How To Install Stone Backsplash In The Kitchen

The backsplash is the material that covers the wall in the middle of the countertop and cabinets. Backsplashes protect the walls against substances that can stain or harm them. There are various types of backsplashes. Stone backsplashes are on top of all backsplashes that give kitchens a unique and luxurious look because of their vast range of beautiful designs.

Installing a stone backsplash is a great way to protect the wall from stains and scratches. However, proper planning is needed to install a creative design stone backsplash in the kitchen.

Caesarstone has detailed articles on various stones. In this guide, we share the best stone backsplashes for your kitchen and also how to install a stone backsplash.

Types of stone backsplashes

There are various types of stone backsplashes. You need to install a high-quality backsplash that enhances the beauty of your kitchen. Below, we mention some kinds of stone backsplashes so that you can choose the best for your kitchen.

Marble Backsplash

One of the most expensive stone backsplashes is a marble. The reason for the popularity of marble among homeowners is its luxury and spectacular look. But marble backsplashes can stain and scratch because of their porous nature.

In terms of design possibilities, marble is on top of all. Marble has a bit higher maintenance cost as compared to other stone backsplashes. Marble backsplashes are easy to clean with the help of warm water and dish soap. Mix baking soda and water, then use its mixture to remove obstinate stains.

Granite Backsplash

Granite is a commonly used backsplash perfect for kitchens with granite countertops. Granite backsplash is resistant to stains. Cleaning oil stains and any sticky liquid on Granite backsplash is easy.

Make sure to choose high-quality granite with a non-porous nature for your kitchen backsplash. Granite backsplash can give your kitchen an enchanting look. In addition, granite backsplashes are relatively cheaper than other stone backsplashes.

Granite backsplashes are also durable and heat resistant. However, keep in mind that some granite backsplash styles are expensive. Granite backsplashes can also be stained if you don’t properly care for them.

Slate Backsplash

Slate backsplashes are highly durable, fire-resistant, and attractive. Slate backsplashes are used worldwide and are perfect for kitchens. If you are looking for backsplash material that lasts for years, then slate stone is ideal for your kitchen backsplash. Slatestone comes with a variety of color combinations and patterns. Slate backsplashes are best for classic and modern kitchens.

Travertine Backsplash

Travertine stone is a laminate type, which can be used as a backsplash. Travertine backsplashes are very decorative, with a variety of colors and speckles. In addition, they are resistant to water, grease, and sticky liquids. To maintain the durability of the Travertine backsplash, proper care of it is necessary. Travertine backsplashes also have low maintenance costs as compared to other stone materials.

Mosaic Backsplash

Mosaic has gorgeous designs perfect for kitchen backsplashes. Mosaic backsplashes are durable and easy to install. In as much as sharp objects can scratch a mosaic backsplash. Nevertheless, Its elegant look makes it unique from other stone backsplashes.  In case of poor maintenance, mosaic backsplashes can be cracked and stained.

Installation of Stone Backsplash

Once you decide which stone backsplash is perfect for your kitchen, the next step is how to install stone backsplash in the kitchen.

Required tools and material

Tools and materials required for installing stone backsplash are measuring tape, chalk line, level, trowel, tile adhesive, tile cutter, 1/4 inch spacers, grout float, grout, sponge, soft clean cloth, caulk, caulk gun, etc. It’s best to get some information about the required tools and materials from the experts of stone backsplash.

Take measurement

Take measurements in square feet of the area you want to install a backsplash. Make sure to note measurements precisely.

Backsplash stone for kitchens

Based on measurements, purchase the stone you want for your kitchen backsplash. Buy extra stone/tiles because they can be damaged during installation.

Prepare the walls

If you have an old backsplash, remove it. Make sure the wall is clean of debris and smooth for the installation of a stone backsplash. Also, note the distance between the countertop and the cabinets.

Cut the tiles

Based on measurements, cut the tile with the cutter so that it can fit on the wall. Then, check the tile against the wall to confirm whether its size fits enough to install on the wall.

Installing tiles on the wall

Some DIYers apply compound on the wall, then cling tile to the wall. Sometimes, it’s good to pour the mixture on the tile with a grooved trowel and bond it to the wall.

Install tiles horizontally on the wall

Install tiles horizontally at the bottom row. After the completion of the first row, continue moving upward. Make sure the edges of the tiles are aligned to each other if they are not, remove the tile and reapply again.

Cleaning tile surface

After the installation of some tiles, clean the surfaces of the tiles with water and a sponge. Also, clean the excess compound on the tiles and use spacers that help level the installed tiles.

Apply grout

After installing the stone backsplash on the wall, you need to wait for the next day to apply grout between the spaces of tiles. First, mix the grout according to the instructions of experts. Then use it to fill the gaps between tiles gently.

Wait for 10-15 minutes, then again use a wet sponge to clean the excessive grout between and on the tiles. Grout can take around four hours to cure. To prevent water from getting behind the stone backsplash, make sure to apply caulk at the junction of the countertop and backsplash. Now you have successfully installed a stone backsplash in the kitchen.

Conclusion

In this guide, we share various types of stone backsplashes so that you can choose the best stone backsplash for your kitchen. You also learned the exact method of applying stone backsplash in the kitchen and how to install stacked stone backsplash.