How to Install a Kitchen Backsplash

A tile backsplash transforms a kitchen and protects the wall from grease and water. Most backsplashes are small enough to finish over a weekend.

What You'll Need

• Notched trowel (1/4" for most mosaics)
• Tile spacers
• Wet saw or tile cutter
• Grout float
• Tile sponge
• Painter's tape
• Pre-mixed mastic
• Grout
• Silicone caulk

Step-by-Step

1. Prep the wallWipe down the wall with degreaser. Tape off countertops, cabinets, and outlets to keep them clean.
2. Find your centerMeasure the wall and mark a center line. Dry-fit a row of tiles in each direction so cuts on either end match.
3. Spread masticApply mastic to the wall (not the tile) with the notched trowel, working in a section you can finish in 15 minutes.
4. Set the tilesPress tiles into the mastic with a slight twist. Use spacers between tiles and a 1/8" gap at the countertop.
5. Cut around outlets and edgesMark each cut from the wall, not from your plan, and use the wet saw for clean edges around outlets.
6. Let mastic cureWait at least 24 hours before grouting. Skipping this step pulls tiles loose during grouting.
7. Mix and apply groutMix grout to a peanut-butter consistency. Push it into joints with a float held at a 45° angle.
8. Wipe with a damp spongeOnce grout is firm (15–20 min), wipe in light diagonal motions. Repeat in 30 minutes to remove the haze.
9. Caulk the seamsRun a thin bead of color-matched silicone where tile meets countertop and cabinets — grout cracks in those flex joints.

Pro tipTurn off power to the outlets in your work area at the breaker. You'll loosen and reset every outlet to bring it forward by the thickness of the tile.

If you don't think you can do it, let our experts help.

Call Z3 · 337-400-0709