How to install

a splashback

Learn how to grout mosaic tile – it’s simpler than you think! Save money and have fun by doing it yourself. Our step-by-step guide will demonstrate how to install a glass tile splashback. Give your kitchen a dazzling elegance that you can feel proud of.

• Choosing the right splashback
  
• How to install a kitchen splashback
  
• How to grout a splashback
  
• How to install mosaic tile sheets
  
• How to fix a splashback

Choosing the right splashback

Choosing the pattern that’s right for your kitchen is a matter of personal taste. When it comes to the tile itself, there are a few different types of tiling styles to choose from. There are self-adhesive peel and stick tiles, loose tiles, or the more popular tile rolls with mesh backing sheets. The tile rolls can be particularly convenient when you’re installing mosaic splashback.  

How to install a kitchen splashback

The following instructions will help you achieve precise installation of your glass tile splashback:

1. Clear and clean the area. Remove everything from the countertops. Unscrew and remove outlet covers if possible. Clean the wall thoroughly. Use sandpaper to roughen up the surface, and to even out parts of the wall that are uneven.
2. Lay out the tiles. Use a spirit level to align the tiles and mark the border lines. Make sure the lines are level with the worktop and evenly spaced. Leave space for your grout!
   
3. Apply mortar. Make up the mortar as instructed by the manufacturer. Using a notched trowel, apply the mortar to the back of the tiles and push them in place. Use tile spacers to keep an adequate distance between tiles.
   
4. Clean up. Wipe away excess mortar with a damp cloth. Mortar usually dries completely within four hours, so it’s important to apply the mixture and tiles before this time has elapsed.  

How to grout a splashback

Grouting between tiles gives the splashback a finished look, holds the tiles in place, and makes the surface easy to clean. Here’s how to grout tile a splashback perfectly.

1. Gather your materials. You will need the following tools at your fingertips:
   a. Grout mixture (mixed according to package instructions)
   b. Putty knife
   c. Grout sealer
   d. Grout float
   e. Sealant
   f. Extra items recommended are plastic sheets, gloves, masking tape, a sponge, and soft cloths with warm water.
   
   Use the plastic sheet to protect the kitchen work surface, put on your gloves and you’re ready to grout!
2. Spread grout. Apply the grout mixture evenly into the spaces between the tiles using the grout float. Let the tile set for ten minutes, then tidy up the excess grout with a slightly wet sponge. 
3. Seal grout. After 24 hours, seal the grout and apply the sealant to the outside edges, ensuring that it is applied smoothly and neatly where it meets the kitchen work surface. Use your putty knife for touch ups. For your bathroom and kitchen sealing work, we recommend UniBond Anti-Mould for an enduring, adaptable seal.

How to install mosaic tile sheets

Mosaic tiles sheets are a quick and convenient way to install a flawless splashback. The mesh sheets hold the tiles in place, making it easy to arrange many tiles on the wall at once. Before purchasing your tools, check the packaging to make sure the mortar and tiles are compatible. Here’s how to install a mosaic splashback.

1. Get ready to tile. Position the tiles on the wall. Using a pencil and level, mark your parameters. Cover the worktop and any other nearby surfaces with plastic sheeting.
   
2. Apply mortar. Using a notched trowel, apply a layer of mortar to the sheet.
   
3. Position the tiles. Carefully press the mosaic sheet firmly into place. Cut away the extra mesh on the sheets using a utility knife. If you need to cut through tiles, you can rent a tile cutter from most local DIY stores.
   
4. Dry and grout. Allow 24 hours for the mortar to dry. After the tiles have set, apply the tile grout according to the above instructions. Tidy up smudges and messes easily with a cloth and water.

How to fix a splashback

If your cooking has got out of control and you’ve damaged your splashback, no worries! Repairing a splashback is quick and easy. We recommend using UniBond No More Nails Waterproof for a simple repair. It’s suitable for most surfaces, and can fill any gaps in your splashback.

1. Remove broken tile. Remove all broken pieces. Clean and remove any leftover mortar or grout from the area. This allows the new adhesive to adhere properly.
   
2. Apply the adhesive. Apply the adhesive to the back of each tile space in 1 cm drops. Do not flatten the beads by pressing too hard.
   
3. Place tiles. One by one, carefully place the tiles on the drops of adhesive and press gently.
   
4. Re-seal gaps. Once the adhesive has dried and cured, you can re-grout the gaps between the new and old.