How to Install a Marble Tile Backsplash

Boost your kitchen's wow factor in a three-day weekend by installing a timeless Carrara marble backsplash in an updated subway tile pattern.

By H. Camille Smith
Filed under: Kitchen Backsplash, Kitchen Tile, Kitchens, Backsplash, How To, Traditional, Marble, Tile

Place Individual Tiles Around Outlets

Applying full sheets of mesh-backed tile to the wall can be tricky around outlets or other obstacles, so it's easiest to cut apart and set individual tiles around these. Using a razor blade or scissors, cut tiles away from the mesh backing (Images 1 and 2). To apply, "back-butter" the tiles by spreading a layer of mortar onto the back of each tile rather than applying the mortar directly to the wall (Image 3).

Cutting Tiles

Marking cuts is easy: Simply hold a whole tile in front of the area you need to cover and make a light pencil mark where you need to cut (Image 1). Turn on the wet tile saw, allowing water to coat the blade. Position tile so the blade will hit on your marked line and slowly move tile through the saw (Images 2 and 3).

Note: Marble is delicate. If you force the tile through too quickly, your cut will not be smooth. Back-butter and position your cut tiles around outlet, sliding them under the outlet's metal clips (Image 4).

Keep It Level

As you go, use the spirit level to ensure a straight line. This is especially important in any areas that aren't resting on the countertop, like behind the stove.