How to Install a Natural Stone Backsplash

Backsplash is a great way to create a dynamic look added to your kitchen design and natural stone surely is a perfect choice not only because it will look fantastic, natural stone is easy to cut and install. Hiring a professional could cost you thousands of dollars, but you also have a choice of doing it yourself. You just have to follow closely these simple steps and for sure you will save much more money.

Here I will show you how to install a natural stone backsplash in your kitchen in an easy step by step procedure.

Step 1: List down all the things you need before you start the project. You need few things to purchase to install your desired natural stone backsplash. Like of course the tile of your choice, a rubber float and grout, a blade , a sponge , a bucket , a trowel , compound thin set mix , a wax pen a pencil, a tape measure, and a spacer.

Step 2: Before you start you have to prepare the wall. Make sure that the surface is perfectly smooth. And if it is the first time your wall has been tiled it would be easier to prepare.

Step 3: It is always better to start section by section. So first you need to measure the tile and if necessary cut at a corner to and fit around electrical outlets. You can use tape measure and pencil to mark off the areas before you start cutting tiles and applying the compound.

Step 4: Some people when installing a kitchen backsplash may prefer applying the compound directly to the wall. In this case it would be harder when you are working around electrical outlets or other obstacles there may be. However It would be easier to apply the compound to each individual tile and then stick it directly to the wall. Preferably, It is the best way for you to do it.

Step 5: Adhering the tile horizontally, you should start from the bottom row. Make sure that you are leaving a small space in between the tiles and always check that the edges are well aligned. If you think they are not properly aligned, remove the tile and reapply compound to make it lay flat.

Step 6: Every now and then once you placed few tiles in a row, using a sponge and a bucket of water. Wipe out carefully any excess compound to clean up the surface.  If there is a compound that builds up between the tiles, you can slide through the gap using your blade to clean it through.

Step 7: When you are done with the first row you can start moving upward. Between each horizontal row, use tile spacers to maintain a straight line and always recheck your work as you go further. Make sure the spacers are keeping the tile level.

Step 8: Before applying a grout, you have set your work overnight. Take note that natural stone is very absorbent, so you have to make sure to lubricate the tiles surface prior to smearing the grout. Now you can apply a rubber float once the grout is mixed. And then push it smoothly into the spaces.

Step 9: After applying the grout fully, you need to wait for few more minutes before cleaning again the tile surface with your wet sponge.

Step 10: Finally, if you prefer applying stone sealant, you can do it once the grout has dried full.

Now the question is, should you hire a professional installer or just do it yourself? 

• Home Interior
• Kitchen Countertop

October 12, 2017