DIY Kitchen Backsplash the professional way

​Installing a kitchen backsplash is a simple and attainable DIY tiling project, especially for the first time tile installer. There is little prep, mess is minimal and cost is low; the result, however, is monumental!
Since most DIY backsplash tiling is done as part of a renovation, there is some prep work required, but there are some tips and tricks to make it easier. If you have an existing, outdated tiled backsplash, you may even be able to tile directly over top of the old tiles, to save on tear-out and hassle! Keep reading for some handy tips to make sure your first tiling job turns out right. 

The first step is to turn off electrical breakers before working on your backsplash, and then pull electrical receptacles out of the wall a few inches.

Next, apply additional drywall screws (1 screw every 6” on each stud) to ensure the drywall is securely fastened to support the weight of the new backsplash tiles. Any flex in the drywall, can result in tile cracking over time, so make sure the surface is solid before you start.

If this is a renovation, scuff the existing paint with course sandpaper, to take the shine off the paint and give the mastic or thinset something to bond to. Wipe clean with a damp rag to remove any dust created from sanding.

If this is new construction, apply a paint primer to the bare drywall surface, otherwise the liquid from the thinset will absorb into the bare drywall too quickly.

If there are existing backsplash tiles, and they are solid and securely fastened to the wall, you don't need to remove them. Apply a thinset bonding primer, applied with a paint roller and tile over the tiled surface. This will save you a bunch of tear-out & mess, allowing you to tile directly over top of the existing tile! Check out this post for more information on tiling over top of existing tiles. 

​Design Tip: When tiling the kitchen backsplash, consider tiling above the kitchen cabinets, in addition to tiling between the countertop and cabinets. This will turn the wall into a feature wall rather than simply a kitchen backsplash.  Tiling above your cabinets can add interest and detail, enhancing the look of your kitchen, for nominal cost.

Once you've settled on a design, begin tiling, using either a mastic or thinset intended for wall use. Wall use thinsets have a higher grip strength to prevent tiles from sliding or falling off the wall before the thinset has cured.
Make sure measure twice and cut once, for any cuts you have to make. And don’t forget to use spacers! Nothing will make your tile look like an amateur job more than crooked grout lines. For more info on planning a tile layout, check out this post. 
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Once you are finished tiling, wait until the thinset or mastic has set (usually 24 hours, but check manufacturer's guidelines) and then you can go ahead and grout your tile.

​Once the tiling and grout are complete, you can reinstall the electrical outlets. You will probably require longer electrical outlet screws to accommodate the added thickness of the tiles. 
Apply silicone to all the joints where the tile meets the countertop, and then you’re done! 

It’s time to enjoy your beautiful new backsplash and upgraded kitchen!