subject: Tips for Installing Your New Kitchen Backsplash [print this page] Tips for Installing Your New Kitchen Backsplash
They say patience is a virtue, but sometimes you just want to get things done. You've spent hours upon hours scouring the internet and home improvement stores for the perfect kitchen backsplash. And now, finally, you've found it. You just need to get it on the wall. Well, luckily, installing a kitchen backsplash is as easy as piewhatever that means. But, hey, it is easy! Here are a few helpful tips for installing your new kitchen backsplash.
Bare Essentials
Tile backsplash
1 Bag thinset
1 bag grout
Trowel
Grout float
Away with the Old
First things first, you need to strip away the old backsplash before you install your new backsplash. You can do this rather easily by using a flat scraper. Once the old glass tile and other debris are removed, make sure you clean the surface. You'll need a fresh slate for your new backsplash.
Lay the Foundation
Using the trowel, start to apply an even layer of thinset mortar. However, be sure to only apply a little at a timeno more space than you can tile in 10 minutes. Also, be sure smooth out the thinset mortar to avoid comb marks; they'll show through your new glass tile.
In with the New
Carefully apply one sheet of glass tile at a time. Be sure to apply even pressure, and take your time to be certain of alignment. Remember, slow and steady wins the race; the race to the best kitchen backsplash.
Grout it Up
The color of grout is entirely up to you, but once your tiles have been settypically after 24 hoursit's time to grout. Mix the grout to the manufacturer's specifications. Then, apply an ample amount of grout to work into the grout spaces of your kitchen backsplash. Using your grout float, make sure you clean the glass tile of excess grout. Then, finally, once the grout dries, buff and shine your new kitchen backsplash using a wet sponge.
