I put up a backsplash in my kitchen. I have a problem. My bottom cabinets are not even so there is a gap. Over the length of one counter there is a 1/2 inch to a 3/4 inch gap. I don't have a wet saw. So I was wondering if anyone had any ideas on how I could make that gap look great without having to cut the tiles.
By Leanna from Covington, KY
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If the gap is at the end of the counter, simply move the tiles to the middle & make sure they are all spaced the same. When you fill in with a grout in a color close to same color as the tiles, you'll never notice the gap! Each tile should be about the same distance apart.
If the space is at the top (where the cupboards are) then do the same thing: Move the tiles higher up, then grout & filll bottom area with caulk to cover any blank areas.
You'll have to do this freehand & not use spacers. The trick is to get each tile space even. Start by working from each end, but first lay the tiles out on the counter top.. This way you'll know how big of a space between the tiles you'll need. This will look much better than having a tiny piece sawed off at the end anyway!
If you have already layed the tiles or don't want to hassle with this, go to Home Depot or a tile store & buy liner bars... These are tiles that are long & skinny (about the size of your little finger. They come in many widths & lengths including 1/2 inch & 3/4 inch width & in 4, 6 & 8 inch lengths. Pick one that's close to the color of your tile color & the same length.Most people use liner bars to "frame" in a tile mural, but you can use it at the end of your row to "finish" it. Look for a liner-bar that has glaze on all but the back side. That way, your end will have a finished look.
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I need some do-it-yourself advice from anyone who has tiled a backsplash in a kitchen. With money being tight we wish to tackle the project on our own. We have the tile, but are unsure of how to start the project. Any advice would be helpful.
Laurie from Marshfield, WI
You can talk to someone at a big box store such as Lowes or Home Depot, go to a store that specializes in selling tile that will be more than happy to explain the how to. Or read one of the many do it yourself books available the book stall in the big box stores. (02/24/2009)
By Harry
I tiled my black splash and large counter myself and it was so easy. Lowe's helped me choose the right adhesive $9.95 you get a lot also. (Habitat for Humanity) I got my grout from there along with some other tiles that I worked in together and got a 3D effect, also very easy to do. I used ceramic tiles and Lowe's will cut pieces to fit as they did for me. I got so many compliments on it from friends. Took me a couple of weeks by taking my time and thinking about how I wanted it done. Just think about your outlets, my tiles went around them and outlets were then recessed. (02/24/2009)
By ICE IN AZ
