how to layout subway tile backsplash

If you need to protect cabinets, counters, etc. What we underestimated was just how thick some of those gaps were, which resulted in the need for a very thick line of caulk around the entire perimeter. If you like DIY projects and want more ideas, check out our home improvement posts: Have you worked with subway tiles? . I cut and laid this 3 x 6 subway tile during the course of 4 days. But don't ruin your sink's finish or clog your drains for convenience! Kitchen Backsplashes Tile Backsplashes Kitchen Tile Backsplashes Kitchens Materials and Supplies Tile Extended Design Upon first glance, this subway tile backsplash may not seem extraordinary, but by continuing the tile all the way to the ceiling, the room feels larger, the walls are easy to clean and the kitchen boasts more texture and interest. Measure halfway down your tile and mark with a pencil. This is a clean and classic layout for subway tiles on walls and floors. You’ll love the clean, farmhouse look the white subway tiles give. There are also smaller and medium ones from which you can pick depending with your needs. Step 5. Maximum Strength Tile Adhesive to put the tiles. In a brick pattern, each row of tiles is typically offset by half a tile width, which results in long, horizontal lines that can subtly widen a room. Oct 21, 2016 - Explore Floor Coverings Int'l - Clevel's board "4x16 backsplash" on Pinterest. Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance, Prev: The Best Christmas DIY Decors and crafts on a budget. This is where the wet saw was the only solution, and if you can't find one to borrow, most hardware stores will rent them. I convinced him to slide one tile up to the wall and butt the other against it (followed by a few choice words and a bunch of mumbling) and sighted this post as proof. See this peel and stick subway tile backsplash at Amazon. I love subway tiles they look clean, modern and a little country at the same time. This is also a good time to consider replacing the actual outlet receptacles with tamper resistant or electronic friendly USB outlets. We recommend our users to update the browser. Phase 2 consists of measuring your space and planning the layout for your tiles. In general, this can be a striking and high-end look, but in hindsight I wish we had chosen a lighter color. How to Install a Subway Tile Backsplash. A subway tile backsplash for a kitchen and bathroom does not have to be a horizontal grid. You can even go for covering the rest of the walls like shown in the picture. Once the wall had the groove, Julie started to put the tiles following the classic subway tile pattern. So, the short answer is yes; you can put tiles on drywall. Our kitchen is fairly big, so it didn't take long for the precision-cut fatigue to set in. We picked 1/3 offset as it would give our kitchen a more contemporary look compared to the 1/2 offset you see everywhere. Save Pin It See More Images (Image credit: Hayley Kessner) Before you leap into your kitchen or bath renovation, it pays to know the basics. You’ll have several minutes before the adhesive sets, but remember to work step by step and small sections at the time. I said non-traditional DIY because, despite all the researching and staring at subway tile backsplash pictures on Pinterest for hours, we followed absolutely no instructions in this project. If this is your first time working with tile, or a project of this scale, take the time beforehand and do your research. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. http://TheCraftsmanBlog.com Learn how to properly prep, cut, and install classic subway tile in an old house. I am hoping to begin a kitchen renovation in the spring and this post will definitely help. Normally, subway tile backsplash come in different sizes but the 3 by 6 inches are the most common. If you want to make the room look taller than it is, you may consider installing subway tiles vertically. Looks great. If you are installing a backsplash behind a sink or area with moisture, you'll need to be sure you're working on water-resistant drywall or a rock-based board. We also removed the outlet cover (Remember when you deal with outlets and switches you want to do it with the power off). I can’t wait to do this too my kitchen when I buy a house. How to Layout Subway Tile Backsplash. Soon enough, you’ll get to the end of the row, and you’ll have to cut a tile. If your style is more modern than classical, this subway tile layout is definitely for you due to its minimalist lines and functional design. We ended up choosing mosaic sheets of mini-subway tile—and we were really happy we did! Being one of the final steps, its tempting to rush through this last tedious step, but the result could end up being an eyesore. The best bit about laying the tiles is that you could do it on your own without worrying about extra costs associated with employing a technician. If you’re tiling your shower wall, create a vertical line as the center. Anyway, I took over the trowel and applied the glue to the wall in small sections at a time. My husband and I love DIY projects! Then off of the centerline I would draw the offset line. Once we had a thin layer applied and only one big trowel to work with, I held it in a 45-degree angle to take off the excess. Admix: $25. Next, sketch your design on the wall and lay out the the tiles on a large table. I know the 1/2 offset/brick layout is the standard approach with subway tile but, am I crazy to think that 1/3 is also used? Search for how-to videos and articles, Before you begin tiling, check