Steps to Replacing Your Kitchen Backsplash

A mosaic tile backsplash can add a touch of class to your home, and can protect your walls from damage. When it is time to replace an old backsplash, it may not be as much work as you think. Whether your current backsplash is wearing down from time and use or you just want a new look in your kitchen, replacing the old one can be a do-it-yourself project.

Remove the old backsplash. Using a hammer and a flat bar, you can pry the tiles from the wall, one at a time.
Scrape the wall. Using a wide-blade scraper, remove the old, dried mortar from the wall.
Mix the mortar. Purchase a thin-set mortar mix from a home improvement store and follow the directions to mix up mortar.
Fill in imperfections. Using a trowel, use the mortar to fill in all of the holes, dips and scratches in the wall. Let it set for 30 minutes.
Smooth the surface. Trowel on a thin layer of the mortar and use a wet sponge to smooth the mortar, and ensure that the layer is even.
Lay out the tiles. Measure the width and height where the backsplash will be applied, and measure the tiles.
Cut the tiles. In order to fit the tiles to fit your backsplash area, you may need to cut them. A manual tile cutter or wet saw may be used.
Apply mortar. Using a trowel, apply a layer of thin-set mortar onto the wall.
Install the tiles. Put the tile sheet on the wall and press it into the mortar, and follow up with other tile sheets.
Wait. Give the mortar time to cure.
Apply grout. Fill in the areas between the tiles with grout.
Apply sealer. After the grout has had time to dry, apply a liquid silicone sealer in order to protect the tile and grout from becoming stained.

Once you have completed all of these fairly simple steps, you will have a beautiful new backsplash. The entire process does not have to be a lengthy one, and you can save some money by doing it on your own, rather than hiring it out.