Quick tip. When using the "nibblers" to cut tile, wear safety glasses of course. Using a freezer bag, put the tile inside and chip away as needed. Saves time later trying to clean up all those sharp fragments that go flying all over the place.
Fantastic again! Just a couple of things I learned doing tile work 1) Round holes are a bitch. You were lucky. Typically a tile get cut in half and using the nibbler a hole is created from both sides. Plan on using 2 or 3 tiles at each hole - you will trash a couple. 2) Never use a light grout on floors. It picks up dirt and shows a traffic pattern 3) Grout comes in two types - sanded and unsanded. Sanded grout is for larger joints and has a rough texture. Unsanded is for tighter joints and has a harder more impervious surface. Read the instructions regarding joint size. Consider this when picking tile. 4) if your tile isn't glazed you need to be careful with grout. It may get in the texture and leave a "shadow" along the joints that is impossible to remove. Really true if you are using an epoxy grout which is the most stain resistant. 5) Grout can also be sealed. Floors should be sealed. 6) The end of the caulk tube can be shaped to a 90 angle so it fits in the joint. If you can stick a nail in the tube hole its too big.
We did this in our kitchen after we got tired of the paint. So many outlets/light switches - only got to do a few spots where I could do full sheets. To keep the tile from sliding down we put in finishing nails under the top row of tiles then pulled the nails the next day when we did the grout. Turned out perfect and was a great project for my wife and I.
just an aside there are two types of grout, for the tiles you are using "sanded grout/ contains sand particles" is fine but when you use "glass type tiles" "Non sanded" is recommended, for the sanded type will scratch the surface of the glass type when floating. Nice job on the back splash.
Non sanded grout is recmmended for backsplash because it cleans up and lets less water through it to the wall. Bear in mind you need a relatively thin grout line to use unsanded grout. 1/2" is too big 1/4" is okay but under 1/8" is better. If you use sanded grout make sure and thoroughly seal the grout. If your backsplash tile is a natural stone it too needs to be sealed.
I used to sell tile in a tile showroom. One tip about cutting tile: Not all types of tile cut well on a snap cutter like the one used in this video. True, LOTS of tiles do just fine. However, there are just certain types that will NEVER snap off in a straight line. Such as some types of Mexican tile, some (not all) Italian tiles, and other handmade tiles. It has to do with the clay makeup, as well as how they are fired. There's nothing wrong with those tiles, they just won't cooperate with a snap tile cutter. So those types will need to be cut with a wet saw. If you're planning on purchasing those types of tiles, and you're doing it yourself, ask the showroom sales person if your choice will cut with a snap tile cutter. If you're not buying from a place that has a showroom, and if you are renting a snap tile cutter, try a few, and see if they cut straight. If your first 2 or 3 tiles don't snap off with a perfectly straight line, it's probably a good idea to give up on that tile cutter, before you ruin a whole bunch of tiles. The alternative is to rent a Wet Saw. Unless of coarse you've got a whole bunch to take your chances with!! Renting yourself a wet saw for your project is easy, as well as using one. You'll probably enjoy that saw more than you expected!! And you'll have much less wasted, broken tiles when the job's all done. ♡
One last suggestion for anyone doing this. Buy a 60 grit or 80 grit diamond sanding sponge and use it to smooth/round all cut tile edges and it will make your cut pieces look great!
I am doing this project right now in my kitchen using mat-mounted subway tiles, but I have 27' x 18" of tile to install, and I am doing tile over tile, which requires special surface prep and use of mortar instead of Type 1 adhesive. Instead of a chalk line I opted to use a laser level to keep the pattern straight and level. Getting around outlets is a challenge, and I have been doing what you do - removing individual tiles from the mats to get clearance around the outlet, then cutting those to fit and installing them. I have the same tile cutter as you do, I believe. If you need to cut U-shaped pieces, however, you really need a tile saw and angle grinder. It's too easy to break the tiles with the nippers.
