A tile backsplash is a beautiful way to create texture and give character to the room, whether it’s a kitchen backsplash or a bathroom backsplash. A modern mosaic tile backsplash can transform a simple, unassuming space in the beautiful cove for cooking. The mosaic tile backsplash peel and stick versions of the tile are easy to purchase and straight forward to fix.
Continue reading for a complete handy guide on how to install mosaic tile backsplash easily:
Measurements & Taping
The first essential step to installing mosaic tile backsplash is to take accurate measurements of the wall between the countertop and the cabinets. This includes the length and breadth of the wall-space. Using a good ruler, measure, mark, and note down the dimensions of the wall and make sure you have enough tile-mat sheets to cover the wall.
- Based on the length and width of the wall, calculate the square footage of the wall and if you have the necessary amount of thin-set mortar or mastic and tiles. By multiplying the height and length of the wall space, the square footage can be determined.
- Use painter’s tape or masking tape to line the edges of the countertop, the bottom line of the hanging cabinets if any. Creating a border with the tape will do two things: first, it will protect wood or granite materials of the cabinet/countertop from being damaged by the mortar or tiles. Secondly, it will create a clear demarcation for tile-setting.
- Next, cover power outlets and other wall fixtures with the tape that will have to be “cut out” of the tile sheet eventually.
Prepping the Wall Area
- Clean the wall space with a damp cloth first, and then a dry one. The idea is free the wall from dust or contaminants that would interfere with the mortar or mastic.
- Make sure any holes or bumps or unevenness in the wall surface are rectified.
Prep the Workspace
- The next step is to clear the countertop of all items: appliances, cutlery, utensils, and other paraphernalia that will only get dirty or damaged during the mosaic tile backsplash installation.
- This may involve moving the cooking stove and disconnecting and removing larger appliances such as microwaves, juicers, kettles, etc.
- Place a protective covering over the empty countertop to prevent damage to it from falling debris, dust, or staining from the mixing agents. You can use any old tarp or plastic sheet for this, but it is advisable to use a heavy board such as cardboard or acrylic sheet. Tape it down to the sides of the countertop to prevent it from shifting about.
Test the Tile
- Take your tile sheets and place them on the demarcated areas to see the correctness of fit. Then you can cut the tiles accordingly to make sure there are enough pieces to cover the wall and make space for the electric outlets. Use tools such as tile nippers & tile cutters to achieve this, especially for ceramic tiles. Some larger cut-touts may require the use of a wet-saw.
- Don’t worry about empty areas where the sheet does not fit; you can place individual single tile pieces to fill up these gaps eventually. That is the beauty of a mosaic tile backsplash.
Mortar Preparation
- In case you are not using a ready-to-install tile setting mat, mosaic backsplash installation will require you to use a setting agent such as Mastic or Thin-Set Mortar.
- To prepare the agent, carefully follow the instructions on the mortar package. Usually, it requires mixing the powder slowly into a bucket of water.
Layering the Mortar
- Apply the prepared material onto the walls using a V-Notch Trowel. It is essential to use only a small-spaced V-Notch Trowel for this purpose as it is more comfortable to manoeuvre into zig-zag patterns in small spaces – ideal for fixing mosaic tiles.
- Cover the wall with the material
Lay the Mosaic Tile
- Upon installing glass mosaic tile backsplash, laying the tiles is a crucial component. Carefully place the cut-out tile mats onto the wall based on the calculations and demarcations previously made.
- Make sure that the cut-outs in the tile sheet align appropriately with the electrical outlets.
- Once this is done, the let tile and mortar dry overnight or 24 hours, again check the label to know the exact time.
Apply the Grout
- Once dry, wipe the tiles clean with water or a damp sponge to remove the excess setting agents.
- Prepare the grout as per package instructions and apply liberally at an angle using a grout float for the best results. Keep removing excess grout as you go along to make sure only the lines between the tile pieces are filled.
- Using a wet cloth or a sponge steadily clean off the extra grout on the tile surface. Do this several times in batches with less water to prevent washing away of the grout.
Let It Set
- After 24 hours, your mosaic tiles should be ready to use.
- For added safety and durability, you may choose to apply a grout sealant on top of the tiles.
Enjoy your display.