DIY Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash

A beautiful kitchen backsplash can be installed and it doesn't have to cost you a fortune. While glass tiles and granite all looks real nice, there are hundreds of different vinyl designs that are equally appealing when used for a kitchen backsplash and the price is easy on the pocketbook too! The best part about installing a vinyl kitchen backsplash--besides the low price--is the fact that you can do it with minimal tools. All you need is a measuring tape or a ruler, a pencil, and a razor knife.

DIY Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash Materials:

Razor Knife
Pencil
Ruler
Vinyl Self Adhesive Tiles
Caulk
Caulk Gun
Paper

Prepping the Wall for a Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash: To begin the vinyl kitchen backsplash you will need to prep the wall for install. In most cases the backsplash can be installed right onto the existing drywall. You will want to remove any textured surface that may be existing on the wall so that the vinyl can be applied to a clean and smooth surface.

Measuring the Wall for a Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash: You should measure the entire wall for the backsplash including all areas in which you will install the vinyl. You can install the vinyl anywhere you choose but the common backsplash will run just behind the countertops up to the lower end of the top cabinets and behind the sink. Take measurements and create a diagram on paper that includes the measurements of all of the areas.

Layout for the Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash: The kitchen backsplash can be laid out in a variety of different ways to create a whole new look. You can always just place the vinyl tiles on the wall side by side but for a real elaborate (and expensive) look you should create a design pattern with the vinyl tiles. Incorporate more than one type or shape of tile to create depth and beauty in the design. Use the diagram and the measurements to lay out the entire vinyl backsplash before continuing.

Installing the Vinyl Kitchen Backsplash: The vinyl is really simple to install. Once you have chosen a layout, begin at the center point of the wall such as right behind the sink. Peel and stick the vinyl pieces onto the wall. Make sure that you have the vinyl in the exact place when you adhere it to the wall because you do not want to remove it and try to restick it as this will cause the edges to soon begin to fold from the wall.

Continue peeling and sticking vinyl pieces to the wall in the lay out that you designed. I like to work from the center and go out that way I can make adjustments on the edges of the tiles and not mess up the center focal points of the backsplash. Using the razor knife, you can trim away any excess vinyl to fit the pieces around close edges and run smoothly against the countertops.

When you have finished laying all of the vinyl pieces onto the wall for the kitchen backsplash you should use a caulk gun and coordinating caulk color to caulk around the edges of the backsplash where it meets up with the cabinets and the countertops. This will further prevent moisture from getting behind the backsplash.

Run a thin bead of caulk along the edge about 4 inches long and then using your finger gently smooth out the bead along the edge. Wipe your finger clean and continue with another bead of caulk along the next 4-6 inches. This completes the vinyl kitchen backsplash