How To Install A Subway Tile Backsplash

[@tidalbound]

I lost my dad when I was 17. Every once in a while, I find a “KZbin Dad” who makes me feel like I’m back in my childhood home, listening to my own dad as he’s teaching me to do home renovations. I’m 29 now and have fully renovated and sold my starter home myself. Friends and family call me for help with their renovations all the time. I’m looking forward to buying my “forever home” soon, and I’ll inevitably be leaning on my KZbin Dads for help when I do. Thanks for being a great KZbin dad, Jeff!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

This made my day, happy I can help. You’re Dad must be very proud of you. Cheers

[@fireboy4806]

This Jeff guy has THE BEST videos for all home projects!!!

[@2599robm]

I just finally went out and bought the material after watching this video. Backsplash was done by dinner the next day

[@coreyallan-audiovideo]

nice one!

[@saschaceleste9841]

Anyone available to help me answer this question? When Jeff says to place level and check which tile is completely in the picture of the laser, does he mean to use the tile that is set higher to base the level for the rest of the tiles?

[@robinhawkins416]

I just wanted to thank you - after two years of looking at damaged drywall when we removed the old 1991 backsplash in my kitchen, I used 3-4 of your videos to install a new one - from drywall installation, repair, tile setting, and grout. All while hubby was out of town :-). If I could post a photo I would; needless to say my husband was blown away and will never again argue with me when I want to tackle something myself. I will continue to check to see if you have tips for any new projects!!

[@sarahbethdippel6705]

Fantastic instructions! I am a total novice on ANY diy home projects. These instructions helped me install all the backsplash tile in my new kitchen with confidence and ease! Thank you so much!

[@carlpledger8719]

you have a strong camera presence. I could easily see you with your own television show. you engage the camera very well and you're quite articulate.

[@joshuafreeman6720]

Did it not dawn on you he has 850k + subscribers and lots of videos getting millions of views. Alot like a TV show lol

[@katiesimcik5602]

@@joshuafreeman6720 LOL

[@alexgoldman1508]

I was just thinking that as well. I really enjoyed watching him. Some of the videos you find are a little painful to watch.

[@theadhi3216]

If you like him so much why don’t you marry him?

[@tombombadilofficial]

Carl Pledger *and what limit the viewership with localization? KZbin has made it possible for guys like these to reach international viewers who would otherwise not see this because shows are available only in certain countries.*

[@stevenclark1973]

Excellent. 21 min vid and you done half the wall... I'd still be in the garage trying to find my trowel. Thankyou :)

[@scottkeefer5390]

Been there.

[@smitherik9427]

Haha preach on

[@kimcircagirl474]

Lol aww! 😄

[@staceyhagen5081]

So much truth here. :'D

[@michaellidster1389]

Lol

[@seansethi196]

Watching the glue spread, tile cutting machine, and tile laying were zen moments.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@albrentlinger2683]

Bless you . Was a pleasure to watch your video and hear you explain the process . Most video 's are crude and unprofessional. Thank you .

[@haidengeary8277]

The reason I watched this, was not to learn, but because I enjoy seeing where others have different habits etc. I have not tiled in years, but I did spend nearly 10 years working for an uncle. As a "saw-man", I was very well-disciplined, but, never got much of a chance to tile on-the-job, which is basically what pushed me away from this work. The only way I learned, was by being fed-up with not being given a chance, challenged. So , much like the gent in the video, I took it upon myself to tile my kitchen backsplash, kitchen floor, bathroom floor as well as the tub-surround. Anyway, I just wanted to thank you, for not making more difficult than it actually is. Your attitude, obvious patience, is something many others could make use of.

[@kburkett89]

Being a contractor, it’s really easy to spot “KZbin contractors” but this guy is the real deal! All the techniques he throws at you are very useful and the way he explains everything shows me he does this all the time! Great vid and will be watching more

[@nico56789-m]

I can honestly say that the storytelling that comes with the great advice is a major add on . Thanks!

