Before Installation of Your Backsplash

Being prepared for the installation of your backsplash will help ensure that the whole process is done smoothly and efficiently. Knowing what to expect will also make things less stressful on you, your family, and your home.

Hire a Pro.
Installing a backsplash is difficult work, labor intensive and extremely exacting. We strongly recommend you call upon a reliable, experienced professional to install your backsplash, insuring a beautiful, efficient and correct installation.

Even though we are recommending that you hire a professional, there are some aspects of the installation process that will be useful to you before, during, and after installation.

The Installation
The installer will measure the area, clearly define the exact pattern for the installation, and determine which pieces of tile will need to be cut to fit the area.

The installer will measure and mark the tiles that need cut and then use a wet saw with a diamond blade to cut through the stone tile. The freshly cut edges are smoothed by hand with a white stone.

Once the layout has been determined and the necessary tiles have been cut, the installer can begin setting the tile.

Thinset mortar, which is a cement-based adhesive, is applied to the surface with a notched or grooved trowel. The tile is then placed into the thinset and pressed firmly into place.

Grouting
After all the tiles are set and the thinset mortar has fully cured, the installer fills the joints between the tiles with grout.

The grout mixture is spread over the tiled area with a grout float to fill in all the joints.

A sponge is then used to remove excess grout from the surface of the tile, while leaving the grout in the joints to cure.

Water Proofing.
Don't gamble with water damage. When installing tile in any interior wet area, we strongly recommend that the walls of the area be waterproofed before you tile.

Before installation day
Clear Cabinets and Move Appliances.
We can move your appliances for you at an additional cost.

Moisture Control.
Be aware that the area of installation must be climate controlled (heated or air conditioned). Indoor humidity should be maintained between 45-65%.

Clean Up.
Installing a backsplash will produce waste. Usually, these materials are collected by your installer and left at your trash collection site. Please let us know before installation if you desire us to haul away the waste.

Installation Day
Be Home.
Please be at home the day of installation and be available to answer any questions that the installation crew may have. Your presence will ensure a number of details, including exactly where the backsplash starts and stops, what pattern the installer follows, and other details.

Keep Your Family Safe.
Your installers will have and use tools and techniques that can make the work area hazardous. Please make sure that your children and pets are kept out of the work area on installation day.

Do A Walk-Thru.
We recommend that you inspect the job with the chief installer prior to the completion of the installation. This "walk through" will allow you to ask questions and receive clarification on any final details.

After Installation
Ventilate.
If you are sensitive to dust and odors, good ventilation should be established for 48 to 72 hours after installation.

Follow Instructions.
Your installer will tell you if there are any additional special instructions that must be followed following installation. For example, the tile may need to be sponged daily for several days to prevent the grout from cracking, pulling moisture from the underlying mortar, or curing unevenly.