Add Backsplash to Kitchen

These days, the retro design is the in thing in living rooms. Do not let your kitchen be spared this wonderful trend. Homeowners are using textured glass reminiscent of the 50s as a wonderful kitchen backsplash. Nevertheless, ceramic tiles probably provide your kitchen the best when it comes to possibilities. They come in various colors, finishes and textures. They are affordable, easy to install and as soon as they are installed, they provide a customized look to your kitchen. Keep in mind that when using ceramic tiles, the grout should be resealed and cleaned regularly.

When installing a backsplash, you will need materials which include measuring tape, tile saw or scribe, mastic, grooved towel 1/8", sponge and buckets, gum rubber grout float, 3' level or straight edge, chalk line for long scribes, measuring tape, pencil or wax marker, tile nippers and ceramic tiles. Here are steps when installing a back splash to your kitchen:

1. Measure the wall space and purchase the materials. Measure beginning at the countertop to the cabinet, measure length of the wall between the countertop and cabinets. Multiply the two measurements to determine the square footage.

2. When you arrive home, clean the wall area using soapy water, allow to dry and sand burrs off the wall. Put a straight line 1/16 inch above the countertop. Use grooved trowel in spreading mastic in approximately 1x1 increments, enough to spread under the whole tile or mat. Lay the tiles and let cure for at least eighteen hours or whatever the manufacturer recommends.

3. When tile is set the following day, clean with soap and water and scrape excess mastic off. Mix the grout to a paste, use the gum rubber grout float and mash grout completely into joints. Using a wet sponge, clean grout off the top of the tiles lightly. When you are finished, allow grout to dry for a few hours.

Adding a backsplash to your kitchen will make the area appear brighter and more cheerful. It is also a good investment that does not only enhance the look of your old kitchen but also increases the value of your property.