How To Install Ceramic Subway Tile Backsplash

Do not grout the bottom seam where the tile meets the countertop you ll want to use caulk in that seam.

How to install ceramic subway tile backsplash.

To apply your tile in a subway pattern just start with a full piece of tile on your first row then cut a piece of tile in half to start your second row. If you are doing a project with thick ceramic tile over 3 8 inch thick or porcelain tile you will need to use a diamond blade wet saw rather than a snap tile cutter. To install subway tile backsplash measure the wall calculate the number of tiles needed to cover it and buy 10 more tile than you need to account for waste. 1 put your tile and tile adhesive in the room you are going to be installing and maintain the temperature at 70 degrees or more for a full 24 hours before you start this how to install a subway tile backsplash.

Remove all light switch or outlet covers and sand the wall with 80 grit sandpaper in order to create better adhesion for the tile. As you install these final tile pieces it is easiest to butter the backs of the tiles with adhesive. If you still have any mastic or mortar still on the wall you need to go back and work more on the tile removal process. Included in the video are some tips on layout install.

Using the notched edge add a little extra mortar onto the trowel and comb even ridges in one direction. Hold the float at a 45 degree angle as you work the grout into the seams. Continue that pattern and you ll end up with the coveted and classic subway pattern. In this video i go through the basics of how to install a ceramic subway tile on a kitchen backsplash.

Wipe the wall with a damp rag to remove any dust. Make sure your notch trowel corresponds with the tile you re installing. Natural stone tile typically works well with a notch trowel that is 1 4 x1 4 inch in size. Apply grout with a rubber float working diagonally across the tile.