Beautiful Massachusetts Backsplash Update
by
South Cypress
(IC: professional)
5 Materials
After moving into a new house and replacing the floors, Daria and Gabe decided it was finally time to tackle a new backsplash. While the kitchen was in great shape, the old backsplash with cornucopias and fruit basket inserts just weren't creating the vibe Daria was going for.
Daria says the backsplash renovation, while challenging, was a great way to spend time as a family. They learned a lot along the way while completing this "labor of love". While Daria and Gabe had never installed anything like a backsplash before, they were able to learn a lot from watching YouTube videos and getting much advice from South Cypress.
One thing Daria suggests when installing a backsplash is to make a test board with backsplash samples, thinset, and grout. Not only do you get to practice the install on a smaller scale, but also ensure that the final result is what you are going for.
One tricky issue Daria and Gabe came across was finishing the edges around the window. Being somewhat OCD, Daria says she had to find just the right pieces to fill in these gaps. This is one reason you want to wait until the project is done to throw out scrap pieces.
The final result is absolutely stunning. Daria chose this backsplash to help enhance the relationship between indoors and out around their home. She says, "We chose Anatolia's Fossil Rock Random Mosaic because the stone and slate pieces mirror not just the natural landscape, but also the stonework on the outside of the home. The glass pieces sparkle in the sunlight and tie into the existing black granite counters. The stainless steel bars tie into the home's modern aesthetic."
Daria learned some tips to share with those tackling their own backsplash projects:
Always properly seal your backsplash to protect your investment. Without proper sealing, grout and natural stones will get stained and it will be difficult to clean.
Using Schluter Profiles is a great way to get a sharp finished look on the end of any tiling project.
Not only will the Mianos enjoy their new kitchen for many years to come, but they can take pride in knowing they learned a new skill and were able to complete the project as a family.
This "Labor of Love" turned out fantastic!
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Published June 8th, 2015 10:50 AM
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2 of 93 comments
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Billi Young on Apr 06, 2019
Incredible look! I love the tile choice, im a sucker for the natural look but the glass pcs give that extra that takes this over the top! Well done!
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Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
What do you mean use masking tape on natural stone? It it to use to cover stone to keep grout off the stone?
I also would like to know what is meant by "use masking tape" on natural stone for grouting. Did you cover each piece of the natural stone tiles when grouting? Do you have any photos to show the grouting process? Thanks for posting; your project turned out beautiful!
You didn’t explain about removing the old tiles and how hard was it to get the back ready for tiling how smooth did it have to be? And than did you use verse abound white base for the adhesive? But it look fantastic!