DIY Backsplash: How to Update Your Kitchen in a Flash

If your backsplash is just painted wall, then you are ahead of the game and can skip this step. But if you already have tile, vinyl, or another material then you’ll need to pry it off before you can put anything new in its place. A Dremel tool can make it easier to get the first few tiles loose, but expect to chip out most of them with a hammer and chisel. And if your tiles are attached directly to the drywall, then be prepared to replace the drywall as well.

The options for a new tile backsplash design can feel almost endless: You’ll find glass tile in plain squares or complicated mosaics, traditional white ceramic subway tile, and designer options that are hand-painted, cut into intricate shapes, or customized to your exact specifications. The prices vary widely, too, so decide on a budget before you start shopping. You’ll also need to choose a grout color, which can alter the finished look of your wall – white tile with dark grout looks very different from monochromatic white on white.

Attaching your tiles to backer board will help protect your drywall and give the tiles a sturdier adhesion. Once you have it in place, mark the center of the area you plan to tile and extend the line down from there – you’re marking your starting point, which will be the bottom center. If you are planning a tile design, then you should lay it out before you start attaching tiles to the wall to make sure it fits properly (and guarantee that you like it).

Use a notched trowel to apply mastic or thinset to your walls (the tile dealer can help you make sure you’re using a trowel with the right size notches, and help you figure out whether thinset or mastic is right for your project). Apply mastic or thinset to a small area – about the size of 8 tiles – and press your tiles in to set them. Spacers may also come in handy here so that your finished product is neat and straight.

After letting your tiles set for 24 hours in the mastic or thinset, you’re ready to grout. Mix the grout with water according to the instructions on the bag, and use a grout float to spread it over your tiles and fill in the spaces between them. Then use a damp sponge to wipe off any excess grout and let the backsplash dry before buffing with a dry cloth to make your new backsplash shiny and bright.