[@nico56789-m]

Oh, and I succeeded because of you. :-)

[@Joeferacowboy]

This video helped me get my first ever tile job done and looking professional! Thank you for all the tips and areas of caution. I bought a basic tile saw but otherwise followed your recommendations and everything went flawlessly. Cheers!

[@shawndonahue2805]

working in kitchens 40 years. no i didn't make much money for my self but own one now and reno is going to look great! thanks for sharing brother!

[@rileyhudson7451]

I literally type in what ever project I'm planning on doing then "...diy Renovision" and there is a video, every time. Thanks a lot for doing what you do 👌

[@millertime3377]

Thanks man your videos have helped me build my company! You explain the process on all your jobs perfectly!

[@timothymeyer7466]

I work as a flooring specialist for Home Depot, I have recommended your videos on several occasions for different reasons and always heard good feedback from my DIY customers! Your videos are extremely helpful!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers timothy!

[@mikeoneill8987]

What to do when your wall has a bow wider that the thickness of the tile? Do you put extra thick adhesive on that area?

[@MrThefatheroftheyear]

Sheer crafting genius at work. Your teaching ability is off the charts!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

We appreciate that, Cheers!

[@markrobertson6578]

Thanks Jeff. Did my kitchen. Your tutorial made me look like a professional. Mark Robertson from Cape Town, South Africa.

[@LMG6989]

Great video and content!! Thanks for all the great tips to ensure the project comes out perfect. Also appreciated the safety for the grinder. 👍

[@sabogwepaks]

My eyes are glued watching your videos from start til the end! Very very informative! Thanks for sharing!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Very nice, I love the glued comment! Cheers!

[@timwallace6246]

Same for me. Amazing teacher.

[@stevensemeniuk6719]

I've been watching Jeff's for the last couple years. My dad tried teaching all of these basics as a teenager and had no interest (go figure). Now in my 30's I actually find the value of this information and it's really helped me do a lot of the work myself when the help isn't always available.

[@alipsettphoto]

I remember when I was 14, hammering in floor joist bracing and my dad, an old school journeyman carpenter, saying, "this might be information that you will want to pay attention too." Nope and now here I am!

[@nathanielcholewa8188]

Wow that exactly sounds like me

[@pacificwhim]

These videos taught me maybe the two most important lessons of home DIY that I've ever learned: rooms are never square and level, and every project has to account for the fact that materials expand contract with temperature and humidity. Accounting for those two facts changed everything for me and my results.

[@pnair5120]

Now, now , you know grinder shoildn't be used without guard! The rest of the video is absolutely excellent as are your other videos, very common sense & efficient with a beautiful finish product👍

[@astheruy8090]

Last year i took a big leap of renovating our studio flat. It was really in very bad state after my tenant left. this is one of many videos i watched to get me through the renovation process. I really cant believe I how everything turned out. Wish i can share it here. Thanks sir. Love your videos. And i also like that you dont use your channel for advertising brands.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers I only promote what I love.

[@stosgarage456]

Thanks to you I've saved thousands in labor fees and instead have bought the tools for me to keep. THANK YOU!!!!

[@nomadryder4377]

From doing backsplash, to transition on flooring. You've been the man to give someone confidence to do their own property. Thanks for the videos.

[@brianisjames]

Just did a back splash in my kitchen. it was a tough job. first time I ever worked with tile and it was a challenge. This video was so helpful. it took about all day. Thank you for the how to videos!

[@koffee911]

thank you for this... finally i understand the basics on how to get started... having a hard time getting a vendor to come out for such a small job... so once i get my hands wet, won't be calling anyone ever again... your grouting video was my pt2 to this... excellent info...

[@jevaniecooper4321]

I'm from Jamaica I've done a dry wall course and I'm doing a tiling course now and you have made me alot more knowledgeable than many in my class

[@YoanArnaudov]

Always fascinating to watch pros in different jobs.

[@joeyhollis7930]

Thank you so much Jeff! My wife and I had to put up some backsplash after having contractors install the cabinets and countertops, and after watching a couple of your videos, we absolutely rocked it!!! Wish there was a way to share the before and after pics but all of our friends are amazed that WE did the backsplash!!! Thanks again!!!

