall?
- You are installing a complex deco?
- Do you have a lot of outlets to work around?
- Are you are installing a clear glass tile?
- Are you tiling from counter to cabinet bottom?
- Do you have a large area behind the stove to tile?
If you said yes to any or all of the above question you may want to call in a professional tile contractor near you.
See our post about how to estimate the cost of a backsplash and keep your costs down!
If you decide to go forth and conquer that backslash then consider these things when making your tile choice.
6 Secrets From the Pros for Choosing an Amazing Back-Splash
I was running into Home Depot the other day to pick up a few things for a job and as I stood there trying to decide on the right grout color for my job when I over heard a husband and wife trying to decide on a tile for their kitchen back splash. They were all over the place with ideas ranging from modern to country. I didn’t want to get involved but I thought if I could give them a bit of advice it would be don’t wait until you get to the big box store to talk about what you want for your backsplash.
Pinterest is a good place to get ideas – and the options really are endless.
Here are a few things to think about before you start choosing your tile:
- The style of your house.
- The colors of your space.
- Value. Look at the ideas you love on Pinterest and notice if you like a dark back-splash or light. Also, think about how much light you have in your kitchen.
- Tone. What is the main “tone” of your counter and cabinets? Is it warm or cool? Choose a back-splash tile with a matching tone.
- Simple vs busy. Look at your favorites again and notice if you are leaning towards simple, tone on tone tiles, or if you love lots of color and design.
- Trendy. Remember, tile is not cheap and neither is installation. If you want something that is timeless and that you’ll be happy with for many years stay away from the trendy shapes and go with a neutral color and a simple shape. You can always add color and design in other areas that aren’t so expensive to change.
Bottom line is this – back-splash choices are massive. It’s not a decision that should be an impulsive one. It may even be one worthy of hiring an interior designer for an hour or two. But however you decide to do it remember this bit of wise advice – your back-splash can either be the one thing that unifies your kitchen or be the only thing that gets noticed. You will never be sorry that you put some time and thought into it!
Ready Set: Tile
Now that you have your tile what is your next step?
How to Install a Back-Splash:
- Clean your walls with a good degreaser.
- Plan your layout. Think about where it will stop or start. Also, areas where you want the tile centered. Mark it those areas on the wall.
- Mask off your countertops with some masking tape.
- Turn off the power to your outlets and or switches and remove all the covers.
- Spread a thin layer of adhesive on the wall in a small area to start with.
- Install all whole tiles.
- Cut tiles for exact fits.
- Let dry according to adhesive directions.
- Apply the grout with a grout trowel.
- Clean with grout sponge.
Text us your backsplash measurements now to get an instant cost range!
Feeling over whelmed and need some help? We’re here to help.
Or, call me to set up a time and we can give you an free estimate.
Thanks!
