How to Tile a Backsplash
With Tom Meehan

Learn how to tile a quality custom backsplash like a professional tilesetter:
  • Six episodes cover all the steps of a tile installation
  • Learn how to lay out a custom design and use a wet saw to cut tile
  • Learn tricks for mixing and spreading thinset for a perfect tile bond
  • Learn tricks on how to tile around outlets and detailed molding profiles

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Backsplash Introduction: Tile a Custom Backsplash

(Playing on this page) Get an overview of a tile-backsplash project.

Cutting Tile Preparing and Cutting Tile

Learn how to prepare for a tile-backsplash project, protect appliances and lay out mosaics.
Spreading Thinset Spreading Thinset

Learn time-saving techniques for marking the wall,and mixing and spreading the bonding material to a perfect thickness.
Installing Field Tile Installing Field Tile

Learn how to avoiding slippage with heavy tiles, use spacers to create the best effect, and work around intricate cabinet profiles.
Installing a tile mosaic Installing a Tile Mosaic

Learn how to set a mosaic tile feature, set glass tiles correctly, keep tiles organized, and keep thinset fresh.
Applying Sealant and Grout Applying Sealant and Grout

Learn how to seal tile, how to protect appliances and countertops, and how the right grout application can make a good tile job look great.
Tips on Tiling Tips on Tiling

Tom Meehan demonstrates his favorite tips, from cutting around switch plates and other profiles to using nippers and snap cutters.

Tom Meehan

Harwich, Massachusetts

Tom MeehanTom Meehan got his start laying tile by helping his father on weekends and has been installing tile for more than 40 years. Tom and his wife, Lane, operate Cape Cod Tileworks in Harwich, Mass., have four sons, and practice karate in their spare time. The Meehans cowrote Working with Tile (The Taunton Press, 2005).

Tiling a backsplash is a great way to add a distinctive look to a new kitchen or bring new life to an existing kitchen. Also, adding a tile backsplash is a great starter project before you take on bigger tiling work. A backsplash is not complicated to install, and it’s an opportunity to personalize your kitchen. In this Build Like a Pro video series, we’ll discuss the basics of backsplash design, the different materials suited for backsplash tile, and easy ways to get the most from your budget. We’ll also get expert advice from master tilesetter Tom Meehan. You’ll learn how to prepare yourself and your job site for trouble-free installation. You’ll learn how to use a wet saw to cut tile and see safe methods for making tricky cuts. Finally, you’ll watch step by step an entire installation from planning the project to grouting and the final cleaning. You’ll also learn tips on how to incorporate a tile mosaic and custom accent tiles into your new tile backsplash.

 

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