Perfect timing...you seem to release videos on similar projects I'm currently planning. I'm using ceramic wood tiles.. I've done floors but not yet walls and I know it's almost the same process, just on a vertical plane. I wasn't ready to decide on how or where to begin and proceed. This video just like the others, it helps me out a lot and is just the inspiration I needed for getting things rolling...and for that I thank, appreciate and admire your skill, knowledge, passion and cleverness.
Great video. I did the same about 25 years ago. But as I have moved and partially redone our lighting in this house this job is very appropriate especially as I can add insulation to this 100 year old house where I know there is none. Just amazing how this house was build especially as I live in Northern Ontario, Canada! The new lights look and work great.
Get rid of the grout haze with a dry towel! You don't need to rinse it 15 times with a wet sponge. I'm always amazed how many people have this problem, especially in "how to tile" vids. believe it or not I learned this trick from the instructions ;P
Laser level is a game changer for tiling walls. Also, grouting can be pretty nerve wracking if you do by yourself. Also, make sure to plan out your edge treatment before starting.
A decent alternative to just smashing the grout all over the tile is to use a piping bag to go over the lines and then push those piped lines into the spaces. It takes more time to get the grout on, but it creates less waste and saves a bunch of time on cleanup
with small tiles the lines of the trowel don't matter really, air can escape, but when its bigger you want 'm all to be in the same direction so the air under it has the space to escape from those lines. Not too important for walls, but it is to floors where you don't want any air under, for air under will be cause for breaking tiles.
Great video, but how and what did you use to extend your outlets and should I go to the bottom of my counter or do I need to leave room for caulking? Thank you
A tip I got from the Home RenoVision DIY channel - let the haze dry and then rub off with a completely dry sponge. It will rub off... never done it this way but an interesting idea.
Beautiful look! It really makes the kitchen look complete. Very straight-forward and now I feel even I could attempt this job. I was always intimidated by the very thought of doing it myself. Thanks for instilling the confidence needed.
Thank you for the video, so helpful. Any chance you could post where you purchased the tiles you used and what they are called? I absolutely love the look, and we will be adding a kitchen backslash in a couple of weeks. Thanks so much!
I have the same color cabinets and granite- This was so helpful! I am considering backsplash tile and feel much more confident in doing the project myself~ Thanks!
This backsplash is a great idea for your kitchen. It added a nice color pop. Your explanations and visual how to made this an enjoyable and highly educational video. Thanks for posting it. Stay safe.
I've done alot of tiling over the years from showers to walls to backsplashes. Just curious as to why you didn't continue the tile around that corner to end at the edge of the cabinets and fridge? It just looks unfinished to me but that is strictly my opinion. Once you know the steps, tiling is very easy to do for the homeowner.
Great vid. There is one thing I would suggest to try differently. When you use a float to squeegee off the excess grout keep rinsing off the float and have a little water on it while squeegeeing. This will save you much time for cleaning up the hazy residue at the end.
Hi and i wnjoyed learning about how to do my own tile for my tiny home..it really helps. Im born and was raised in Tx too, now living in a different state Arizona, to be exact. Your video, was inspirational, very clear and staright to the point.
i find it easier to clean the haze off the tiles by first using a dry scotch bright sponge thingy to remove most of the haziness, then go over with a wet sponge to take the rest off... that way you dont have to go over it many times with the wet sponge... it cleans it faster!
The edges of the window are done in a way I've never seen before. Could you post something about how they were done? Very nice look, thanks for posting the video.
I agree about doing the layout to fit your space instead of always making things layout even ... however you should always look at how things end in the not important side/window/anyplace else you have to cut, because you don't want to have impossible cuts when you come to those areas.
Hey April, I'm glad you are doing well and busy as ever. I was there when you did a video about starting your channel, you have come a long way and done good. Your DIY videos are a money saver, why not. Remember the Chain Saw carved Rooster, Chicken you made, I do. All the Best in '21, C.
You can always use “grout caulk” instead of floating the grout. May not be conventional, but actually is far better on a backsplash. Easily installed, no mess in your existing kitchen, grout as you have time, easy cleanup, you get the same look, water proof too, plus, no sealing required....
