A tile backsplash can be a great way to add a little personality to a kitchen. Mosaic tiles can make that even easier as they are available in a huge array of styles, materials, sizes, and colours that fit any taste.
But knowing how to install that backsplash is of the utmost importance. With a helpful step-by-step guide, you can install your own mosaic backsplash before long. It requires having the right tools and materials to get the job done.
Step 1: Getting Materials and Prepping the Workspace
Start by finding out how many tiles you’ll need. You can find square footage by multiplying the length by the height of the wall. So, if you had a 5×2 wall, you would have 10 square feet. You should always add about 10% to ensure you have enough for the job.
It is then time to prep the space. Ensure the walls have been cleaned and repaired so they are smooth. Outline and remove your coverings or appliances, so you don’t tile over those areas. You should also cover your counters and install edge protectors to protect your tiles from damage.
Step 2: Map Out Your Tile
One of the last preparation steps is to take the time to map out your layout. Remember, you need to wipe down the walls to remove any dust that may have been lingering. Make sure that they are level as well.
Grab a pencil and start mapping out a few sheets along the bottom edge of the area, working up as you go. When you map out a few sheets, grab a sheet from each tile box and look for any colour differences. This way, you can meld the backsplash effortlessly when you go through the installation process.
Step 3: Spreading Adhesive
When the tile has been properly, it is time to start spreading on your adhesive. You will need to do so with a v-notched trowel, spreading your adhesive evenly over the backsplash area. Make sure you work in sections so you don’t risk overspreading the material.
Start in the corner where you initially mapped out the backsplash. You can then use your v-notched trowel, scooping a liberal amount of the adhesive and applying it as evenly as possible to the wall. It would help if you used a notched edge to create uniform notches within the adhesive. Ensure that the notches go in the same direction to achieve the best possible results.
Just note that if you are mixing your own tile adhesive, you will need to follow the instructions from the manufacturer for the best possible results.
Step 4: Placing the Tile
This is where mapping out your tile will come in handy. It is time to start placing the tile, placing the first full tile sheet at the bottom edge that you mapped out in one of the previous steps. Make sure that you use a rubber tile float in order to press the tile into place.
It is important that you hold the rubber tile float into place for a few seconds. Doing so will prevent rippling from occurring when the tile sets. Also, make sure that you take care to grout the joints. The joints are those tiny gaps between the individual tiles that make up the sheet of tile. Make sure that the grout joints are as even as possible before continuing.
Step 5: Cutting Tile
When you go through the mapped-out sections, there is a chance you will need to make cuts to your sheets. This is for areas around outlets, along outside edges, or under windows to ensure that everything fits properly.
Tile nippers and a wet saw should be ample for cutting down the tile to size. Wear eye protection as the tile can splinter and fly in different directions. For some troublesome areas, try a V-notched margin trowel. Back butter will also help with getting trimmed tiles to stick.
Step 6: Prepping the Tile and Applying Grout
When it comes time to grout, wipe down everything with a damp towel so that you can remove any dust. Afterward, mix the grout according to manufacturer specifications. When the grout is mixed, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soak up any remaining water.
Begin applying the ground, using your grout float at a 45-degree angle while working in sections. You are scraping away the excess grout with the float at a 90-degree angle. When you are done, wipe the tile down again to remove any excess grout you didn’t get with your grout float. Keep going until the tile’s surface is clean and free of grout.
Step 7: Caulking Outside Edges
The finish line is in sight. When you are done with the grout, it is time to apply caulk to the outside edges where the backsplash will meet things like cabinets and countertops. This is to protect them against potential moisture that can seep beneath and ruin that underlying surface.
When you have finished caulking all of the outside edges, it is time to wipe everything down. Using a sponge or damp rag, clean all of the edges and wipe the backsplash down to make it look its best.
Step 8: Grout Haze Remover
When applying grout can leave a haze over the tile when it has dried fully. Don’t worry about that; a grout haze remover can get the job done. Just apply and use a damp sponge over the tiles, giving them proper time to dry.
You should see that the haze is fully removed, which means that your backsplash is completely done. You can then sit back, relax, and enjoy your hard work and beautiful new backsplash mosaic tile. Make sure to follow any manufacturer instructions regarding use and safety to prevent any issues from arising.
