Did my first tile project ever on our kitchen backsplash last month - 22 sq ft of 3x12 subway tile in our North York kitchen. Sharing the process, mistakes, and lessons for other first-timers.
Why DIY?
Quotes ranged from $750-$1,100 for labour on a job that seemed manageable. Tile: $180 for the Daltile subway (bought extra, used about 19 sq ft). Decided to try it.
Tools Acquired
- Rented wet tile saw from Home Depot: $55/day
- Notched trowel (3/16" V-notch): $12
- Grout float: $14
- Grout sponge + bucket: $8
- Level, tape measure: had these
- Tile spacers (1/16"): $6
Total tool spend: $95 (wet saw rental + tools)
The Process
Day 1: Remove old backsplash (it was just painted drywall - confirmed no moisture damage), install cement board behind sink area, let dry overnight. 3 hours.
Day 2: Lay out tile dry, mark centre line, mix polymer-modified thinset, spread thinset with notched trowel in small sections, set tile. Got through 80% of the field tile. 5 hours.
Day 3: Cut and install perimeter and outlet tiles (all the tricky cuts). Hardest part - a few wasted tiles learning the wet saw. 4 hours.
Day 4: Apply Mapei Ultracolor Plus grout, clean, remove spacers. 3 hours.
Mistakes Made
Thinset coverage: first section I applied thinset to the wall but not the back of the tiles. Get 95%+ coverage on the back too for proper adhesion - learned this after reading it was the correct method.
Grout timing: applied grout a bit early (24 hours after thinset instead of 48). It was fine but set faster than expected.
Cutting: wasted 6 tiles figuring out the wet saw. Always budget 15% extra tiles.
Result
Looks great. Could not be happier. Total cost: $180 (tile) + $95 (tools) + $45 (thinset/grout/supplies) = $320 vs $750-$1,100 contractor quote. Saved $430-$780.
Is it perfect? No - look closely and some grout lines are slightly uneven. Does it look great in the kitchen? Yes.
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