How to Make a River Rock Backsplash in the Kitchen

Preparation

• 1

  Measure the area you plan to tile with a tape measure. Calculate the surface area and order the appropriate amount of river rock tile for the project.

• 2

  Layout a pattern of river rock tile on a flat surface, such as a shallow box that can be moved to your work area, to determine a pleasing configuration. River rock tiles are inconsistently colored and shaped, so mapping out a backsplash makes the installation process much easier.

• 3

  Remove everything from the countertop and cover it with a protective cloth. Turn off all kitchen appliances and shut off power to the electrical outlets near your work area.

• 4

  Clean the wall with a damp rag to prepare the surface for tile.

Place the Tiles

• 5

  Mix a small amount of cement mortar. Make only the amount you can use in 30 minutes to prevent drying.

• 6

  Apply a 1/4-inch layer of cement mortar with a trowel to a small section of the wall, using the flat side of the trowel. Use the notched side to comb ridges into the mortar for better tile adhesion.

• 7

  Set one river rock tile at time with a slight twisting motion until it sticks in the mortar. Reapply mortar with the trowel as you progress along the wall.

• 8

  Allow the placed tiles several hours to dry and set up.

Grout the Joints

• 9

  Mix a small batch of grout from a grout package.

• 10

  Spread the grout over the tiles with a rubber grout float held at a 45-degree angle. Force the grout deep into the joints. Remove excess grout as you go by holding the grout float at a 90-degree angle and scraping it across the tiles.

• 11

  Allow the grout 15 minutes to partially set.

Finalize the Backsplash

• 12

  Rub a damp sponge along the tiles to clean off remaining grout and smooth the joints. Rinse the sponge and change the water often.

• 13

  Allow the grout several hours to dry and harden.

• 14

  Buff the tiles with a soft cloth and clean the surface with window cleaner. Apply a sealer over the entire backsplash as recommended by the tile manufacturer.