Installing a Kitchen Tile Backsplash - DIY Home Improvement Guides - How to Repair and Remodel your Bathroom, Kitchen and more

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Home Improvement > Kitchen > Installing a Kitchen Tile Backsplash

How to Install a Ceramic Tile Backsplash above a Kitchen Countertop, Sink or Range

How to remove range, prepare the surface, apply thin set mortar, set field and decorative tile, apply grout and clean tile face. Includes removing and replacing a kitchen vent hood.

Step by Step Instructions with Video

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Step
1

Remove Range and Vent Hood

Slide out the range, disconnect the gas line or electric. Shut off power, disconnect vent hood wiring, remove screws, lower vent hood.
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Step
2

Apply This Set Mortar to Wall

Apply mortar using a notched trowel. Keep the trowel at a 45 degree angle to create ridges in the mortar that are uniform in height.
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Step
3

Set Field Tiles in Position

Press field tiles into the thin set mortar applying moderate pressure. Use vinyl grout spacers two keep grout lines uniform
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Step
4

Set Accent Tiles in Place

Create interest and detail by setting decorative strips and art tiles among field tiles
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Step
5

Cut Tiles to Shape and Size

Cut full tiles using a scoring tile cutter. Use tile nippers to clean up cuts or create curved shapes.
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Step
6

Apply Grout

Apply grout using a foam rubber float. Hold the float at a 45 degree angle and move diagonally from corner to corner to avoid pulling the grout out of the joints. Remove excess grout from face of tile.
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Step
7

Wash off Grout Haze

Let grout set until firm in the joints, usually 20 -30 minutes, then remove any remaining film with a grout sponge. Wring excess water from the sponge and using light to moderate pressure,
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Step
8

Install New Vent Hood and Reinstall Range

Set the new vent hood in place, attach with screws, connect wiring and turn on power.
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