[@mikereimer6610]

2²2

[@Stevetrades]

Upload a video to your channel!

[@blewzluvr]

Definitely picked up some tips, thanks!💪🏼 So, the receptacle cover plates will extend out to allow for fastening screws? Was I wrong to notch my tiles to provide a path for the cover plate screws?

[@AngelaCoffman]

This is the best backsplash video I've found and I've seen several. Thank you for all the little tips to keep me from being frustrated. Our house is old and out of level. That's going to be the hardest part.

[@davec.3198]

Just an FYI told to me by an amazing tile guy of 40 years....white subway tiles want a level surface. They are small and have lots of grout lines and are reflective. Go with a larger tile, not a subway tile if you have an uneven wall. Or...fix the wall.

[@vchenzo5470]

Thanks for paying it forward. I'm sure the guy that gave you the crash course in tileing would be proud. Cheers.

[@wfgorski]

My daughter and I did her kitchen. No experience at all. This video and the grout video - that was it!

[@TheTheCena]

Amazing videos, all of them. I think we should mention that Jeff has a great camera guy/girl. The camera is following perfectly. Amazing job.

[@ashleydriskill9099]

this is one of the best DIY videos in content delivery. Thank you!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Wow, thanks!

[@alg4633]

Dang, I would of loved to have seen you tile below the ledger board to see how you handle the unevenness of the countertops. My kitchen has both uneven countertops AND Cabinets. I'm hoping the caulk will cover the imperfections. Also, it seems like the recommended size tile is 3" so you can minimize cuts with an 18" width between counter and cabinets thus limiting your selection of tile. Excellent video and a great confidence builder as I try to tackle this myself.

[@wc1445]

Have the same issue, how did you handle the non level counter where the wall meets the counter?

[@kelleylynnlaughlin210]

I watched all the way to the end for that very thing!

[@grantpenney2164]

At the very beginning he mentions how to handle it by slightly grinding the tiles along the first level to even our the placement. That is why the laser level is there from the beginning. I caught it because that was the main reason I watched the video in the first placE.

[@1234oclock]

I just need to say thank you. I’ve watched so many DIY backsplash videos, and yours was the only one to point out that you may need a ledger if your counter top isn’t level. I would have NEVER thought to check if it was level, and I would have been SO SCREWED because apparently one counter of my countertop is about 1/2” lower! Thank you, thank you, thank you for this awesome video!

[@caezarlapuc8627]

You are very thankful 👍

[@choenes]

I didn’t understand what you are supposed to do with the metal ledge? How to determine where it goes? Any how do you cut tile for the bottom row if it’s slightly off? Is there another video describing this process?

[@Peguero-Heredia]

I have the same question. Never touched on what you do with the bottom row. I thought the molding went the other way around and the tiles fit on that little edge😂

[@kimsutlive7812]

Had the same question with install below ledge.

[@rock-ness9610]

You have the best practicle video on installation. Thanks. I been prepping wall for a couple of days. It's within 1/8" in someplaces. Today is tiling day. Hope my walls won't let me down.

[@Sulacycle]

Jeff you are the best! Your can-do, encouraging attitude and genius pro tips have given me the confidence to tackle stuff I never would have thought I could do. Who knew I could hang cabinets? Now onto the backsplash and fireplace surround. The only question is, what to do with all these great tools I now have?

[@daltonldavis1995]

my guy, you are the Bob Ross of home renovation. much love.

[@haiderkasim]

As always great tips! I installed my backsplash using 3x12's and your technique of putting up the tile and then sliding it in place was very useful. Thank you so much!!!

[@motivateme4194]

Classic videos that will be around for a long time. Awesome content, that is as relevant today as it was yesterday.

[@PictureMaker22]

I come back to this channel for every home project. Thank you again.

[@fodog2003]

Thank you so much for making it so simple and doable. I'm a tenderfoot with DIY but you've made me confident by your step-by-step- approach and lucid explanations. You're a good teacher!

