How To Install Backsplash: An Easy Guide To Doing It Yourself

Knowing how to tile a backsplash can breathe new life into your kitchen while protecting walls from damage and minimizing everyday messes. Whether it’s mosaic tile, glass tile or any other popular style, installing and grouting a backsplash is easier than you think. Follow our easy guide and transform your kitchen.

• How to install backsplash: The basics
• How to install tile backsplash
• How to install mosaic tile backsplash

How to install backsplash: The basics

A backsplash is a type of panel that extends from a counter to protect adjacent walls from splashes and other forms of everyday wear and tear. While a backsplash certainly has useful applications, it can also add a decorative element with colorful designs and patterns.

Backsplash offers distinct aesthetic features and is very practical. It’s available in many different materials: ceramic and porcelain tile, glass panels, natural stone slab, brick, wood or plywood, metal panels, and more. Each requires its own particular method of installation, crucial to a great, lasting look.

How to install tile backsplash

Tile is the most common form of backsplash, available in a wide range of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, glass, metal, stone, or marble. Installing tile backsplash is easy, but it takes a bit of preparation and know-how. Here’s how to install tile backsplash using tile adhesive.

1. Prepare the area. Clear the area of any obstructions. Clean walls and other surfaces or any dirt or residue. Use sandpaper, if necessary, for a clean and smooth surface. 
2. Measure and align the tiles. Measure the wall space to determine the best fit for your tile. Lay out the intended tile arrangement using a level to ensure tiles will be installed straight and snug with adjacent countertops. 
3. Apply adhesive. Spread the adhesive on the walls and on the backs of the tiles. LePage offers a range of adhesives for every job. LePage PL Heavy Duty Sealant is the first and only product that can do it all. It’s perfect for applying tiles, as well as most household interior and exterior projects.
   
   Work outwards from the center, and don’t work too far ahead as the adhesive can dry out. Grout spacers can be used to space out the tiles and keep the alignment straight. Always press tiles firmly into place. 
4. Apply grout and caulk counter. Grouting fills spaces between tiles following application for a neat, secure application. For both new ceramic tiling and re-grouting applications, we recommend LePage Polyfilla® Wall Tile Grout, a water- and stain-resistant, ready-to-use grouting compound.
   
   Begin by mixing grout (unless using a premixed grout formula) and apply to tile surface at a 45-degree angle to the tiles. Let it sit for ten minutes, then remove excess grout, using a wet sponge and clean water. Repeat as necessary for a clean and residue-free surface.
   
   If necessary, fill crevices between walls and counters with caulk, using a caulking gun and a mildew-resistant caulk. 
5. Cleaning and drying. The tile adhesive should be fully dry within 12 hours. Full cure is typically achieved within 14 days, depending on temperature, humidity and other factors.

How to install mosaic tile backsplash

With a stylish, rustic look and easy installation, mosaic tiling has become one of the more popular styles of kitchen backsplash.

Installing a mosaic backsplash is similar to other tiles; however, mosaic tiles usually come in sheets, and there are some differences to be keep in mind. Here’s how to install mosaic tile sheets in 4 simple steps!

1. Prepare the tiles. Lay out the position of the tiles on the wall using a pencil and level. Protect countertops and adjacent surfaces with a plastic sheet and/or masking tape.
2. Apply the adhesive. Apply a layer of adhesive using a notched trowel. Choose a quality adhesive like LePage PL® Premium® Fast Grab™ Construction Adhesive for strong vertical holds of all common tile styles.
3. Place the tiles. Fit the mosaic tile sheets in position and press firmly. Using a utility knife, cut away the mesh on the sheets. To fit the sheets to your wall, you may have to cut the tile using a specialized tile saw, available for rent at tool centers. 
4. Dry and grout. The adhesive will dry overnight. Buff away any residue with a damp cloth. Once the tiles are set, apply tile grout as per instructions above.  

LePage 2in1 Seal & Bond Kitchen & Bath is a mold and mildew resistant sealant that is ideal for sealing around backsplashes, as well as bathtubs, sinks, showers, tiles, plumbing fixtures, and many other areas. See this tutorial on sealing your backsplash quickly and easily.