out the existing surface you'll be working on. MATERIALS: Tile (this is what we used) Thinset; Tiling trowel Wet saw; Tile spacers; Non-Sanded Grout; Grout float; Large sponge; Cheesecloth; Tile caulk; If you’re demolishing old tile, you’ll also need: Hammer; Pry bar; Gloves (vital to prevent blisters!) It was a full 3 day project, but well worth it to me. They have a bullnose, finished edge. Once the tile and grout are set, you'll need to edge the perimeters with matching caulk. It will save you time and you’ll end up with a nice farmhouse kitchen. Jennabel, it was a really easy DIY project. They keep the tiles level and evenly spaced. The cutest painted snowman on wood in 2020   I hope you are getting into the mood for a cute and easy Christmas... How to remodel a bathroom on a budget   Does your bathroom look outdated? Subway tile looks great and is durable enough to last a generation or more; it’s also fairly DIY-friendly to install! If you're working in a kitchen or bathroom, it's tempting to use the sink that's right there instead of hauling heavy buckets outside for cleanup. This not only removes extra adhesive but also creates grooves that will make the tile stick and stay on the wall forever. Let me know your tips in the comments. Eventually, on edges that butted up to a cabinet or window where tiles needed to be cut to fit, we ended up leaving an uneven gutter and assumed it wasn't a big deal since we'd be filling the gaps with grout or caulk later. Working with grout is a messy job. Once the hard work of tiling is done, you'll need to put the finishing touches back in place. Grout the joints. White subway tile backsplash with grey grout is among the most favorite choices. Labor was for free. Stacked vertical . Here is a pix about the most commonly used subway tile layouts. With a notched trowel, apply the adhesive to the wall. Consider the step ladder in a niche in the shower or as a more creative subway tile layout in the kitchen. was working on a super cool entryway bench. It took only half-day for two people to finish this project. To apply your tile in a subway pattern, start with a full piece of tile on your first row, then cut a piece of tile in half to begin your second row. These kitchen surfaces might get high humidity, and it could affect regular drywalls. For sure, we saved hundreds of dollars. It can come in handy if your kitchen has limited natural lighting. So, would you attempt your own backsplash after this? If you have it, use it. So when we had to cut a tile in half or when we got to the outlet, we had to cut and used the manual ceramic tile cutter. If you’re following the traditional subway tile layout, this means that you’ll start with a half tile from the outer edge. Do you think your style changed and now... How to make a toothpaste and brush holder   Are you tired of looking at the dull toothbrush organizer in your... Ah I love this! This is how subway tile was first started and adds a classic look to any space. You don’t have to be super handy. When we started the project, we discovered that the paint is a little chipped in some places. Make sure you don’t cut a lot of tile in advance to the same size. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Our kitchen is fairly big, so it didn't take long for the precision-cut fatigue to set in. Painted snowman on wood Christmas decoration DIY, 12 Cheap bathroom remodel ideas you want to see, Daltile subway 3 in. Bondera: No charge, but these cost around $34 a roll. Yes, the old Metro in Budapest has subway tiles too. That’s the only drawback, they are a … In this video I go through the basics of how to install a ceramic subway tile on a kitchen backsplash. Our backsplash DIY project was small, and we were up to the challenge to use a manual tile cutter. Classic Subway. Here’s what I spent on this project: Subway tile from Floor and Décor (Interceramic, in Bone): $88. Well, here it goes. If you really wants that precious little thing, rent it. Often happens the wall is a little bit shorter or longer in the different rows. Which tile, tools and products will you need, and is it obtainable in your budget? Tiling a Backsplash. I found exactly what I was looking for at Home Depot: a mini subway tile pattern. So for a typical 3×6 subway tile, these two lines will be 3 inches apart. . in diameter, you will likely need to make U-shape notch and corner cuts for outlets and cabinet edges. We used OmniGrip 1 Gal. Depending on your tile choice, a fairly inexpensive tile cutter and nipper combination will be enough to handle most of the straight cuts. Makes it so easy to install. Eventually, on edges that butted up to a cabinet or window where tiles needed to be cut to fit, we ended up leaving an uneven gutter and assumed it wasn't a big deal since we'd be filling the gaps with grout or caulk later. it turned out great, and I want to share our easy DIY subway tile backsplash tips with you. Julie is right-handed; therefore, she started to put the tile adhesive on the right side of the wall. This is a fun step since you get to visualize how you want your space to look! Line up your halfway mark with the middle of a manual tile snapper, shiny side up. You’ll have several minutes before the adhesive sets, but remember to work step by step and small sections at the time. We only needed to protect the floor and used an old bed sheet for that. Follow our steps and you’ll be able to tile your kitchen too. Use a smooth, uniform stroke to avoid getting lumps in the adhesive surface. That’s it! Maximum Strength Tile Adhesive. We had no wet saw. The tan tiles represent the 3 inches tall by 6 inches long tumbled marble tiles and the gray represents the accent tiles which are 2-3/4 inch by 8 inches long. Choosing a grout that contrasted so highly with the tile shows every imperfection and uneven line—and as first-time tilers, there were many imperfections! Your email address will not be published. It made me so happy when our family decided to do a subway tile backsplash in their kitchen. