How to Install Tile Backsplash

Using a level, attach a ledger board — a sturdy piece of lumber attached for support. In this case, we’re using a straight 1-inch-by-4-inch board. Screw the ledger board to the wall studs where the bottom edge of the backsplash will be. The ledger board temporarily supports tile until the adhesive cures, keeping it level where there is no countertop.

Clean walls with a mixture of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sand or degloss glossy surfaces.

Check the flatness and condition of the wall. Fill dents, dips and ripples more than 1/16 inch deep with joint compound. Let dry, sand smooth and prime.

Dry-lay tile horizontally on the countertop along the wall using spacers and check the ends. If cut tile will be too narrow, adjust the layout to allow you to cut wider pieces at both sides.

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.

Press the first piece of tile into the wall with a little twist, leaving a 1/8-inch expansion gap at the countertop. Press against it with a rubber float to seat it in the adhesive.

Working in small sections, repeat the procedure with additional pieces using spacers to ensure even spacing. If you need to make a cut, mark the tile. For larger tile cuts, set the tile in a tile cutter mesh side up, and score the face. Break each piece along the line. For smaller tile cuts, use nippers.

Let the thinset/adhesive dry for 24 hours. Then mix the grout according to directions.

Apply grout diagonally across tiles using a rubber float to press it into the joints. Wait 10 minutes, then wipe away excess with a sponge using a diagonal motion. Rinse your sponge often. A slight haze may form, but will clean away later with a haze remover you can buy separately.

Fill the expansion gaps with caulk or silicone sealant.

Add box extenders to outlets and switches to bring them level with the new tile backsplash. Replace the outlet and switch covers.