How to Install Tumbled Travertine Backsplash Diagonally

Measure the length of the countertop and estimate how many diagonal pieces you need to start the installation. Place the tape measure across a piece of tile from corner to corner across the piece to determine the width of the bottom half of the piece when cut diagonally. Use that measurement to determine how many you need.

Cut an appropriate amount of tiles in half diagonally from one corner to another. Tumbled travertine tiles will vary in size, so you cannot use a gauge to help cut the tiles. Place the corner of a piece against the base of your tray, center it in the void for the blade, and match the other corner up so the blade bisects the opposite corner. Press the tray forward and cut the tile.

Nail a tack strip into place on the outside edge of your countertop in a vertical position to help hold the diagonal pieces in place. Cut one of your diagonal pieces in half, this time from the top of the triangle down the middle. Spread some mastic into the corner of the installation where the strip meets the countertop.

Install one piece of the half triangle in the bottom corner. Press the tile into the mastic firmly. Work your way down the countertop and install three or four diagonal halves. Between the diagonals, you will place a full piece of tile on a diagonal. Let the countertop act as a brace in tandem with the tack strip as you work your way up to the base of the cabinets. Use tile spacers and wedges to hold the tiles in place.

Work your way down the wall and cut your tiles around any electrical outlets and the underside of the upper cabinets. Mark the pieces with a tape measure, pencil and carpenters square to help streamline the process. Let everything set up for a minimum of 24 hours before you remove the spacers and grout the installation.