A tiled backsplash makes a great addition to our kitchen. It is durable, easy to clean and can enhance the kitchen’s overall look and functionality. In this demonstration, we will be installing a two foot high backsplash with glass tile accents. A substrate of backer board is the first choice for a new work. This is what we will be doing. The tile can be successfully attached to existing walls using mastic. Mastic is a specially formulated, ready to use adhesive. It does not require mixing and it is better than mortar at holding tile to a vertical surface. Before applying mastic to the wall, lightly hand sand the surface with 80 grit sandpaper to roughen it which have bond the mastic to the wall. Do not send away the paint.
When you are done, wipe off the dust with a damp rug. On a counter below the space, lay out the row of tiles wide enough to fill the area you are tiling. Adjust the row left or right so any cut tiles will be the same width on both ends. On the wall, mark the location of one edge of the tile that is closest to the center.
With the notch trowel, spread enough thin set or mastic across the wall to the bottom row of the tiles. Hold the trowel in a slight angle and use a sweeping motion. Place the edge of the first tile on the plumb line you drew and press it firmly into the mastic or thin set. Use shims to leave room at the bottom of the tile or a thin bit of cock or spaces will also work. Make sure the base of the tile is parallel to the top of the counter.
Continue setting the bottom row of tiles working out in both directions from the middle. When you completed the bottom row, continue working upward or row at a time until you reach the top.
When you are done tiling, allow the mastic or thin set to dry overnight before grouting.
Grouting fills in the space between the tiles. It is messy so be sure to cover any areas that you do not want to get dirty. Using a margin towel, mix the powdered grout with liquid and apply it as recommended. Skim off the excess grout off with the edge of the float. To avoid digging into the joints, move the float diagonally across the tiles. Allow the grout to set to a paddy like consistency. When a thumbnail pressed against it does not leave an impression, it is hard enough for the final clean up. With a damp sponge, wipe the tiles diagonally to clean them. Rinse the sponge frequently in clean water. Remove any remaining haze. Let the grout cure completely as recommended by the manufacturer. Once it is cured, apply a food safe sealer with the sponge. Sealing gives the grout greater water and mildew resistance and it also helps keep it from getting dirty. Make sure to wipe off any excess within ten minutes. Do not let it dry on the tile. Squeeze a thin bit of Tub ‘n’ Tile coat into the joints at the very bottom of the backsplash in any corners and between the tiles and any cabinets. Smooth it with a wet sponge or finger and you are done.
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