[@omaxman1]

You're amazing at explaining

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks for watching and the generous comment. Cheers!

[@geenjay7957]

omaxman1 Great...I have been a tiles man for 15yrs back in Nigeria. i moved to America 2yrs ago and loved to get bk to my trade.. I discovered minor differences in tiles installation here based on difference in building design n pattern. I just needed a brief view to catch up.u have given me the boost. U are indeed great tile installer.thanks

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Welcome to North America, I wish you all the success for your family! Cheers! godwin justice.

[@meganwatson7016]

Yeah, you're a good guy.

[@russwhitten2002]

Today's kids ministry

[@petefichter9518]

I watch each of your videos and I enjoy them thoroughly. I have learned soo much already. Thank you soooooo much for taking the time to help out ppl like me who want to learn and work on their house. Keep it up!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks Pete, that is why we are here. Help you save and make some money.

[@timtooth7254]

You're charismatic. You made this looks SO easy. You're funny with those little safety tips too; especially that angle-grinder "wheel-still-spinning" tip! You definitely get my thumbs up! 👍👍

[@michelereedcameron6961]

Jeff is amazing! I feel like I have struck gold! I love the way in which he makes the viewer feel like they are right there with him...and the little stories he tells make me smile!! I think I have a crush on him!!!!

[@rneustel388]

My first time to catch one of your videos, and I'm subscribing right now! You have an excellent teaching manner, and I've really learned a lot. This was quite timely, too, as we plan to put subway tile in our kitchen.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks for subscribing! Cheers!

[@TheSib]

My thoughts exactly, and same situation too. (Did we just become best friends? Yep! - Step Brothers movie)

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

OMG did we just become , like, a family ! TheSib

[@philmaher5553]

Great video

[@bellelosiraptor9393]

I agree with this you on this. I am not handy at all but this looks almost...encouraging. :)

[@paulatwinb2815]

Can't wait to start my first subway tile install! Fantastic video... including the audio, lighting, & camera angles.

[@ashleybaurrowell4280]

Haha! This guy sounds like my husband “The advantage of it is, I built it, so the wall is level” 🤣🤣

[@johnjtplastering6991]

New walls make it easier than you think

[@Rachy007]

Mine too 😂

[@c.xaviercartwright5163]

Thanks!

[@nicwright2932]

SO HELPFUL. THE GUYS GOT TIPS FOR DAYZ! THIS IS THE STUFF PEOPLE WANT TO SEE ON TUTORIALS. THANK YOU!

[@Smudgie33]

Love this. Great tip regarding the spare cutting wheel in the handle... just found mine and I’ve had the tile cutter 5+ years! lol

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

So awesome! Thanks for letting me know. Cheers!

[@troykress6394]

Love it, Jeff. You taught me how to build a shed this past summer, and now you’ve given me confidence for backsplash. Awesome video. Thanks!

[@Kennypeagler]

Im attempting to work on one of my properties and this was a lifesaver. Thanks for this info!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers, glad to be helpful!

[@candiceforney7000]

Its me again and I have the exact tile that we are doing in kitchen but ours is a little beveled. The way is video and your other grouting video helped us is wild! I mean broke it down, to the point, and thorough! Thanks for this video

[@mustanghill1259]

You are the best KZbinr. Thank you Jeff.

[@carolhedberg2341]

What a great instructor!! Thank you soooo much!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@garrysmythe]

very good video, your humour makes it a relaxing "watch", your advice is spot on, really enjoyed it so big thanks for posting from Garry in the UK

[@chrisholmesphotography2456]

I'm so glad I found this video! I've done some DIY tiling in my time, but we are re-doing our kitchen to a subway tile, and I was a bit nervous about getting it looking good. A ton of great little tips in here, and I'm very appreciative of that!

[@chrissammons828]

Excellent! Purchasing a new home with no backsplash. Figure before moving in, will put in a backsplash, paint, hardwood, etc... Just need the grouting video! :)

[@franknoblitt6265]

About to install a subway backsplash in daughters new home. Great video. Thanks!

