How to Install a Tile Backsplash, Part 1 -- Buildipedia DIY

A ceramic tile backsplash is a great do-it-yourself project and a nice introduction to working with tile. Join host Jeff Wilson as he guides you through choosing tile for a backsplash, tells you which tools and supplies you'll need, and demonstrates how to get the job done right.

[landoflansdowne]

For any of you who are viewing this video and are new to tiling, I'd like to make several comments before you follow the directions shared in this video.  #1 - you'll notice that in the written description for this video the tile is referred to as "ceramic" tile.   However In the video, the tile guy states that the tile being used is "porcelain".  Porcelain and ceramic tile cut a little differently. Both leave sharp edges when cut, but porcelain, especially, can leave an edge so sharp it will cut you.  Even though it isn't discussed in this video, many of us old-school tile setters "stone" our cut edges.  Stone-ing will dull, or soften a cut tile, and get rid of any jagged or sharp edges.  There's nothing worse that cleaning your backsplash with a sponge a year after installation, and nicking a knuckle, or cutting a finger - not to mention destroying your sponge.  My advice - consider stone-ing your cut edges.  Before someone corrects me, let me add this.  In cases where cut tile are being applied under wall cabinetry,  and the cut edge will be facing the cabinetry, OR cut tile are being applied around electrical boxes,  and the cut edges will be covered by a wall plate - stoning is not necessary.

#2 - in the video you see mastic (or tile adhesive) being applied directly onto a wine-red, enameled wall.  I suggest that you consider scoring a painted wall if you are planning on applying tile to it.  This suggestion goes double if your tile is being applied to a gloss, or semi-gloss paint.  NOTE: In most cases the wall paint in a bathroom or kitchen IS gloss or semi-gloss.  I use a utility knife, to scuff up a painted surface, but some 60 or 80-grit sandpaper will work just as well.  Others may not agree, but in my opinion, tile adhesives, mastics, glues, etc. just adhere better if the surface is rough rather than smooth.  
Wishing you much success with your tile project,
JL -
3rd generation finish carpenter/tile setter, and, beleive it or not, songwriter for the late Johnny Cash.

[katwhelton]

The tools needed at the beginning aren't all of the ones actually needed. Others include: spacers, wet saw, tile cutter, etc. I'm not sure about others, but I don't have a wet saw available. 

[bajaxn]

Impressive information. Thank you for the thorough and concise.

[haroldjessie]

What brand of tile are you using, also where was it purchased. That is the exact look that I will be giving my kitchen in 2 weeks or so

[Unplugged]

Tile cutters seems to be easier, cleaner and a lot more safer than the wet saw. Can tile cutters be used for all types of tiles of just porcelain...?

[intotopei]

How did you ensure the first row is level? Thanks

[ritamontminy]

what would you do if the tile teeter totters in place instead of laying flat on the wall?? How would you prevent that from happening??

[RobertLinthicum]

A wet saw unnecessary. Find center before you begin layout, and you won't end up with slivers in corners. Even corners count, if you care.

[hooperwille]

much better than ehow or expert village

[sarahmatheson]

how do i deal with a gap between the counter and the wall? My walls arent level i guess, so on one side of my kitchen there is a significant gap. It looks too big to caulk after installation.

[stevewarrington]

Too bad he messed up around the outlets. The metal tabs from the electrical outlets are supposed to rest on the tile and the switch plates will sit flush.

[timothyshellgren]

1inch cuneced back splash tile how to install it 2:45 2:47

[ThelderGamr]

not really..for a shower stall..or bathroom area..sure..but a backsplash...not needed

[Etherglide]

Just about as bad a DIY job as I've seen.