Installing a tumbled stone backsplash in a kitchen.
A ceramic tile backsplash beautifies a kitchen or bathroom and allows for easier cleanup of surrounding walls. Ceramic, porcelain and stone tile are suitable materials for installing a backsplash. Install them with a type of adhesive called mastic. Available in 3-gallon buckets, the material comes premixed and applies with a standard V-notch trowel. Plan ahead and carefully lay out the desired pattern so project goes smoothly. Professional installers complete a typical backsplash in a few hours. With adequate understanding of tile installation methods, a homeowner can expect this project to take the bulk of a day.
Instructions
1. Choose a suitable tile for the backsplash area. There are many types and styles available. Choose a tile that complements the decor of the applicable area.
2. Determine the layout of the backsplash area based on the size of the tile and the desired pattern. Take careful measurements with a tape measure to determine the best approach to the layout. Consider a pattern that offers the least amount of cuts and best fits the backsplash area to make installation easier. Often the ends of the backsplash and top row require cut pieces. These areas require bull nose or decorative end caps to provide a finished appearance.
3. Use a 2-foot level and draw a vertical line in the center of the backsplash area. This mark provides a reference point to aid in the layout and installation of the tile.
4. Apply the mastic to the backsplash area using the V-notched trowel. Hold the trowel in a 45-degree angle to ensure an even and consistent coat. Do not spread too much mastic at one time as the mastic will start to dry in about an hour.
5. Set the first row of tile starting at the center line drawn in step 3 and working towards the ends. Place the tile in the applicable location and firmly press it into place. Fill in the remaining rows while saving the cuts for last. If you're using tile larger than 4 inches, put in plastic spacers to prevent the tile from sagging and to maintain proper spacing. Keep a bucket of water and sponge handy to clean excess adhesive during installation. Use the margin trowel to clean excess adhesive from the grout joints. It is easier to remove the adhesive before it has a chance to dry.
6. Mark and cut applicable tile using a tile cutter or the angle grinder. Ceramic tile cuts easily with a standard tile cutter. Cutting stone tiles requires an angle grinder or wet saw. Install the cut tile.
7. Allow the tile to set overnight for best results. Apply the grout with a grout float once the tile is dry. Mix the grout in a clean bucket with a margin trowel following manufacture's instructions. Apply the grout to the tiled surface and work into the grout joints with the grout float. Use a clean, damp sponge in circular motions to smooth the grout joints and remove excess grout.
8. Allow the grout to develop a slight haze, usually in about a half an hour. Gently wipe a 2-foot section with one side of the sponge to remove the haze. Flip the sponge over and repeat. Rinse the sponge in clean water between each pass. Repeat this step over the entire backsplash area.
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