Backsplash construction is one of the most popular and important kitchen improvement projects.
It just represents a small part of the kitchen but packs a lot of challenges in a small package.
Here are tips to get it done.
Where Do You Start? Planning the project is certainly the place to start.
There are so many obstructions to work around in a typical back splash that the planning is vital.
Planning cuts and planning for trimming at corners and ends is the best way to speed the project and minimize waste.
What About The Wall Covering? Most likely the existing wall covering will be a suitable base for the tile.
Read the instructions on your chosen adhesive to make sure you do the proper surface preparation before any adhesive goes on.
Also make sure the area over which you tile is rigid and there is little if any movement when force is applied.
A moving base is sure to produce cracked tile.
How Do You Make All Those Cuts? Usually a backsplash project packs lots of cuts in a small area.
Straight cuts can easily be made with a snap cutter.
Corner cuts call for a wet saw as do cutouts like at the electrical outlets.
Small trim cuts and curve cuts use nippers in combination with the wet saw.
Making cuts becomes easier if you can watch a few done by somebody who knows how to do tile cutting.
Some tricks are not exactly obvious.
How Do You Get Around The Electrical Outlets? Dealing with electrical outlets forces you to make cuts to clear the box.
make sure the box does not set too deep in the wall after the tile are installed.
Codes vary but in general the box should not be more than 1/4 inch below the tile surface.
If it is, you may be able to install a box extender.
Be careful with the electricity.
Assume it is on and you have less chance of being injured or worse.
Do You Go Right Down To The Counter? Tile are set one grout line above the counter top.
Accomplish that by setting tiles on tile spacers between the counter and the tile.
The top tile can be a bull nose tile if the tile is not to extend all the way to the top cabinets.
Backsplash installation adds value and beauty to a kitchen counter area.
Just because it is a small area does not mean it is the easiest tile project.
Because of all the trim and corners, this project packs a lot of work in a small area.