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How to install a simple subway tile kitchen backsplash

3,319,233 views October 26, 2013 10:07

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ChannelSal DiBlasi

In brief

You’ll install a clean, professional-looking subway tile backsplash in your kitchen using mastic adhesive—ideal for dry areas like backsplashes. The process is straightforward, with built-in spacers on most tiles simplifying alignment. Perfect for DIYers tackling a kitchen refresh without needing advanced tools.

Questions & answers

Can I use mastic for a shower backsplash?

No—the description says mastic is only for dry areas like kitchen backsplashes.

Do I need ledger boards or bracing for subway tiles?

Not usually with mastic, unless tiles are very heavy.

How do I know which trowel size to use?

The mastic bucket includes a guide for selecting the correct trowel.

Description from the creator

SUBSCRIBE Learn how tile the right way
How to install a simple subway tile kitchen backsplash. Depending on the tile that is to be installed, and where it will be installed, it is sometimes appropriate to use mastic as an adhesive for the tile. When installing tile in a wet area such as a shower stall, mastic is not to be used, instead use a thinset mortar adhesive in areas that will be exposed to water. When using mastic to install subway tiles, ledger boards or bracing of the tile to prevent them from sliding down, will more than likely not be required. Mastic usually will hold a tile in place, unless the tile is very heavy. Mastic is a premixed adhesive that is sold in a bucket and is not thinset, and is not to be used in wet areas. A kitchen backsplash such as the one in this video is an instant where mastic is suitable. Use the correct size trowel to spread your mastic, the mastic bucket will have a description and a guide to help in the selection of the trowel for you tile. Once you have started to install your tile, always check to confirm that the coverage of adhesive on the back of the tile is adequate. Subway tiles more often than not will have automatic spacers on them; this will make it possible to just place a tile on to the next tile without the use of any other spaces. This is not always the case so check your tile before starting the installation. Once the tile is installed allow the mastic to set the appropriate amount of time before grouting. All tile installed by Sal DiBlasi, Elite-tile Company, in the Boston North Shore area. This video contains affiliate links, which means I will receive a small commission if you click on the product link. #tile #transformthetrade #howtotile #installingtile #howtoinstalltile #laticrete #mapei #Schlutersystems #diy #construction #ardex
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About this tutorial

Sal DiBlasi published this 10:07 video tutorial on October 26, 2013. It has been watched 3,319,233 times on YouTube.

Duration
10:07
Published
October 26, 2013
Views
3,319,233
Likes
9,720

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