Tools and Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Prepare the Walls for Tile

Tiling a kitchen backsplash can instantly upgrade a home. Before you start setting a tile backsplash, you'll need to understand the proper steps to take to make this a successful project.

A tile backsplash in the kitchen may be applied over clean, level drywall since sinks aren't considered wet areas, like showers, that require backer board. Before you begin laying backsplash tile, watch What's Inside My Wall?

Also, remember that using the correct trowel and mortar is critical to a successful tile project. Floor or wall, indoors or out, tile type and size are factors.

Clean & Repair the Wall. Install a Ledger Board.

Plan the Tile Layout

Tile backsplashes need a 1/8-inch expansion gap around the perimeter where the tile meets the cabinets and countertops.

Tile Tools & Supplies

Shop Now

Levels

Shop Now

Adjust the Layout to Fit the Space

Check the vertical layout. Cut tile is best hidden under cabinets, but you may have to cut from the bottom if your countertop isn't level.

First, use a level to find the lowest point of the countertop. Hold a tile at this spot, accounting for a 1/8-inch expansion gap. Mark the wall at the top of the tile. Then use a level to extend the line along the work area. This line serves as your cutting guide to fit tile along the counter.

To see where the tile will end at the top of the installation, make a jury stick. Mark a straight board using the tile and spacers for the vertical layout. Hold it up to the wall to check. If you have tiny slivers of tile at the top, adjust the layout down and redraw your reference line.

Tile the Backsplash

Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions on mixing and drying times.

Install, Grout & Finish the Backsplash

Option 1
Mix thinset or your chosen tile adhesive according to directions and spread on a small section of the wall with a drywall trowel. It's important to work in small sections because thinset and other tile adhesives dry quickly. Comb over it with a notched trowel.

Option 2
Peel-and-stick tile backsplash mats are also available that bond instantly to wall surfaces when pressed firmly with a grout float. This type of stick-on tile backsplash allows you to tile and grout the same day, replacing traditional thinset and simplifying tile installation. Use the mats on clean, flat, indoor surfaces such as backsplashes, countertops, and tub or shower walls. Avoid using them for floors, ceilings, fireplaces, steam rooms, shower floors and surfaces that will be submerged in water. Mats don’t replace waterproofing products for tile. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation details. For more information, see Tile a Backsplash Without Toil.

Tip

Use white thinset/adhesive for glass tile since it may show through. Don't cover your layout reference lines with thinset/adhesive.

Let's Get Started

A tile backsplash protects your walls, while beautifying your kitchen. Lowe's carries a wide array of wall tile options in various shapes, colors and patterns. Are you looking for inspiration? Check out our guide on trending kitchen backsplashes.

Once you choose the tile, we'll show you how to install it using a few tools. If you're ready to get started, shop for this project online or visit your local Lowe's store.

If you prefer to have someone else handle the installation, check out our professional backsplash & wall tile installation service.

How to Install a Tile Backsplash

Key Takeaways

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Prepare the Walls for Tile

Backsplash Tile

Accent & Trim Tile

Wall Tile