Adding a tiled splashback is one of the quickest ways to refresh your kitchen while protecting your walls from splashes and spills – and doing it yourself is a lot easier than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to tile a kitchen splashback step-by-step so you can start your next DIY project with confidence.
Looking for the perfect kitchen tiles? Raynesway’s got you covered. Visit our Derby tile showroom Raynesway Tile & Bathroom Warehouse or get in touch with the team today.
What you’ll need
It’s a good idea to get everything ready before you make a start. Having the right tools to hand will make the job much easier and help you avoid unnecessary delays.
You’ll need:
- Tiles of your choice
- Tile adhesive
- Tile spacers
- Notched trowel
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Pencil or marker
- Tile cutter or wet saw
- Bucket and sponge
- Grout
- Grout float
- Silicone sealant
- Safety gear (gloves and goggles)
How to tile a kitchen splashback: step-by-step
While tiling a splashback might seem like a big job, it’s actually pretty straightforward when you break it down into simple steps.
1. Prepare your wall
Start by making sure your wall is clean, dry, and smooth. Remove any grease, dust, or loose material, and fill in any cracks or holes if needed.
A well-prepped surface makes all the difference when it comes to how well your tiles stick and how neat the finished result looks.
2. Measure and plan
Planning the layout of your tiles carefully is key to getting a professional finish. Measure the area you want to tile and mark out your starting point using a pencil and spirit level.
It might be a good idea to lay out a row of tiles along the worktop first to see how everything will fit together before you begin.
3. Apply the adhesive
Using a notched trowel, spread the tile adhesive onto a small section of the wall. It’s best to work in sections so the adhesive doesn’t dry before you’ve placed the tiles.
Hold the trowel at an angle to create ridges in the adhesive. This helps the tiles grip properly and stay in place.
4. Fix the tiles in place
Press each tile firmly into the adhesive, using spacers between them to keep the gaps even.
Take your time here and check regularly with a spirit level to make sure everything is straight. Small adjustments are much easier to make while the adhesive is still wet
Continue this across the wall until the main area is covered.
5. Cut tiles where needed
When you reach edges, corners, or areas around sockets, you’ll need to cut tiles down to size. A tile cutter or wet saw will give you the cleanest finish.
Measure carefully before cutting and always make sure you’re wearing the right safety gear.
6. Leave to set
Once all your tiles are in place, leave the adhesive to dry fully. This usually takes around 24 hours, but make sure you check the instructions on your adhesive and leave it for as long as necessary.
Avoid touching or moving the tiles while they’re setting.
7. Apply the grout
When the adhesive is dry, you can move on to grouting. Use a grout float to press grout into the gaps between the tiles.
It’s best to work diagonally across the tiles to make sure the joints are filled properly. Wipe away any excess with a damp sponge, rinsing it regularly as you go.
8. Seal the edges
Finish the job by applying silicone sealant along the edges where the tiles meet the worktop and walls.
This helps protect against water and gives your splashback a neat, finished look.
Need help choosing the perfect kitchen tiles?
If you’re planning a kitchen update, choosing the right tiles is just as important as fitting them correctly.
At Raynesway Tile Warehouse, we stock a wide range of kitchen tiles to suit every style, from modern gloss finishes to more natural, textured looks. Whether you’re after something simple or a standout feature, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
Visit our Derby showroom Raynesway Tile & Bathroom Warehouse to explore our full range or get in touch if you need some friendly advice before you start your project.
FAQs
How doable is it to tile your own kitchen splashback?
It’s generally fairly easy to tile your own kitchen splashback. Just make sure you plan everything carefully, have all the right equipment to hand, and double-check your measurements to ensure they’re spot-on. If you follow the steps we’ve outlined in this blog, you shouldn’t have any issues doing it yourself!
How long does it take to tile a kitchen splashback?
Most splashbacks can be tiled in a day, although it depends on the size of the area. You’ll also need to come back the following day to apply the sealant.
What tiles are best for a kitchen splashback?
Ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles are popular choices because they’re durable and easy to clean. This makes them perfect for busy kitchen spaces.
Can I tile over existing tiles?
In some cases, yes. However, the existing tiles must be perfectly solid, completely clean, and flat. If your old tiles are lifting or damaged, it’s safer to tear the old ones out.
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