How to Create a Kitchen Backsplash

A backsplash is a covering for your kitchen walls just above the counters. A kitchen backsplash protects the drywall from spills and splashes. The backsplash can be used to cover only a few inches of the wall along the counters, or you may choose to cover the entire wall with the backsplash material. Creating a backsplash can be simple or complicated, depending on the materials you choose, but most home owners can install a backsplash on their own with a few basic tools.

Instructions

1

Choose what type of material you would like to use for your backsplash. A common choice for a kitchen backsplash is ceramic or stone tile because it comes in a variety of colors and patterns, it is durable and long-lasting, and it can be cleaned easily. You can also choose vinyl tiles, glass tiles or smooth-textured wallpaper to protect the walls in your kitchen.

2

Measure the total area of wall you will be covering. Make note of both the length and the height of the wall area. Take your measurements to a home improvement center or hardware store, and purchase enough backsplash material to cover the wall area with several extra feet of material to cover cutting errors and miscalculations in your measurements.

3

Place your backsplash material against the wall to approximate the placement of the tiles or sections of wallpaper. Mark the center of the wall--that is where you will begin placing the backsplash. Use a laser level to draw a straight line across the top of the backsplash placement, and snap a chalkline to use as a guide for this line during installation.

4

Use a tile cutter to cut ceramic and porcelain tile, and use a tile saw to cut stone or granite tiles. Trim vinyl tiles using scissors or shears, and score glass tiles with a scoring tool that allows you to snap the tile into pieces. Arrange the backsplash sections to fit your wall, cutting out spaces for electrical outlets and switches.

5

Apply adhesive to the walls with the flat side of a metal trowel. Adhesives are best to use with vinyl tiles and heavy wallpaper, but some adhesives are made to work with glass and ceramic tile, as well. If you are installing stone tiles, it's best to use thinset mortar and grout. Spread a thin layer on the wall about 3/8 of an inch thick, and apply the same amount to the back of the backsplash tiles. Position the backsplash on the wall, and hold it into place for several seconds until it is secure. Allow the adhesive or thinset to cure at least 24 hours before adding grout or additional details.