Setting a Subway Tile Backsplash

Turn off the power to the backsplash and remove the outlet covers. Set them aside and clean off the counters, in front of the backsplash, of all materials and appliances.

Lay out the subway tiles on the countertop in front of the backsplash to determine the best pattern and layout for the tiles. Practice setting the tiles in their pattern, whether a running bond, stacked or herringbone to get comfortable with how they should look.

Mark the tiles to be cut around the edges and around outlets with a grease pencil. Cut the tiles to fit on a tile wet saw and double check their fit with the other tiles before installing.

Spread a small amount of thinset mortar onto the backsplash. Work from the bottom up, setting the tiles into the thinset at a slight angle and twisting them gently into place. After several tiles are up, place a flat board over them and hit it lightly with a rubber mallet to set the tiles firmly into the mortar.

Wait 24 to 48 hours, after the tiles have been set up on the wall, for the mortar to dry. Grout the the tiles by dragging a rubber grout float over them at a 45-degree angle to push the grout between the joints. Turn the float to 90 degrees and scrape any excess grout off the tiles. Wait 10 minutes, then wash the excess grout haze off the tiles with a damp sponge.

Fill in the edges of the installation in the corners and where the subway tiles meet the countertop with caulk. Squeeze a thin bead into these areas, then smooth it into place with your index finger.