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To install a new backsplash:
1. Since the tile will be heavy, make certain all surfaces
are well-prepared so the tile will successfully adhere to the wall. Sand the
walls with a coarse sandpaper wrapped around a sanding block. This will
enable a better bond. Wipe down all surfaces with denatured alcohol to
remove any oily debris that may have been left behind from normal kitchen
use. |
3. Create ridges in the adhesive by making little squiggles (squiggles - that's technical term!) with the edge of the trowel.
4. If the area you are tiling doesn't have a countertop or
a piece of trim along its lower edge, you will need to put a temporary strip
along the bottom to support the weight of the tiles.
5. Press the tiles into place. Even if you think you have
the tiles straight, do yourself a favor and use a level to make sure. Use
those little plastic thingies (thingies - that's also a technical term!) to
make certain the spaces between the tiles are even.
6. Tap each tile with a rubber mallet to set them. Careful!
Not too hard or you will be having mosaics instead of square tiles!
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7. Allow the adhesive to set (see the manufacturer's
instructions for times) Yes, you DO have to read the instructions!
8. Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's
instructions or buy ready-mixed grout.
9. Spread grout over the tiles with a tool called a rubber
grout float (it doesn't float, so why do they call it a…oh, never mind!)
Work on about 5-10 square feet at a time.
10. After the grout partially sets, wipe it off with a damp
sponge. Be careful that you don't pull the grout from between the joints.
11. After you have gone over the grout once, use the sponge
to level the joints between the tiles.
12. When the grout has completely dried, remove the haze
you see on the time by rubbing it with a cheesecloth or other soft, clean
cloth.
13. In two to four weeks, apply a sealer to the grout.
Voila! You have done it! Your tile backslash is a wonder to behold! Now…what
shall we try next?
About the Author - Pamela Cole Harris is an editor and
writer with 35 years experience. Visit her website,
http://www.homeandgardenmakeover.com for a
free newsletter with remodeling, home improvement and decorating ideas for
the financially challenged, creatively deficient and technologically
illiterate.
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Additional Kitchen Design Resources
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