- 1). Design a scale drawing of the project before beginning. Allow for a 1/16 to 1/8 inch grouting space between the tiles. Try to minimize cuts and stay away from narrow strips of tile.
- 2). Turn off all electrical power to the receptacles and switches. Sand glossy painted walls and make sure they are clean. Check that the counter top is level. Using a level, pencil mark the layout of the backsplash for eight inches high.
- 3). Determine where each tile will be placed before installing it on the wall by studying your design plan. Using a permanent marker, mark cut lines on the tiles which will need reshaping. Many straight cuts will require a tile wet saw rental. Just a few straight cuts can be accomplished with a snap cutter. Use tile nippers for curved cuts and an electric drill for holes. Make sure to buy extra tiles, as cutting takes practice.
- 4). Spread tile adhesive on the wall, about 2/3 the thickness of the tiles, with the smooth edge of a notched trowel. Comb out the adhesive evenly with the notched side of the trowel. Spread out only as much adhesive as can be covered by the tiles in 20 minutes. Keep the adhesive away from the counter top, as caulking will be applied later.
- 5). Press the tiles into position on the wall. Begin at the bottom of the backsplash area. Check for level several times during installation. Let the adhesive set up and cure for at least 48 hours.
- 6). Mix the unsanded grout, and spread it diagonally across the tiles with the grout trowel. Wait 15 minutes before removing the excess grout with a damp sponge. After a dry haze appears on the tiles, wipe it clean with a dry towel.
- 7). Caulk between the counter top and the backsplash three to four days later. With a foam brush, apply the silicone sealant to the grout after one week.
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