Do It Yourself Prepping a Wall for a Glass Tile Backsplash

A glass tile backsplash updates your kitchen with a colorful covering above your countertops. But it is essential to prepare the wall properly before installing glass tiles. You need a smooth surface so that the tiles are even. You also want to remove any blemishes or inconsistencies in the wall so they don't show through the glass tiles. Resist the temptation to take shortcuts or rush through the preparation phase; it sets the stage for the entire project and affects the look of the finished backsplash.

Spackling compound
Sandpaper
Paint
Rag

Instructions

- 1
  Remove any existing tile or backsplash material to prepare the surface. Patch any small holes or cracks in the wall using spackling compound. After it dries, sand it lightly to create a smooth surface.
- 2
  Shut off the electricity to the outlets in the backsplash area. Remove the face plates of the receptacles so you can prep the wall underneath.
- 3
  Sand the entire wall surface lightly to rough it up slightly if the wall color is currently light. If the wall is dark, cover the paint color with a primer and sealer so the dark color doesn't affect the color of the glass tiles. Allow the primer to dry for two or three days to harden slightly before sanding it gently to rough up the surface so the tile mortar holds to the wall better.
- 4
  Wipe the wall down with a clean rag to remove any dust from the sanding and wall preparation.
- 5
  Move appliances like the range or mounted microwave that are in the area that you are covering with the glass tile.
- 6
  Measure the backsplash area vertically and horizontally to determine the central point, where the vertical and horizontal lines intersect. This enables you to place the tiles out from that point for an even layout. Account for a 1/8-inch gap along the bottom edge to allow for expansion and the bottom grout line.

Laying a Glass Backsplash

How to Install a Backsplash by an Outlet

Kitchens