How to Tile a Kitchen Splashback

As the head of product purchasing at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, one of the most common questions I get is, “How can I update my kitchen on a small budget?” My answer is simple: there’s no better way to transform your space than by upgrading your splashback. And if you’re looking for a project that’s affordable, impactful, and relatively easy to do yourself, the best option is tiled splashbacks.

In this guide, “How to Tile a Kitchen Splashback,” I will guide you through the process of creating a stunning splashback that will enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen without exceeding your budget. Forget about glass, mirrored, or stone splashbacks—while they’re beautiful, they often come with hefty price tags. On the other hand, splashback tiles provide an unparalleled blend of affordability, durability, and design versatility.

Tiling a kitchen splashback is not only one of the easiest DIY projects to tackle, but it also makes a massive impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Plus, I’ll share some of my top product recommendations from our range to help you get started without overspending. Let’s dive in!

Removing Existing Splashback

If you are renovating, which I assume you are, you must first remove your existing splashback. You can be lazy and tile over it, but believe me, you will be disappointed in the finish. It is well worth the effort to remove the existing splashback, reinstall the new plasterboard if required and start with a clear flat surface.

How to Tile Splashback Tiles on Plasterboard

1. The first step of tiling a kitchen splashback is to prep the surface. Make sure your plasterboard is free of any lumps or bumps that may interfere with your tiling. Add protective sheets over your benchtops to protect them from any tile adhesive and grout.
2. Make sure you have something to support the tiles—a benchtop is ideal. But if you’re tiling between two cupboards and want to continue a clean line of tiles, temporarily attach a block of wood in line with the benchtop to support the tiles that will sit between the cupboards.
3. Prepare your tile adhesive (mastic). I recommend Drymastic Tile Adhesive or Monoflex Tile Adhesive. If it’s a powder adhesive like these, you want to mix it until it’s of toothpaste consistency.
4. Next, select a starting point above a benchtop and use a 6 or 8mm notch trowel to carefully apply a line of mastic to cover the area on one row of tiles. Start at the bottom and push the trowel up to apply the mastic. If you are laying mosaic tiles, use a 6mm notch trowel. Otherwise, use an 8mm notch trowel.
5. Lay down the first row of tiles to form the foundation for the following rows. Use spaces to ensure the tiles are lined up and evenly spaced. Check they are level using a spirit level.
6. At the end of the row, you will likely need to cut your tiles for a perfect fit. To do this, place the tile upside down on the tile cutter and run the cutting blade along the tile, applying pressure to break it.
7. Lay the cut tile with the cut end butting into the corner or architraves.
8. Continue Steps 5 through 8 until you have completed laying each row of tiles, leaving the spacers in place for at least 12 hours.
9. After 12 hours, the mastic is set, and the spacers can be removed.

Grouting Splashback Tiles

With the tiles laid and the adhesive set, the tiles are now ready to be grouted. For grout, I recommend Kemgrout Coloured Grout. It’s available in many colours and is suitable for 3-6mm tile joints. Prepare your grout as per the manufacturer’s instructions, and then come back here to continue the process.

1. Using a rubber trowel, apply the grout to the tiles, massaging it into the joints in a 45-degree circular motion. Ensure all joints are full and remove any excess grout along the way.
2. Wait around 30 minutes for the grout to set, then use a clean sponge to clean and wipe away any excess grout.

Kitchen Splashback Tile Recommendations

There are literally thousands of suitable kitchen tile choices for splashbacks: some big, some small, some expensive, and some incredibly cheap; it really just depends on your budget.

If you’re searching for a cost-effective tile that delivers exceptional value, subway tiles are an excellent choice. Our range boasts a vast selection, with our 100x300mm subway starting at just $30.00 per square metre. We also have a great range of feature tiles at the affordable price of $65 per square metre, which includes the Heritage Aster Blue, Heritage Aster Green, Richmond Swan, Richmond Burnley, and Richmond Wellington tiles.

If you’re still undecided about your splashback tile, our article on Kitchen Splashback Trends should help.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an affordable way to refresh your kitchen, upgrading your splashback to a tiled one is a fantastic option. It’s budget-friendly, stylish, and surprisingly easy to do yourself when you follow the right steps. For those wondering how to tile a kitchen splashback, it’s as simple as preparing your surface, applying adhesive, and setting the tiles in place row by row. Once your splashback is tiled, grout the joints, let it set, and you’ll have a sleek, polished finish that elevates your kitchen instantly.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we pride ourselves on offering Perth’s most affordable and stylish splashback tiles. With prices starting at just $30 per square metre for subway tiles and feature tiles at $45, upgrading your kitchen has never been more accessible. Don’t forget to check out our clearance mosaic tiles, starting at just $10 each, for more incredible deals.

For all your kitchen splashback tile needs, visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre today and start planning your kitchen makeover!!