Tile Projects: Simple Keys to Home Improvement Success

When my wife decided that our kitchen needed a bit of an upgrade and suggested that adding some tile backsplash behind the sink and stove would bring a much needed freshness to the room, I was all for it. When she told me that we would save a lot of money if I would do it myself, it would be an understatement to say my excitement waned.

I put her off for as long as possible, but when I realized she wasn't giving up, I decided it was best if I gave in. Lucky for me, there are plenty of other suckers, I mean husbands out there, who have tackled similar projects. There is a wealth of information out there on the proper way to do tile projects such as backsplash or flooring that help a novice feel confident that they can succeed.

Once my mind was made up, I dove in. I scoured the internet and discovered that there are numerous articles out there written for people like me in mind. I won't list them here, but I will outline a few things that should help you get started. Now, before you grab your trowel and start your tile project, here are my three keys to success.

First, call your local Home Depot and sit in on one of their classes for the type of job you are considering. Their staff is trained and can help you tackle your project by providing a great deal of helpful information. You'll walk out of there brimming with confidence. Even if they continually use you as the guinea pig for the hands on portion and tell the others "Look, if this guy can do it, anyone can." Pride aside, it is worth the humor at your expense. Or stop by a Lowe's Home Improvement store and check out their 'How-To Library'. If you want to do a project, they will have a book on it.

Second, find a friend who will let you borrow their wet saw. That will save you the headache of renting. It will also afford you plenty of time to carefully do the work and prevent you from buying something you might never use again. When the clock starts ticking and your wasting time trying to figure out how to cut 'L' shapes into your tile with a deluge of water blasting into your face, knowing you won't be charged for turning the machine in late will save you a huge headache. Plus it will give your buddy a chance to give you that look he's always wanted to give you. You know the look, the one of utter confusion at being asked by you for such a ludicrous favor. Also, remember what my wife told me, "Please don't cut your fingers off."

Finally, if you want to succeed, don't panic. Tiles will break. Straight cuts may turn out to be crooked. Grout will fall into your sink drain, although that is not the goal. Expect the unexpected and get through it. Many of your mistakes can be salvaged later. Any mess made can be cleaned up if you tackle it quickly. Inexperience may be your biggest enemy, but maintaining a calm and level head can be your greatest asset. An actual "level" would also be a good asset as well.

Remember the words of wisdom I received from the store I bought my tile from. A very kind associate there told me, "There is really no mistake you can make that money and some of our professionals here can't fix". That sold me. Hopefully it will do the same for you. So, no more excuses, get busy!