
Backsplash installation for kitchen
Kitchen Backsplash Installation
A well installed kitchen backsplash protects your walls from steam, splashes, and everyday cooking mess, while tying the whole room together. Whether you want a clean subway tile look, a bold mosaic feature, or a seamless slab style, precise installation is what keeps it looking sharp for years. We install backsplashes with careful planning, tidy workmanship, and attention to details like edges, outlets, and clean grout lines.
Backsplash Options and What We Install
Every kitchen is different, so we help you choose a solution that suits your style and practical needs. We work with common backsplash materials and layouts, and we can advise on what performs best behind hobs, sinks, and high use prep areas.
- Ceramic and porcelain tile for durable, easy care walls and consistent grout lines.
- Glass tile and mosaics for reflective finishes and feature sections.
- Natural stone such as marble or travertine, with the right sealing approach.
- Large format tiles for fewer grout joints and a modern feel.
- Metal or specialty panels where heat resistance and a sleek finish are priorities.
If your project includes updates to cupboards or worktops, it often makes sense to coordinate timings. Many clients book backsplash work alongside kitchen unit assembly so spacing and alignment are correct before we tile.
Our Installation Process
1. Site check and layout planning
We start by measuring the area and checking the condition of the wall surface. Then we plan the tile layout to avoid awkward slivers at corners and to keep features like niches or windows balanced. We also mark key lines so the first course is level and the finished pattern is symmetrical where it matters most.
2. Surface preparation
A backsplash will only stay flat and crack free if the surface is solid. We remove old splashback material when needed, clean grease or residue, and ensure the wall is suitable for adhesive. Uneven areas are corrected so tiles sit flush, and we protect worktops, floors, and nearby cabinetry before any cutting or mixing begins.
3. Cutting and fitting around details
Kitchens include lots of obstacles, sockets, switches, pipes, and corner returns. We cut tiles accurately for tight edges around outlet boxes and keep lines consistent across the whole run. Where appropriate, we use trim pieces or mitred edges for a neat border, especially at exposed ends.
4. Grouting, sealing, and finishing
After tiles set, we grout with the right product for the joint width and location. We clean haze carefully so the surface stays crisp and uniform. Where required, we seal natural stone and apply flexible sealant at change of plane points such as countertop to wall joins to help prevent cracking.
Quality Details That Make the Difference
Small choices can have a big impact on the final look. We focus on the finishing touches that separate an average backsplash from a professional one.
- Level starting line so grout joints run straight across the kitchen.
- Consistent spacing using appropriate spacers and checking alignment often.
- Clean edges with trims, neat cuts, and smooth transitions at corners.
- Careful work near cabinets to avoid damage to doors, panels, and hardware.
- Proper curing time so the installation reaches full strength before heavy use.
If your cabinets or shelving need adjustment before tiling, we can coordinate with related services such as professional furniture repair to correct door alignment or stability issues that might affect the backsplash line.
What to Prepare Before Your Appointment
A little preparation helps the installation go smoothly and keeps downtime to a minimum. Before we arrive, clear the countertop area and remove small appliances where possible. If you have the tiles, grout, trim, and adhesive on site, we can confirm quantities and check that everything matches the planned layout. If you are still selecting materials, share links or photos and we can help you avoid common issues like mismatched trim depth or unsuitable grout for porous tile.
Some kitchens need minor coordination with other trades, especially if electrical outlets are being moved or new lighting is being added. When furniture or cabinets are being added at the same time, booking flat pack furniture assembly before the backsplash ensures we tile to the final positions, not temporary ones.
Pricing and Scheduling
Costs depend on the size of the area, tile type, pattern complexity, and the amount of preparation required. Simple straight tile runs are typically quicker, while mosaics, herringbone patterns, and multiple corner returns require more cutting and time. We provide clear estimates based on your kitchen layout and the materials you choose, and we schedule work to minimise disruption so you can get back to using your kitchen as soon as possible.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen with a backsplash that looks great and performs well every day. Contact us to discuss your design ideas, share measurements or photos, and book an installation time that fits your schedule.
FAQ
How long does a kitchen backsplash installation take?
Many standard backsplash areas can be completed in 1 to 2 days, depending on tile type and the amount of cutting around outlets and corners. Grout and sealant may need additional curing time before heavy cleaning or splash exposure.
Do I need to remove the old backsplash before installing a new one?
Not always. If the existing surface is stable, flat, and suitable for bonding, tiling over it may be possible. We will assess the wall condition first and recommend removal when it is the safest option for a long lasting result.
What grout and sealant should I use behind the sink and hob?
Water prone areas usually benefit from a quality grout matched to the joint width and a flexible sealant where the countertop meets the wall. Natural stone often needs sealing, and we will advise based on the specific tile and kitchen conditions.