How to Install a Tile Backsplash

By: Joseph Truini, This Old House magazine

Shopping List

Supplies You Will Need

1. DECORATIVE TILE

2. LISTELLO TILE
border

3. CERAMIC FIELD TILE

4. BULLNOSE TILE

5. UNSANDED TILE GROUT

6. ACYLIC TILE MASTIC
1 gallon for every 50 to 60 square feet

7. CLEAN CLOTH

8. 80-GRIT SANDPAPER

9. CANVAS DROP CLOTHS
to protect floor and countertop

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Tools List
Tools You Will Need
- 2-foot level
- Tape measure
- Rubber grout float
- Tile nippers
- 3/16-inch V-notched trowel
- Caulking gun with tub-and-tile caulk
- Bucket and sponge
- Score-and-snap tile cutter
- Optional: Motorized wetsaw,
  rents for about $45 to $70 a day, plus blade rental, is invaluable for notches and other complex cuts
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Photo by: Shaffer Smith Photography

Introduction
Overview
Steps:
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9

8. Clean and caulk

• After grouting the entire backsplash, clean the surface with a soft sponge and clear water, rinsing the sponge often. Wipe diagonally to the grout lines so as not to pull any grout from the joints.
• Wait 30 to 45 minutes for the grout to set and for a hazy film to appear on the tiles, then buff off the haze with a clean, dry cloth until the tiles shine.
• Squeeze a thin bead of tub-and-tile caulk, the same color as the grout, into the joint at the very bottom of the backsplash, in the corners, and between the tiles and the cabinets. Smooth with a wet finger.