Backsplash Tile -- 5 Tips

Backsplash tile can really set off a tile counter top project. Once the top of the counter is done, installing a back splash is a natural. There are however many little details that can bite you right above that counter. Here are 5 tips for getting the job finished properly.

Electrical Outlets Are Shocking

Death stalks the unaware right in that electrical outlet above the counter. You may be able to avoid dealing with electricity in most tile projects but probably not in this area. Treat the outlets as if they have power in them since they could, even if you think they are turned off.

Check local codes, but electrical outlet boxes generally should be no more than 1/4 inch back from the finished wall. Box extensions are available to bring the box to the right location.

Cuts, Cuts And More Cuts

Behind the cabinet presents many opportunities for practice with a tile saw. That's because often windows, doors and corners all come into play along with that electrical outlet. If you decide to extend the tile all the way up to cabinets, tile must also be cut at the tile intersection. Planning for the cuts up front can speed the task.

A Solid Foundation

Tiles can be set over all kinds of materials and likely the wall surface that you have will work as a base for the tile. But the surface must be clean so that the adhesive will stick. It also must be rigid so that no flexing of the finished surface will occur. Often cement backer board installation makes the best surface for tile installation. But likely that step can be bypassed.

Spacing Notes

Space tile one grout width above counter top tiles. This can be easily accomplished using tile spacers. This whole area is a perfect place to use tile spacers for sure. That is because the tile and grout are so visible in this prominent location.

Bullnose Solution

Bullnose tile work especially well if the tile are only going on one tile high or at any height short of the overhead cabinets. Otherwise regular field tile can be used and then cut to fit at the overhead cabinets.

Backsplash construction lends a really practical finish to a tile counter top project. Of course it adds beauty too as a really fine way to accent the whole tile counter project. Like many smaller projects, the tile laying in this area really slows down because of the large number of obstacles over the counter and the great amount of trim work necessary to really finish the job.
Our articles includes free hints for tiling a shower.

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