Updating Your Kitchen On A Budget? Learn How To Install A Simple Backsplash

A kitchen renovation project can be quite involving and expensive, especially if you plan to replace your appliances, cabinets, and counters. While a complete remodeling project will make your home's kitchen look brand new, not every homeowner can afford it. If you want to update the look of your kitchen while on a budget, adding a backsplash is easy to do. Here is how to give your kitchen a fresh look that is affordable.

Measure The Backsplash Area

You will need to determine the amount of tiles you'll need to complete the project, which will require measuring the backsplash in terms of square footage. Simply multiply the length by the height of your backsplash to determine the square footage. For example, a backsplash that is 10 feet wide by 2 feet high has a square footage of 20 square feet.

Select The Tiles

An affordable way to create a new backsplash on a budget is with ceiling tiles. They are typically sold in 1'x1' squares with a sticky backing on them, which makes them easy to apply to any surface. Since each tile is one square foot, it is easy to do the math and determine how many you need for your backsplash.

For best results, select a tile that is single color without a crazy pattern in it. Keep it simple to prevent your backsplash from looking too busy.

Attach The Tiles

The way ceiling tiles attach is what makes them great for a budget DIY upgrade. You don't need to use grout or glue to keep the tiles in place. Just peel off the paper on the back, and place the glue side on the wall.

The first tile that you place is going to be crucial in terms of your backsplash being level, so take extra care in the placement of it. It is best to start in a lower corner to ensure that the visible part of the tile has a clean edge. Once you are sure the first tile is level, you can use it as a guide for placing all your other tiles. The corners can be used to guide proper alignment.

Trim Around Outlets

Chances are you have an electrical outlet or switch on the wall that you need to work around. A razor blade works great for cutting out shapes in ceiling tiles. Make a light cut on your tile where the hole needs to be. Then bend your tile from side to side until the tile snaps into two pieces. Just make sure the wall plate will extend slightly over the tile to cover any rough edges.

While this is an easy job you can do on your own, be sure to call a contractor if you need help with any bigger home renovations or if you decide your kitchen could use a professional touch.


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