The backsplash looks fantastic! I rent my apartment so sadly won't be doing this but we will see what my potential future home may look like if I need to come back years from now to re-watch it and use your advice. 😂
I *never* use a level when doing projects like this... even if something is perfectly level & straight, if the countertop/window/ceiling/cabinets/whatever around it are not, it's going to look bad. Saw a documentary one time that went over the Parthenon - it has no straight lines in the entire building, but rather was built with all subtle curves to compensate for the curvature of the human eye to *look* straight. I took that to heart in everything I do & make things look right. BTW, first relevant comment. =)
I have always been scared to try laying tile. However, this does not look too bad. This video is great encouragement with helpful information! Thanks April!!!
Looks nice, but don’t think I woulda used mastic for this, as a kitchen “can” become wet; and that’s where mastic doesn’t work so well. But, every job diff and works for you, that cool👍🏻 Do like the color and look of kitchen, well done. But, I was taught differently; and like that you explained your process for ppl. Again, well done! Cheers✌🏻
Nice colour backsplash! I would have avoided a project like this. But, considering you mentioned the cheaper options for tools (cutting the tile), that gives me hope...
About a minute into your video I wondered why you were wearing long pants instead of your usual shorts - even though you were indoors. All became clear when Ariat products entered the story! Looks like good stuff!
It would look nicer if the strip of stone backsplash was removed first. That way you would get a full wall of that nice tile work and not the, in essence, two-tone wall.
Quick tip. When using the "nibblers" to cut tile, wear safety glasses of course. Using a freezer bag, put the tile inside and chip away as needed. Saves time later trying to clean up all those sharp fragments that go flying all over the place.
Great tip!
Fantastic again! Just a couple of things I learned doing tile work
1) Round holes are a bitch. You were lucky. Typically a tile get cut in half and using the nibbler a hole is created from both sides. Plan on using 2 or 3 tiles at each hole - you will trash a couple.
2) Never use a light grout on floors. It picks up dirt and shows a traffic pattern
3) Grout comes in two types - sanded and unsanded. Sanded grout is for larger joints and has a rough texture. Unsanded is for tighter joints and has a harder more impervious surface. Read the instructions regarding joint size. Consider this when picking tile.
4) if your tile isn't glazed you need to be careful with grout. It may get in the texture and leave a "shadow" along the joints that is impossible to remove. Really true if you are using an epoxy grout which is the most stain resistant.
5) Grout can also be sealed. Floors should be sealed.
6) The end of the caulk tube can be shaped to a 90 angle so it fits in the joint. If you can stick a nail in the tube hole its too big.
We did this in our kitchen after we got tired of the paint. So many outlets/light switches - only got to do a few spots where I could do full sheets. To keep the tile from sliding down we put in finishing nails under the top row of tiles then pulled the nails the next day when we did the grout. Turned out perfect and was a great project for my wife and I.
This is a great find. Good, thorough tutorial. Simple explanations as well.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.
All electrical splices (ie the ones under the cabinets feeding the lights) must be enclosed in either the fixture or a metal or plastic electical box.
just an aside there are two types of grout, for the tiles you are using "sanded grout/ contains sand particles" is fine but when you use "glass type tiles" "Non sanded" is recommended, for the sanded type will scratch the surface of the glass type when floating. Nice job on the back splash.
Non sanded grout is recmmended for backsplash because it cleans up and lets less water through it to the wall. Bear in mind you need a relatively thin grout line to use unsanded grout. 1/2" is too big
1/4" is okay but under 1/8" is better.
If you use sanded grout make sure and thoroughly seal the grout. If your backsplash tile is a natural stone it too needs to be sealed.
I used to sell tile in a tile showroom.
One tip about cutting tile:
Not all types of tile cut well on a snap cutter like the one used in this video.
True, LOTS of tiles do just fine. However, there are just certain types that will NEVER snap off in a straight line. Such as some types of Mexican tile, some (not all) Italian tiles, and other handmade tiles. It has to do with the clay makeup, as well as how they are fired.
