Finishing Phase|Step 28 of 33
Install Backsplash
A backsplash is where function meets design. It protects your walls from splashes and gives your kitchen personality.
Time Required
4-8 hours
Cost
$200-$1,500
Difficulty
Moderate to Hard
Backsplash Material Options
Ceramic/Porcelain Tile
$2-$15/sq ftClassic choice. Subway tile is timeless. Endless colors and patterns. DIY-friendly with patience.
Peel-and-Stick Tile
$5-$15/sq ftNo grout, no mess. Great for rentals. Quality varies widely. Not as durable as real tile.
Natural Stone
$10-$40/sq ftMarble, travertine, slate. Unique natural beauty. Requires sealing. More maintenance.
Glass Tile
$8-$30/sq ftModern, reflective. Easy to clean. Harder to cut and install. Shows imperfections in wall.
Slab (Quartz/Granite)
$40-$100/sq ft installedMatch your countertop. Seamless, no grout lines. Dramatic look. Professional install required.
Popular Tile Patterns
- Subway (brick pattern): Timeless. Offset rows. Most forgiving for DIY.
- Stacked (grid): Modern, clean lines. Harder to keep straight.
- Herringbone: Elegant, classic. More cuts required. Best with subway tiles.
- Chevron: Similar to herringbone but creates V-shape. Trendy.
- Vertical stack: Makes ceilings feel taller. Modern look.
Installation Steps
- 1Prep the wall: Clean, patch holes, sand smooth. Wall must be flat.
- 2Plan your layout: Dry-fit tiles. Center the pattern. Mark reference lines.
- 3Apply thinset: Use notched trowel. Only spread what you can tile in 15 min.
- 4Set tiles: Press firmly. Use spacers for even grout lines. Check level often.
- 5Cut tiles: Wet saw for straight cuts. Nippers for outlets. Measure twice.
- 6Let cure: Wait 24 hours before grouting.
Pro Tips
- •Remove outlet covers: Tile underneath. Extend outlet boxes if needed with box extenders.
- •Start from center: Work outward so cut tiles are at edges, not center.
- •Rent a wet saw: About $50/day. Much better cuts than score-and-snap.
- •Order 10-15% extra: For cuts, mistakes, and future repairs.