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- 1). With your studfinder, determine the location of the first stud on either side of the existing backsplash. Mark a vertical line along the middle of it with your pencil. Mark a horizontal line one inch above the existing backsplash between the two horizontal lines.
- 2). With your jigsaw, cut all around the perimeter of the backsplash at your marked lines on either side and across the top horizontally. Cut along the corner where the backsplash meets the countertop. Pull out the whole rectangular piece, tile, drywall and all. You should be left with a rectangular hole with half the stud faces (about 3/4") visible on either vertical side.
- 3). Measure the dimensions of the hole. Transfer the measurements to your wetrock, using your level to draw the lines. Use your jigsaw to cut out the piece, cutting on the inside of your marked line so the piece is slightly smaller than the hole.
- 4). Set the piece in the hole. Secure it with drywall screws into the studs on the vertical sides, about one screw every six inches. Lay mesh tape over the seams along the top and sides, and top it with joint compound, using your drywall knife. When it dries, sand it smooth and apply a second layer of compound. Repeat for a third coat and third sanding, so the seam is smooth with the surrounding wall.
- 5). With your pencil and level, mark out the area you want for your new backsplash. It can be any size you want, but installation will go more easily if you size it so that it contains all full tiles with no cuts. (When measuring your tiles for your calculation, don't forget to add 1/8" per tile for the grout line.)
- 6). Spread tile adhesive over the backsplash area with your notched trowel. Press your tiles into place, putting plastic spacers between them. If cuts are necessary, make them with your tile saw. Once all the tiles are in place, pull out the spacers. Use the flat side of your trowel to remove any adhesive from the wall surrounding the backsplash. Let it set overnight.
- 7). Apply your pre-mixed grout to the tiles with your grout float, pressing it into the lines between the tiles. Wipe off the excess grout with a damp sponge. Also wipe off the wall surrounding the backsplash. Let the grout set for two days; then apply a grout sealer to it.
- 8). Retouch the paint on the wall around the new backsplash.
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