How to Install Tile Backsplash the Easy Way!
Tile backsplashes whether they are in the kitchen or bathroom tend to become more quickly outdated than what you would like to think and they can be kind of a pain in the rear to update. I stumbled across a fantastic product a few years ago that makes the install and replacement job much easier. With that said, if you are thinking of tacking this yourself there are two key things you need:
You like to do jigsaw puzzles. I know you may think this has nothing to do with tiling a backsplash, but oh contraire! Once you get the “big stuff” on, you’ll spend several hours filling in the little spots and it’s seriously just like a giant puzzle! If you hate puzzles, stop here and hire someone. That someone could be your 14 year old. ;)
Wet tile saw. You can hopefully find somewhere to rent one of these, unless you have several upcoming tile projects in which case you might want to buy one. There are lots of ways to cut tile, but when you’re working with mosiac type installs, it simply does the best job. Not the cleanest way to get it done, but the best in my opinion.
So, besides time consuming, there really isn’t anything that hard about this project if you use my method! Let’s get started!
Investment
Money | Can vary widely depending on the tile selection! Look for deals in your area from local warehouses. I found mine on a steal and did the whole thing for $150 in tile! I’d allow your budget to be about $250 total to include the backing, grout, tile and supplies for 15 sq ft. Obviously, materials go up from there if you have more space.
Time | My project was 6 hours start to finish for 15 sq feet and a very difficult tile to lay because of the 45 degree angles, but I would allow a day (or night) for whatever you’re going to tackle. :)
Supplies*
Grout in color choice (I prefer the pre-mixed version)
Tile of choice
MusselBound Tile Mat (cannot use in wet spaces like showers). This is in lieu of thin set you would normally use to back the tile.
Bucket, rag, water, yellow foam sponge, grout float (optional), putty knife
Steps
Determine area and mark off with a square or tape measure and lines to ensure you are STARTING WITH STRAIGHT LINES. This is like a wallpaper project, if your first piece is off, the entire thing is going to be crooked. Think about how you want the tile laid out (horizontal, vertical, angle, etc.). How you want the end result to look is going to impact where you start.
Apply MusselBound Mat by unrolling and applying to measured surface. This is a two person job typically. You only get one chance to get it right or you’ll risk it not doing its job. Don’t remove the side you are going to stick the tile to until your workspace is clean and you are totally ready. It’s like a giant 3M sticker! It won’t dry out per say, but you don’t want it to get dirty.
Get started! You don’t have to do a thing to your tile other than make sure it’s dry and clean. Just start sticking it up where you designated your starting point to be! Do all the "big pieces” first and then you’ll get to the jigsaw part to start filling in.
There is no waiting time to grout with the Musselbound mat, so start filling in the grout lines as deep as the product will go. Gently wipe off excess with foam sponge. Go back over in an hour to remove remaining glaze.
You’re done!
Enjoy the Project
Playlist | Country Coffeehouse by Spotify
Wine | Meiomi Pinot Noir
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