[@jorluivil]

This has to be one of the best tiling videos that I’ve ever seen.

[@scottyee707]

This dude is like the Bob Ross of home renovation.

[@TViper2369]

Underrated comment IMO.

[@ve7yan]

With a Canadian touch ---- comme ca.

[@ashleybaurrowell4280]

I was thinking Bob Villa 😂

[@josephhobbs4754]

He makes a lot of happy little accidents

[@BPBomber]

You’re right. Completely different, yet his presentation voice evokes the same calming “you too can complete this difficult artistic task” feeling that Bob Ross did.

[@urbek10]

my tip would be priming walls first before applying tile mastic on unfinished walls to seal the surface so tile will grab better to drywall

[@dannyroberts1849]

urbek10 no lol

[@kauzeylive5598]

Danny Roberts what a dumbass lol this is not floors and it wouldn’t crack.

[@jamesduff6937]

@@Chris_POYP what sort of primer do you recommend?

[@curtiscleary790]

I'd give the wall a skim then seal it before tiling, other wise removing them tiles when you want a new look is going to destroy the plasterboard.

[@doitmyselfer1952]

I love watching your videos for projects & ideas. Your to the point but w/perfect details and visuals. I'm so glad I came across your name on KZbin. You are definitely a favorite!

[@koolken-iu1mo]

Just wanted to say how much I like your channel, and is pretty well the only one I watch. Thanks for solving a lot of home Reno mysteries with a clear and easy to understand tutorial from a fellow Canadian eh!

[@Redwoods2024]

Great video. But a bit perplexed as why you did not show grouting and especially what you do with the bottom as it meets the countertop. Do you cover the lowest grout line with water proof silicone caulk/clear, or use grout sealer or etc? Any recommendations appreciated. Thanks.

[@justincourt668]

Well he cant grout it right away.. I'd wait until the next day to do that. Where the tile meets the counter you'll have to scribe your tile depending your situation and cut it as per. As far as counter to tile you chaulk it. I've had home owners want it grouted. It depends on who it's for really.

[@MarcusBoswell]

Enjoyed this video. Very confident and useful giving confidence someone like me who hasn't done anything like that before. Great information.

[@compulsivecrafter]

I would like to see how you complete the bottom row.

[@alanalain4884]

He says at the beginning. You cut tiles to size, place cut edge down as it will be siliconed and the sharp edge wont show so much with the silicone.

[@maximemclaughlin8752]

@@alanalain4884 Do you think he removes the L trim before installing the bottom row?

[@alanalain4884]

@@maximemclaughlin8752 I would think so.

[@brittanywhitlock8231]

Thats what i was waiting to see if he takes the trim off and is it only for the beginning to ensure it is level 🤷🏼‍♀️ still a very helpful video

[@dugney]

Cut to fit, and glue the tiles individually and place...Silicone after grouting is done.

[@alejandroalvarez1544]

I watched your tile videos and it gave me courage to tackle kitchen backsplash after starring at unfinished wall for nearly 3 years. Thanks.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Great job!

[@Shannon-rm6tc]

I’m the most talentless person when it comes to projects like this. But, the information put out was easy to follow and let sink in. I have a bit more confidence in doing my kitchen in the coming months. Thank you. (Video saved!)

[@chriscoyle1855]

Great tutorial thank you! I got a subway backsplash job coming up and it's been years since I tiled, this was exactly what I needed! I'm a little nervous about what I'm gonna do if the counter isn't straight but I guess I'll cross that bridge if I have to ... Cheers!

[@tbird6234]

Once again, fantastic video. My wife and I just bought a condo and are renovating. I hope to do this in our bathroom. Thanks!

[@aguinagar75]

Just a few tricks of trade with the subway tile turn it on the short side up against the long side usually is the exact center to get a continuous uniform line for same cuts on opposite side of wall on a level wall only for professional finish

[@TheSeancassady]

What's your thought on him starting on one wall and working across instead of starting in the middle? I see possible issues when you get to the other wall...

