How To Lay Tiles Over A Kitchen Splashback

MORE STUFFBRADS OTHER GUIDESHow to lay those TILES!!!How To Lay Tiles Over A Kitcen SplashbackMy experience laying tiles covers more than two decades.The proceedure described below has always given great results.PLAN YOUR JOB,Measure the total length of area to be tiled.Find centre of measured area and draw a plumb(vertical)line top to bottom.Measure the total height and draw a level(horizontal)line through the centre,edge to edge.Place the tile to be used against the vertical line,draw a line down the opposite edge of tile on the wall.Continue marking the position of each tile until you reach the end of the tiled area.At this stage you will know what size your cut will be.If you have a small cut,place your tile exactly half way over your centre line and remark tile position until you reach the end of the tiled area.Remember to allow for tile joint in your setout(2 to 3mm)Repeat the same process for the total height to avoid small cuts under the overhead cupboardsIf the cut is half a tile or bigger,no need to cut the first row oftiles over the bench.Use a 6mm notched trowel for smooth surface and apply to back of tile,covering at least 90%.Position your first tile,lightly pushing into place.Lay the first row,allowing for your jointIf minor adjustments need to be made,use cardboard ripped into small,flat pieces to support tiles until set.Make sure your first row is level before proceeding with the next."T" spacers and "+" spacers are available from tile outlets and are recommended to keep a uniform tile joint,both horizontal and vertical.After 8 to 24 hours (depending on the weather),tiles may be grouted.You will need 2 clean buckets,sponge,rubber glovesand squee-gee.Place about a cup of water in one bucket and add powder to water until "toothpaste" consistancy is achieved.Always add powder to water,not the other way round.Fill the other bucket with clean water,your ready to grout!Place a small amount of grout on the wall and work well into all joints.Only grout as much as you can comfortably wash off before grout sets.Allow grout to become firm(not dry), before attempting to wash it off.Concentrate on "shaping" the tile joint,rather than cleaning the surface of the tile.Any residue on the surface of the tile can be buffed off with a dry rag when completely dry(old towels are good).Stand back and admire your handy work!!!!! any questions at all contact me through "contact member " option and I would be happy to answer them.WILL ADD SOME PICTURES SOON!