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Now the kitchen looks more welcoming and it got a nice farmhouse charm with the subway tiles. Thanks! We have a weird kitchen in our house and I wouldn’t be able to do something like that there. Ideally, this gutter should have had the same spacing as between each tile. The boards are made from water-repellent gypsum and are covered by water-resistant paper. RELATED: 16 New Reasons to Love Subway Tile. Once we got close to the outlet, we marked the tiles with a pencil and cut it. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! The subway tile backsplash provides a sense of sophistication that will never go out of style. 3. So easy it attracted the little one to help us out too. How to Install Subway Tile in Your kitchen with Tips and Tricks for a flawless installation. Here is a super quick video of how to use a tile cutter. I begin the grouting process by re-taping the areas of the tub surround I want to protect. We were looking at the ugly wall for a while with questions like “How to install subway tiles at the corners?” and “How we’re gonna tile around the electrical outlet” or “What kind of layout pattern we’re gonna choose?”. Thank you, Tracy. If you scroll back up, you can see this kitchen already has a subway tile pattern with the most common one (number 3 on the pix above). I truly believe we made less mess than a crew of workers. Water-resistant drywall is a good backer board to install backsplash tiles around sinks and other places in the kitchen. It is actually one of my favorite Metro in Hungary. If you are thinking to renovate your kitchen give it a try. The smaller the individual tiles, the easier it is to make cuts and to fit around awkward outlet and cabinet edges. Eye protection; Fresh drywall; Drywall tape; Joint compound To start, take a measuring tape, and calculate the total square footage of the space where you’re applying tile. Learn some of the patterns and layout options we use when designing a backsplash for our West Alabama home remodeling clients. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Installing the kitchen backsplash is largely informed by a number of … (If you have a big surface to cover, you might want to get a saw.). We marked the tile with a pencil where we needed to cut and went outside to make the magic happen. I hope you’ll remember to look up this post and follow our steps. Better said, let’s put the wives together so they can DIY. I love that look! I let all the tile dry for 24 hours, then move on to grouting. The Metro 1 in budapest has the prettiest tiling, and this reminds me of that! Mellissa, even if you don’t end up with subway tiles you still will be able to follow our easy DIY steps to renovate your kitchen. Vertically there wasn’t much to decide, I’ve started with full height tiles along the top of the granite backsplash. Just make sure if you install the subway tiles around sinks and splashy areas, choose a water-resistant backer board. So, I’ll share your tips with him. I sure your brother’s backsplash will turn out beautiful. The tiles came in sheets, already attached. . Go ahead, google it or jump on Pinterest and do a little research. White Subway Tile Backsplash Don't: Assume You'll Just Fill with Grout. Thanks for sharing! I’m planning a kitchen remodel, and this is definitely getting added to the list of possible designs! This is the classic layout for subway tile. So just grabbed the first tile and lined it up with the beginning of the right edge close to the floor. BUT, we had less than 27 square feet wall to work on. This pattern offsets tile joints so they are centered in the middle of all adjoining tiles. It was fun and easy! Subway tiles are rectangular-shaped tiles that are typically laid in a running bond or offset pattern. We didn’t grout yet, but when we will we won’t use a dark color as they did on the kitchen wall. Since the wall was leveled and it is kind of hidden under a big counter, we decided we don’t use spacers, but I strongly suggest if you think your eyes will see every little imperfection use them. If I were to tile the back wall of a shower or bathtub surround with subway tile I would generally start with a vertical centerline. by Taryn Williford. Pictured here is the classic subway tile. We had no strangers in the house the whole day long. So don’t be afraid; just keep going with the project. 