[@TalariaDave13]

Love how simple you make everything. No extra bullshit to talk about straight to the point. Nice

[@adamgrin5039]

I really enjoy your videos-they're well-crafted and easy to follow.

[@johnsutton2527]

Im from England, i love ya work, you have showed me well , its made my wife happy...lol

[@Toypesado]

I read your comment with a acsent! Lol

[@kendracrowley4324]

This is exactly what I was looking for, thank you!!!

[@stephensears7483]

What a great tutorial - thank you for sharing your experience!

[@Ozymand1as1]

Really helpful. The chat is as informative as watching the job being done.

[@LoremIpsumPeach]

Absolutely love white subway tile

[@You_Can_FOO_It]

Jeff, Thanks for all you do! Always great detailed information. Looking to do a backslash project in the near future and wondering what you did with the straight edge you screwed to the wall after to top portion was dry. I assume you unscrewed it and put a final row of tile in underneath to touch the countertops?

[@19910601wsj]

Why this man doesn't have a TV show yet is beyond me.

[@BILLDOW4u]

On point and amazing!!! QUESTION: Did you use the transitional metal for the start of your second row up from bottom or is that the actual bottom row that was laid down first? The gap between the trash bag cover and the placement of the metal looks like it's the start for the second row? Brilliant idea's and tips on all your vids!!!

[@daveroski]

That is what I am wondering!

[@loriandrade7045]

I am wondering the same thing, so how do you finish that gap?

[@jeffoneil3604]

This is really old, but judging from other videos he goes back and does the bottom row once above that leveled straight edge has dried

[@moreteavicar0]

Thanks for the hints and tips. I’ve done a few tiling jobs at home but there were some great pointers here.

[@joshuakozlowski9643]

You made me feel a lot more confident about doing the tile job so thank you ! Loved the stories in between.

[@veronica33s45]

Sir you deserve all the subscribers in the world

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers! working on it. LOL

[@wemc3]

Great information.. captured my attention from start to finish! Boosted my confidence x1,000!

[@duckels1]

Tried checking the videos around this and the a to z vid, what's the strip under the tile for and what is it? Looks like a plastic corner bead he's installed to have a level line to build on, is that what that's for?

[@munchball5825]

I would find this video after I did tile by tile lol… didn’t turn out bad for the first time but your way is definitely a time saver for future projects… you’re the man

[@jsguy100]

Did the same thing. My back hurts just thinking about it now

[@pnair5120]

Jeff, As an architect, I applaud your skills & teaching methods👏👏👏 Keep producing , we have learned a lot from your practice practice & teachings. Keep on👍🖖

[@kingleginsr]

I love you watching your vids bro; Thank you so much for giving us the time and just shwoing us the DIY's

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks Nigel, It is our pleasure to bring you the vids. Stay tuned we have a deck renovation video tomorrow. Cheers!

[@ralph5450]

Home RenoVision DIY Just getting ready to redo a deck. Will like to see what you have in store for us on that.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

see you in the morning!

[@ralph5450]

Home RenoVision DIY what time? I'll set my alarm

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

already out. It viewed at 7:30. even I missed that one.

[@provencecrnko2533]

Jeff, what did you use for where the tile meets the counter top? Thanks!!

[@JH-jb9gj]

Yes I am trying to figure this out. Looks like a metal piece but then does someone give over that?

[@JH-jb9gj]

Do you put tile over the meter piece that is at the counter top?

[@JH-jb9gj]

Metal*

[@jungkim3553]

Hi Jeff - thank you for this video! I am going to be doing our kitchen backsplash soon and your tips and tricks are super helpful. Couple questions for you: How do you deal with the kitchen corner? Do you continue the offset pattern around the corner or mirror the tile? What grinder disc would you recommend for subway tiles? How long can you wait until grouting and caulking?

[@mathieubilodeau7622]

Those small "tips and tricks" made a huge difference, thanks man

[@bnetolldnataman]

Love you work. That’s another subscription!! Make it look so easy. “Cheffing” is a mug’s game. You gotta really love cooking 👍👌