Metal ceiling tile backsplashes are a beautiful and affordable way to update the look of any room. Whether you use a metal ceiling backsplash in your bathroom, kitchen, or even your outdoor BBQ, installation is so easy you can do it yourself.
Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to install a metal ceiling tile backsplash in any areas
- Start by measuring the area you want to apply a backsplash to with a tape measure. Keep in mind any areas you will need to cut the tiles and calculate that into the number of tiles you order. If you are worried you might order the wrong amount of tiles, we have an easy return policy so you can definitely overestimate your measurements.
- Pick out the tiles that you want from Metal Ceiling Express. Any tile style, color, or metal can work in this in particular application. However, we recommend that you also consider ordering matching finished edging for clean edges and a professional look to your backsplash project.
- Once you get your metal backsplash tiles, lay them out to make sure that you ordered a sufficient number of tiles for your installation. There’s nothing worse than running out of materials mid-project.
- When you are ready to begin installation you will want to make sure that you have all the tools you need.
- For this project, we recommend a pencil, measuring tape, a level, a utility knife or tin snips, clear silicone caulk, a caulking gun, a caulk smoothing tool, tile adhesive (either silicone adhesive or tile mastic), and rubber gloves.
- Start the project by preparing the surface. Remove any existing backsplash tiles or finishes. Brush or scrape off any debris and glue that may have been left behind.
- You may need to use sandpaper to smoothen the surface. If that is the case, start with a coarse grit and work your way to a fine grit until the surface is smooth
- Then clean any dirt, dust, or debris using a tack cloth followed by a microfiber cloth so you don’t lead any dust behind. Before you begin make sure the surface is completely dry.
- Next, remove any outlet or light switch covers or anything else that will impede the installation process. Make sure you also clear anything off your counter area, so you have a safe space to work.
- Measure the surface and determine where you want your center area to begin your design. Keep in mind any area that you will have to make a cut and try to place your tiles out of sight (like under the overhead cabinetry or along a corner wall). If you lay your tile out smartly you will be able to hide these areas and create a smooth, uninterrupted look. So take your time planning and trying a few different layouts.
- Once you have decided where your center line will go measure, the area and draw two straight pencil lines for the edges using your level as a guide.
- Apply adhesive to the entire surface of the tile, applying a thicker layer in the center and a thinner layer toward the edges to prevent excess adhesive from oozing out along the edges.
- Line the tile up with the guide-lines you drew earlier and lightly press into place. Take your level and make any adjustments so the tile is completely straight. Then press the tile in place firmly; pressing from the center outward, making sure all the edges lay flat.
- Hold the tile in place until the adhesive has formed a strong bond with the wall and wipe any excess adhesive around the edges. Repeat this process with all of the tiles you do not have to cut.
- Once you get to an area where you have to make a cut, such as a corner, or an edge or around an outlet, start by measuring the area with the measuring tape and take notes of the dimensions with your pencil. Double and triple check your measurements to make sure they are correct. It is better to exercise caution and over measure the area, then waste a tile making a bad cut.
- Once you have your measurements, measure your tile and draw a straight pencil line using the level as a guide where you will need to cut.
- Cut out the measurements with either a utility knife or tin snips. Then test the tile in the area to make sure it fits. If there’s a little excess, trim the area. Once you are sure the tile fits properly, apply the adhesive and attach the tile to the wall.
- If you are using finished edging, measure the area where you intend to apply them and cut them with tin snips or a utility knife. Then apply a thin line of adhesive and attach them to the area using the level as a guide. If there is any excess adhesive, wipe it off with a cloth.
- Once you’ve applied all the tiles to your backsplash. You’ll want to go back over and clean up any excess adhesive and check all the tiles and edges to make sure they are secure.
- On the edges of the tile add a thin bead of silicone caulk and smooth the caulk lines with the caulk smoothing tool or with a damp finger, cleaning any excess caulk. You want to try to make the caulk line invisible to the eye but also apply enough that it protects the edges. If you are using finished edges, apply a thin bead of the clear silicone caulk along both of the edges, smooth with the caulk smoothing tool or a damp finger, and clean any excess.
- Put any light or outlet switch covers back on and you are done.
- Consider applying a thin layer of polyurethane (or similar protectant) to the backsplash to protect the finish from getting eroded, especially if this is in your kitchen or bathroom.
Installing a metal ceiling tile backsplash is actually quite easy.
So what are you waiting for? If you’ve always wanted a metal ceiling tile backsplash, just follow these simple instructions and you’ll have a beautiful new design feature!
Check out our large variety of metal backsplash tiles that you can use for your backsplash application!