10 Things You Should Know Before Starting a Tile Backsplash

     I always encourage people to think about completing their own home improvement projects. Now, why would I do that? Doesn't that lose me money? No, the people who are already searching for how to do it themselves most likely aren't going to call me anyway, so I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I get to spread information on how to complete projects on my own and have the accomplishment of completing something beautiful in my own home!

Now, here are 10 things I think you should know/do before starting your tile backsplash

Backsplashes-

1) Backsplashes do see grease splatter, but rarely does it affect the finish of the tile and grout if it is sealed and installed correctly. So don’t be discouraged from using light colors or grout on a backsplash

Scrolling through Instagram one day I saw a post of a homeowner saying that their contractor would not put white grout in their backsplash due to grease splatter. At first, I agreed with the contractor but after using prior jobs and different thought processes I decided that I was wrong. My thought is that as long as things are properly cleaned and maintained there should not be any reason to not use white grout.

2) Cover your backsplash with painter's plastic and then cardboard/ ram board to make sure nothing can scratch or harm it

This is my method of protecting countertops that I use on every job. It's relatively simple to install and gives a great piece of mind to anyone installing and the people who own the countertops. I usually let the plastic drape down a couple inches over the edge of the counters and down the cabinets, and I do this too with the cardboard.

3) Check the countertop for level, when going all the way to the ceiling with backsplash tile it could throw off the layout if its installed off-level. Cutting the bottom course is sometimes the best option

One of my first jobs was one where the countertops were off ½” over 10’ and I had no clue how to make it look good. I decided on cutting the bottom course and thankfully it solved that issue. But always check the countertop for level.

4) Center the layout on the wall, or from right behind the sink or stove. These options give the best-finished look

These are my opinions, but sometimes this isn't possible if you have a tile that is small like 1x1”. But in most cases, these areas are the best possible option for layout.

5) Check all the layout options to see how the end/cut pieces look against walls and trim

If using the previous layout options and it’s leaving you with sliver cuts against cabinets, walls, or trim, you may need to shift the layout a bit or alter your grout joints. 

6) Usually you can start with a full tile against the countertop, check to see how it ends up beneath the cabinets or against the ceiling

In most cases, this tip does work out, with a cut against the cabinets, but when it doesn't it's good to know beforehand. For example, if you do this layout and then the tile is falling short of the cabinets by ¼” it may be beneficial to open up the grout joints to make up for the difference or even starting with a cut at the bottom.

7) Don’t forget to leave 1/16” for a silicone joint against the counter and cabinets

Expansion and contraction are not just a thing in showers and floors. It is just as important to leave a soft joint against the counter and cabinets. Surprisingly enough I've seen more grout crack out from counters moving and cabinets moving than anywhere else. 

8) If using a patterned tile, make sure it “wraps” corners to give it the best look

Wrapping tile in the corner is a way to give the presentation of an expert installation. Even some installers don't pay attention to this step.

9) Finishing the tile ends looks best with a metal trim piece or back-mitered tile, but this is a personal preference. Find what options you like the best

Companies like Schluter have so many options to choose from when finishing an edge. But mitering is also always an option. Personal preference is the only deciding factor for this tip.

10) Have lots of spacers and wedges ready, backsplashes tend to use smaller tile on sheets and most of the time these sheets are imperfect.

Purchasing quality tile will help mitigate this tip, but it’s always a good idea to have lots of spacers and wedges.