There's nothing wrong with those tiles, they just won't cooperate with a snap tile cutter.
So those types will need to be cut with a wet saw.
If you're planning on purchasing those types of tiles, and you're doing it yourself, ask the showroom sales person if your choice will cut with a snap tile cutter.
If you're not buying from a place that has a showroom,
and if you are renting a snap tile cutter, try a few, and see if they cut straight.
If your first 2 or 3 tiles don't snap off with a perfectly straight line, it's probably a good idea to give up on that tile cutter, before you ruin a whole bunch of tiles.
The alternative is to rent a Wet Saw.
Unless of coarse you've got a whole bunch to take your chances with!!
Renting yourself a wet saw for your project is easy, as well as using one. You'll probably enjoy that saw more than you expected!! And you'll have much less wasted, broken tiles when the job's all done. ♡
One last suggestion for anyone doing this. Buy a 60 grit or 80 grit diamond sanding sponge and use it to smooth/round all cut tile edges and it will make your cut pieces look great!
I am doing this project right now in my kitchen using mat-mounted subway tiles, but I have 27' x 18" of tile to install, and I am doing tile over tile, which requires special surface prep and use of mortar instead of Type 1 adhesive. Instead of a chalk line I opted to use a laser level to keep the pattern straight and level. Getting around outlets is a challenge, and I have been doing what you do - removing individual tiles from the mats to get clearance around the outlet, then cutting those to fit and installing them. I have the same tile cutter as you do, I believe. If you need to cut U-shaped pieces, however, you really need a tile saw and angle grinder. It's too easy to break the tiles with the nippers.
Perfect timing...you seem to release videos on similar projects I'm currently planning. I'm using ceramic wood tiles.. I've done floors but not yet walls and I know it's almost the same process, just on a vertical plane. I wasn't ready to decide on how or where to begin and proceed. This video just like the others, it helps me out a lot and is just the inspiration I needed for getting things rolling...and for that I thank, appreciate and admire your skill, knowledge, passion and cleverness.
I use baby wipes to smooth caulk and wipe my hands. They make caulk smooth and are cheap. Thanks April!
Great video. I did the same about 25 years ago. But as I have moved and partially redone our lighting in this house this job is very appropriate especially as I can add insulation to this 100 year old house where I know there is none. Just amazing how this house was build especially as I live in Northern Ontario, Canada! The new lights look and work great.
Get rid of the grout haze with a dry towel! You don't need to rinse it 15 times with a wet sponge. I'm always amazed how many people have this problem, especially in "how to tile" vids. believe it or not I learned this trick from the instructions ;P
Laser level is a game changer for tiling walls. Also, grouting can be pretty nerve wracking if you do by yourself. Also, make sure to plan out your edge treatment before starting.
A decent alternative to just smashing the grout all over the tile is to use a piping bag to go over the lines and then push those piped lines into the spaces. It takes more time to get the grout on, but it creates less waste and saves a bunch of time on cleanup
Beautiful. My question is what did u have to do with the outlets...did you have to bring them out more to compensate for the tile?
with small tiles the lines of the trowel don't matter really, air can escape, but when its bigger you want 'm all to be in the same direction so the air under it has the space to escape from those lines. Not too important for walls, but it is to floors where you don't want any air under, for air under will be cause for breaking tiles.
Great video, but how and what did you use to extend your outlets and should I go to the bottom of my counter or do I need to leave room for caulking? Thank you
Great video April. You did a beautiful job on your backsplash for your first attempt!
good job to be the first time, I like to use small spacers when starting and apply silicon because the grout tent to crack.
A tip I got from the Home RenoVision DIY channel - let the haze dry and then rub off with a completely dry sponge. It will rub off... never done it this way but an interesting idea.
Nice work April! Love my Ariat Boots but I've out grown them and cant find any in my size
As a first time home owner who has never done a project like this in her life, I really REALLY appreciate this video! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
You can use soapy water when applying caulk to make it easy and smooth
Beautiful look! It really makes the kitchen look complete. Very straight-forward and now I feel even I could attempt this job. I was always intimidated by the very thought of doing it myself. Thanks for instilling the confidence needed.
