Back splash tile- the two day kitchen remodel.

at | Category: Kitchen remodeling, Tile

This past month I have had the pleasure of tiling two kitchen back splashes. I love doing these as they are quick ways to transform a kitchen into something new and fresh. I call these types of jobs mini remodels, and they are very economical solutions that give a new look to your tired spaces. They also add a lot of value to your home for the minimal investment they require.

Working with tile can be challenging, and the tools required may be out of many DIY’ers budget. You can however rent a tile saw at several retailers, and now that project becomes a little more doable. There are several things you must do to ensure a lasting installation. First you have to have a good sound, level, and plumb substrate to install on. When doing a back splash gypsum wallboard will suffice provided there is no wallpaper that may cause adhesion issues.

I normally choose a thinset mortar for my installations as they are worry free in terms of adhesion, and have been around for centuries. You can use pre-mix mastic’s for this application as well, and there have been advances in the chemistry these acrylic adhesives.

Take your time when you determine what tile you would like to use, after all you will be stuck with it both literally and figuratively. I would suggest either hiring a designer, or visiting a tile studio where there are plenty of wall samples to choose from. You can actually put your hands on the tile installed in sample walls. This is important and I think the feel of hard surfaces is as important as the look. You can also buy several samples and take them home, and try you own layouts. Simply lay them on the counter or next to the wall you plan to install on and inspect them.

If tackling a tile install is more than you want to take on then there is always the option of hiring a professional tile installer. Hiring a pro will ensure that your install will be done correctly and last for many years.

Check out the photos below of our last two installs. These two jobs happen to be neighbors, when they saw the beautiful job JHC did they just had to hire us for their own projects.