DIY Network

Kitchen Catch-Up: How to Install a Tile Backsplash Install a white tile backsplash to lighten dark wood cabinets in a kitchen. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-107

With the countertops in place, Amy and Anita tackle the backsplash. Anita chooses a simple tile, keeping the focus of the kitchen on the new countertops and appliances. The white backsplash reflects light thus brightening the space under the dark wood cabinets.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G
	Figure H

Materials:

tiles
trowel
notched trowel
mortar
wax pencil
wet tile saw
plumb leveler
tape and protective paper
spacers and tile shim
thinset mortar

Tile Backsplash Tips:

• The subway tiles featured in this project are pre-spaced, eliminating the need to use spacers between each tile.

• Position 1/8-inch shim or spacers between the bottom tiles and the countertop to allow space for the caulk bead.

• Clean mortar as you work.

Safety Alert:

• Always wear protective eyewear when working with power tools.

How to Install a Tile Backsplash:

• Amy measures and levels the space to be tiled (figure A). She and Anita lay the pattern out onto the counter and over the stove making notes where they will need to make cuts (figure B).

• Amy makes the cut marks with a wax pencil (figure C) and she shows Anita how to cut the tile with a wet tile saw. Anita pushes the tile gently through the blade and cuts the tile.

• After covering the new countertops with paper and painter’s tape, Anita starts with the bullnose border tiles. She uses a notched trowel to backbutter the tile with thinset mortar holding the trowel at a 45-degree angle, to create grooves (figure D). This will adhere the tile to the wall.

• Amy presses the tile onto the wall and wiggles it to create suction between the tile and the wall (figure E).

• Place a spacer between the countertop and the tiles to keep the line straight (figure F) and also to keep the hard surfaces from touching and potentially cracking. Nail a batten board or a ledger board onto the wall level with the countertop to continue a line that extends behind an appliance (figure G).

• Anita continues tiling, staggering every other tile for a brick-layered effect. After the tile dries, apply a light grout to complement the bright white backsplash (figure H).

GUESTS :

Adam Berlin
General Contractor
Maverick Home Remodeling Inc.
Website: www.RenewTheHome.com