Great video. Can you please explain how you handled the light switch and outlets, to bring them out to be flush with the tile?
Te quedo excelente la encimera!! Te felicito April !! 👍👍👍👍
Thank you for the video, so helpful. Any chance you could post where you purchased the tiles you used and what they are called? I absolutely love the look, and we will be adding a kitchen backslash in a couple of weeks. Thanks so much!
This was super helpful to watch as we are remodeling our kitchen. My wife mentioned to me she wants a tile backsplash.
I have the same color cabinets and granite- This was so helpful! I am considering backsplash tile and feel much more confident in doing the project myself~ Thanks!
Awesome! Thanks for Sharing and for watching.
great job... something that I used when doing vertical tile is placing a nail or screw to keep from slippage.
This backsplash is a great idea for your kitchen. It added a nice color pop. Your explanations and visual how to made this an enjoyable and highly educational video. Thanks for posting it.
Stay safe.
You explained the layout perfectly. Every layout is different based on what you’re need is. Thanks for sharing!
I've done alot of tiling over the years from showers to walls to backsplashes. Just curious as to why you didn't continue the tile around that corner to end at the edge of the cabinets and fridge? It just looks unfinished to me but that is strictly my opinion. Once you know the steps, tiling is very easy to do for the homeowner.
What backsplash is this I have the same color cabinets and countertops
I really enjoyed this! It was informative without any fluff and easy to understand.
Great vid. There is one thing I would suggest to try differently. When you use a float to squeegee off the excess grout keep rinsing off the float and have a little water on it while squeegeeing. This will save you much time for cleaning up the hazy residue at the end.
Thank you VERY much for this tip!!!
Hi and i wnjoyed learning about how to do my own tile for my tiny home..it really helps. Im born and was raised in Tx too, now living in a different state Arizona, to be exact.
Your video, was inspirational, very clear and staright to the point.
i find it easier to clean the haze off the tiles by first using a dry scotch bright sponge thingy to remove most of the haziness, then go over with a wet sponge to take the rest off... that way you dont have to go over it many times with the wet sponge... it cleans it faster!
This will be my first "big" project for my 1st time house, great vid!
Awesome! Enjoy the project, learn from any mistakes and never give up. Thanks for watching.
This was a great video. Thank you. I will be doing this in the next few months.
April, It looks awesome! I used almost the exact tile in my kitchen!
The edges of the window are done in a way I've never seen before. Could you post something about how they were done? Very nice look, thanks for posting the video.
I just did my first tiling project too!! It‘s so satisfying 🥰 You did a wonderful job!
My only suggestion would be to have a small piece of Schluter to end your backslash! Gives it a nice and clean finished end
where did you get all that tile for $100 ? the big home depot and Loews wants $10 + for one section.
Awesome job April, the backsplash looks great! 😍👌🏻 Thanks for sharing the process! 👍🏻👊🏻
This video gives me the courage to tackle my kitchen, Thank you !!!!!
The new safety shoes are beautiful! Nice work as always. Stefano, Bologna Italy
I agree about doing the layout to fit your space instead of always making things layout even ... however you should always look at how things end in the not important side/window/anyplace else you have to cut, because you don't want to have impossible cuts when you come to those areas.
Hey April, I'm glad you are doing well and busy as ever. I was there when you did a video about starting your channel, you have come a long way and done good. Your DIY videos are a money saver, why not. Remember the Chain Saw carved Rooster, Chicken you made, I do. All the Best in '21, C.
You can always use “grout caulk” instead of floating the grout. May not be conventional, but actually is far better on a backsplash. Easily installed, no mess in your existing kitchen, grout as you have time, easy cleanup, you get the same look, water proof too, plus, no sealing required....
dry mix the grout before adding water to insure color consistency of grout
The backsplash looks fantastic! I rent my apartment so sadly won't be doing this but we will see what my potential future home may look like if I need to come back years from now to re-watch it and use your advice. 😂
Tilers Tip. Use a little dish washing liquid in your rinse water to prevent the hazing (streaks) on the tile. You're welcome :)
April, beautiful job. Where did you find that tile? We love it.
