Installing a Stone Backsplash in Your Kitchen

Aug. 7, 2012 - PRLog -- Maybe your countertops and cabinets don’t quite coordinate. Or maybe you want to liven up your kitchen without completely remodeling it. A tile or stone backsplash is an easy and relatively inexpensive way to update, accent, and freshen up your kitchen walls. If you have just a bit of home improvement know-how, installing a stone-tile backsplash in your kitchen won’t be too difficult. And because it’s a fairly small area to tackle, this project shouldn’t take more than a few hours of active work.

Here’s what you’ll need for success:

Stones or tile you’ve picked out for your backsplash

Tape measure and pencil

Notched trowel

Level

Thin set mortar

Wet saw (You can rent a wet saw with a diamond blade at most home improvement stores or tool rental stores—no need to invest for this project!)

1.   Using the tape measure, pencil, and level, carefully measure and mark where you want to install the stone backsplash. (You can also do this ahead of time by creating a template from butcher paper, and arranging the stones on this before beginning to work on the wall. That way, you can cut any stones you need to ahead of time.) Spread thin set mortar over the area with a notched trowel. (If you’ve never done this before, you might want to ask a friend or neighbor to help you out or supervise.)

2.   Starting at the bottom and center, press the stone tiles into place, leaving ¼ to ½ inch of space between the stones to create a more natural-looking pattern. Place the stones about ¼ inch from where you actually want them, then slide them into place to ensure that the back of the tile is adequately coated with adhesive. Leave ¼ inch of space between the countertop and the bottom stones.

3.   Build out from the bottom and middle toward the edges of the selected area, varying the size, color, and position of the stones as you see fit.

4.   Use smaller stones to fill in the edges, creating a smooth border. If you need to, you can use a wet saw to trim end pieces of stone to make a smooth edge.

5.   Take a break! Allow the mortar to set overnight.

6.   Thoroughly clean the stones, then apply a sealer. Because stone tiles have surface variations and are porous, sealer is necessary for ensuring easier grout removal later.

7.   Apply grout to the spaces between stones with a grout bag and smooth with a damp sponge. (Don’t apply grout to the space between the stone backsplash and the counter.)

8.   Apply a line of caulk to the area between the countertop and the backsplash.

9.   Wait at least a week before applying a final seal to the stone backsplash. Clean the face of the stones before sealing, then use a foam brush to apply the sealer. Apply several coats to areas that are subject to more abuse, like behind the stove or sink.

DIY projects offer a sense of accomplishment when you decorate your home the way you want. You may also want to consider other accents in decorating your home such as fireplaces and patios. That gives your home an extra comfortable and welcoming touch.

You can find more information on home accents and furniture by visiting http://www.swansonsfireplaceandpatio.com/.