Ceramic tiles protect surfaces where liquids are often present.
Installing ceramic tile over drywall to create a backsplash for a kitchen sink or a protective wall surface in a shower are relatively common procedures in home improvement. Ceramic tile is an ideal material for these applications because it is waterproof and durable. With the installation of a plaster backing, you can create a wall that looks professional and that will protect your drywall from moisture.
Instructions
1. Measure the length and height of your drywall to determine the square footage you need to cover. Divide that number by the dimensions of your tile to determine how many tiles you need. For example, if your wall is 8 feet high and 8 feet wide, your bare square footage is 64 square feet. If your tiles are 12 inches square, you need 64 tiles to complete the task.
2. Spread a layer of plaster on the wall with a notched trowel. Follow the manufacturer's directions on the plaster container to determine how long you should wait after application before you can place the tile on the wall.
3. Place the first tile on the wall in the lower left corner. Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the edge of the tile and the side of the wall, edge of the tub, shower, floor or counter.
4. Place a tile spacer along the right-hand side of the tile. Place the second tile against this spacer. Repeat to create a base row of tiles along the bare wall, placing spacers between each tile as you work.
5. Place the subsequent rows of tile. Position a tile spacer along the top edge of the first tile you set. Place a tile next to this spacer, then create a second row of tiles above the tiles already set, again placing spacers between each tile. Continue in this fashion until the entire space is filled. Allow the tiles to set for at least 24 hours.
6. Remove the spacers. Spread grout in the gaps between each tile and between the edge of the tiled wall and the tub or counter top. Use the tip of the trowel's handle to remove excess tile or grout and to smooth out the grout line. Wipe any excess grout off the surface of the tile with a warm damp rag.
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