The back splash is a nice finish to the kitchen.
I *never* use a level when doing projects like this... even if something is perfectly level & straight, if the countertop/window/ceiling/cabinets/whatever around it are not, it's going to look bad. Saw a documentary one time that went over the Parthenon - it has no straight lines in the entire building, but rather was built with all subtle curves to compensate for the curvature of the human eye to *look* straight. I took that to heart in everything I do & make things look right.
BTW, first relevant comment. =)
This and the under cabinet light is such a game changer. Will definitely be doing this very soon in my kitchen. Thank you
Great job! I have that same color granite. I just purchased a similar backsplash
Great to have in the kitchen. Nice backsplash April. It looks very warm.
Hello April, Love your tile job, really makes big difference.where would someone get tile tile.
Please come to my house in Texas and do this lol. Good watch and techniques. Will need to do this soon enough.
It made a beautiful difference!!!
Great intro to backsplashing. Turned out real nice. About to try a small backsplash behind a dry sink. Ty for the tutorial! 👍
april i love your works
You have a huge but beautiful kitchen. Very nice job on the backsplash. 👍👍👍. ✌️😎
Buen trabajo con las baldosas quedo muy bonito. Un saludo.
One thing not shown / mentioned is how you put the plugs back up. Did you pre-drill the holes so that the tile doesn’t crack?
OMG watching this I'm ready to demolish and renovate my kitchen ha ha ha. Thanks so much! Glad I found your channel. =)
I have always been scared to try laying tile. However, this does not look too bad. This video is great encouragement with helpful information! Thanks April!!!
The “start in the middle” rule, I only use it when doing flooring.
Loveeeeee this tutorial. Best I’ve seen for simple DIY thank you.
Looks nice, but don’t think I woulda used mastic for this, as a kitchen “can” become wet; and that’s where mastic doesn’t work so well. But, every job diff and works for you, that cool👍🏻
Do like the color and look of kitchen, well done.
But, I was taught differently; and like that you explained your process for ppl. Again, well done!
Cheers✌🏻
Nice colour backsplash! I would have avoided a project like this. But, considering you mentioned the cheaper options for tools (cutting the tile), that gives me hope...
Just did my kitchen several months ago. Subway tile. It’s was fun and a pain at the same time. Looks great though
Did I miss something? where do I purchase the tile sheets? Thanks for this awesome video!
You can find those sheets of tiles at any big box store. Thanks for watching.
Hey April! I have the same color cabinets. Can you please tell me the name of the backsplash you used?
My favorite part is the grenade sitting on the window seal after the project is done
About a minute into your video I wondered why you were wearing long pants instead of your usual shorts - even though you were indoors. All became clear when Ariat products entered the story! Looks like good stuff!
It would look nicer if the strip of stone backsplash was removed first. That way you would get a full wall of that nice tile work and not the, in essence, two-tone wall.
Do you know the name of the tile you used? Or where you purchased it? Thanks
Many excellent pointers, seriously good video, thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Can you tell me what the name and color o your tile is? Looks great.
What brand tiles are these
Great job April 👌 👍
3" adhesive spreader will change your life doing backsplashes.
Very nice! Thank you for the great video.
What an awesome project! I hope I get to try this on my future home!
Great looking backsplash, April. Awesome job.
You didn't show how you offset the electrical boxes to accomodate for the thickness of the tile. Could you give an update of the process?
Turned out really nice A.P. !!
Great video and awesome job!! Looks amazing thanks for the inspiration
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
How did you cut around outlets and make corner cuts with a score and snap bar cutter?
Needed to back butter always! no air gaps on the tiles
Fantastic work, April! Professional level work! 😃
Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊
How did you prepare wall? Did you remove the paint?
You're gonna need more that that Ariat shirt this coming weekend. It's supposed to get C O L D!!
What about sealing the grout.Happy trails
Congratulations on your new TV show