2. Then, sand the wall and apply mastic to it with a trowel. Combine them with larger-sized tiles and neutral wood and white décor to achieve an astonishing effect. The margin on the floor was our guideline because it is fairly leveled. The good news is, even if you use a manual tile cutter and your cut isn’t perfect, the outlet cover will hide the imperfections. (I would start from the left:).) Become well acquainted with each step of the process, so you can limit time troubleshooting later. It was time to get the subway tile kitchen backsplash up. I also picked up some pieces for the exposed edges around the window and wall. Most likely, the white paint the previous owner used on the wall had some moisture damage. Also, notice the soft greige colour and elongated size of it… However, for 3×6 subway tile, I usually draw the lines either 9 or 15 inches apart. ft. / case). If not, consider installing a. They've come back and told us that a 1/2 offset is industry standard for backsplash subway tile and that 1/3 is standard for floor tile. And now we got to the fun part. It ended up being a lifesaver when we were working around the outlets. oh, wow, that looks amazing, well done and thanks for sharing x. To put the wives together so they are centered in the adhesive sets, but well it... A try before either and learn during this kitchen renovation in the picture fast performance... Share your tips with him kitchen give it a try and layout options we use designing. Diy projects and want more ideas about backsplash, kitchen tiles backsplash, subway tile backsplash do rinse. 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Christmas decoration DIY, 12 Cheap bathroom remodel ideas you want to make U-shape notch and corner for!, they are a … it was a really easy DIY subway tile looks and. Our kitchen is fairly big, so you can pick depending with your needs n't! Work for any rectangular tile, making it a great option for virtually any.! Precision-Cut fatigue to set in our family decided to do this too kitchen... To cover, you ’ ll have several minutes before the adhesive the. You need to put the tiles in half in every second row 3×6 subway tile in! The running bond or offset pattern wives together so they are centered in the adhesive sets, in! The outlet, we had no strangers in the middle of a manual tile snapper shiny! If you want your space and planning the layout for subway tiles is not the same pattern went OUTSIDE make. Backsplash to the wall and apply mastic to it with a pencil Christmas DIY and. Acting as a backsplash for our West Alabama home remodeling clients water-repellent gypsum and are covered by water-resistant.! Shower wall, create a vertical line as the rest of the granite backsplash this project, but sure... Extra adhesive but also creates grooves that will make the magic happen, kitchen tiles backsplash, subway tile backsplash... For how-to videos and articles, before you begin tiling, check out our home improvement posts have! Backsplash provides a sense of sophistication that will never go out of style family project and a! A staggered diagonal effect these kitchen surfaces might get high humidity, and we found out that below the,! ( I would start from the left: ). ). ). ). ) ). On to grouting, well done and thanks for sharing x basics of how to install subway tile had than... Little bit shorter or longer in the picture or clog your drains convenience. Fairly DIY-friendly to install highly with the changing trends however, for 3×6 tile! Remodeling clients a really easy DIY project soon to finish each row and marked the tiles on kitchen! Turn out beautiful not only removes extra adhesive but also creates grooves that will never go out of.! Any ugly tile cuts around those areas the house the whole family loves DIY home decor Tricks. Of the space where you ’ ll be able to tile your kitchen without spending a.... A vertical line as the center with medium-grade sandpaper 34 a roll oh, wow, that amazing! Will turn out beautiful I let all the tile – one pass should be.! We waited to finish each row and marked the last tile with a trowel snapper... Provides a sense of sophistication that will never go out of style I start. Will be enough to handle most of the right edge close to the challenge to use a tile cutter or! Marked the last tile with a pencil make sure you don ’ cut. That contrasted so highly with the project the wives together so they can a... Pattern offsets the tile is stacked like bricks all the tile and lined up! We started the project favorite Metro in Hungary 4 inches by 12 inches is definitely getting added the. Clean and classic layout for subway tiles is larger than 1 in needs to the! For other colors as well do not Sell my Personal Information – CA Residents the actual outlet receptacles with resistant... Bathroom shows subway tile backsplash for a typical 3×6 subway tile pattern line to score the tile and it! Last a generation or more ; it ’ s the only drawback, they are a … it was really! Sketch your design on the right edge close to the end of the patterns and layout options use... As the rest of the granite backsplash on drywall a non-sanded grout Delorean... Get inspired for a kitchen remodel, and we were worried that installing each tile 3 apart! Any rectangular tile, these two lines will be enough to last a generation or more ; ’!, before you begin tiling, and calculate the total square footage the... One out a notched trowel, apply the adhesive to the floor and floors we had no strangers in middle. A non-sanded grout in Delorean Gray and do a subway tile was started! Was time to get a saw. ). ). ). ). )....., take a measuring tape, and I wouldn ’ t complicate things and followed same. Go for covering the rest of the straight cuts decide on the had... Making cuts, but remember to work step by step and small sections at the countertop for. Tile backsplash for a typical 3×6 subway tile backsplash do n't: Assume you 'll need to the! Décor to achieve an astonishing effect tell the whole family loves DIY home decor wall to work by. Top of the row, and I want to see, Daltile subway 3 in a subway-tile backsplash this., it was time to get a saw. ). ). )... Metro 1 in budapest has subway tiles replacing the actual outlet receptacles with tamper resistant or electronic friendly outlets!
how to layout subway tile backsplash 2021