How to Install a Backsplash with SimpleMat

Tile backsplashes, countertops and shower walls are popular home improvements, but homeowners face some common problems when considering these investments. 

The traditional way of installing a backsplash isn’t easy for do-it-yourselfers. And the alternative — hiring a professional for the job — is too expensive.

Backsplash Installation: What You Should Know 

The average backsplash costs about $1,000 to install, according to HomeAdvisor. The actual cost reflects materials used, the job’s complexity (like angles to work around), and even transporting materials to the job site. 

You may have to pay $400 to $500 per day, and that’s just for labor. Keep in mind that a professional backsplash installation often takes two days! 

Compared to those costs, the DIY route is more attractive to homeowners — and the simpler the project is, the better. But that’s a problem with thinset mortar, a tile adhesive.

First, you have to spread the mortar with the trowel’s flat side and then create ridges with its notched side. Then you have to wait for the tile to set — cure time varies a lot and could be 16 hours or more!

Slowly, but surely, the process comes together, but who has that kind of time?

That’s why I love time-saving tools like SimpleMat from Custom Building Products. This double-sided adhesive mat is designed to bond tile to drywall and many other surfaces without the hassle.

SimpleMat comes in two options, depending on your preference and coverage needs: 

• Sheets: One box contains nine sheets — each 9 inches by 8 inches — that cover 10 square feet. (In fact, I used sheets to create this backsplash in a Palmdale, California, home!) 
• Roll: The Contractor Roll, which covers 30 square feet, makes it even easier to install tile on countertops, backsplashes and shower walls in the quickest, cleanest way possible.

Both options do the same job — so you can just pick whichever is more convenient.

And now, let’s install a DIY backsplash!

First, you have to spread the mortar with the trowel’s flat side and then create ridges with its notched side. Then you have to wait for the tile to set — cure time varies a lot and could be 16 hours or more!

Slowly, but surely, the process comes together, but who has that kind of time?

That’s why I love time-saving tools like SimpleMat from Custom Building Products. This double-sided adhesive mat is designed to bond tile to drywall and many other surfaces without the hassle.

SimpleMat comes in two options, depending on your preference and coverage needs: 

• Sheets: One box contains nine sheets — each 9 inches by 8 inches — that cover 10 square feet

• Roll: The Contractor Roll, which covers 30 square feet, makes it even easier to install tile on countertops, backsplashes and shower walls in the quickest, cleanest way possible.

Both options do the same job — so you can just pick whichever is more convenient.

And now, let’s install a DIY backsplash!

Backsplash Installation Materials:

• Tiles
• SimpleMat
• Fusion Pro, Polyblend Grout, SimpleGrout and Prism Ultimate Performance Grout
• Tape Measure
• Grout Float
• Wet Saw
• Grout Sponge

1.  Measure the Area

SimpleMat, again, comes in rolls or sheets. We’re using sheets for this project because it’s a small space. But the rolls really come in handy for long walls. 

First, lay out the area, using full sheets when possible. Then, cut the remaining sheets to size with regular household scissors. Mark any cuts for obstacles such as electrical outlets, light switches and molding, and cut those out the same way or with a utility knife.

2. Prep the Surface

Concrete, drywall, plywood and laminates are just some of the surfaces that you can tile over with SimpleMat. Regardless of the area you’re working on, it needs prepping.

For backsplash installations, use a degreaser or diluted dish soap and wipe the walls clean. Then let them dry completely.

For countertops, set a level on the surface to make sure they’re even. If they are, go ahead and remove dust and debris, de-grease the area and wipe it down with a damp sponge.

3. Apply Sheets to the Wall

Remove SimpleMat’s paper backing and apply each sheet to the wall. (We’re sticking the back of the mat to the wall right now — we’ll work with the front of the mat later.) Then use a grout float to flatten air bubbles and creases.

If the phone rings while you’re doing all this, feel free to answer it! SimpleMat is different from mortar in the best way because there’s no rush. You can work at your own pace and set tile on your timeline. 

Be sure to wait until your tiles are prepped before removing the clear plastic film, though! Once you expose the adhesive beads, you’ll need to work as quickly as possible.

4. Prep the Tiles

Now it’s the tiles’ turn for prepping. You can use SimpleMat with ceramic, porcelain, stone or glass tile that’s 1 inch by 1 inch or larger. Mosaic tile with an open mesh backing can also be used for backsplash installations. Tile shouldn’t be heavier than 7 pounds or larger than 8 inches by 8 inches.

I’m working with small tiles that are matted together. It makes cutting a lot easier than trying to cut tiny, individual tiles!

Measure the tiles and make cuts as needed with a wet saw. Then clean the backs of the tiles or stones with a damp sponge and let dry.

5. Press in Tiles

Remove each sheet’s clear plastic to expose the adhesive beads, and then lightly set tiles into place.

It’s OK if you make a mistake; adjust as needed! When you are ready to commit to a position, use a grout float to press the tile firmly into place.

Keep in mind, we’ve just applied SimpleMat and pressed our tiles onto the sheets at this point — no thinset mortar to deal with, and no excessive drying times to juggle.

Can you feel how much time and energy we’ve saved so far? I sure can!

6. Grout the Tiles

Finally, we’re grouting the backsplash. For the best results, do this immediately and always within 24 hours of setting the tile.

Hold a grout float at a 45-degree angle and apply Fusion Pro, Polyblend Grout, SimpleGrout or Prism Ultimate Performance Grout to the surface.

Carefully spread the grout into each joint, going over in multiple directions if necessary.

After you’re done with a small area, clean off the excess with a damp sponge using a circular motion.

Wait for the grout to set and harden; this varies a lot, so always read the grout’s instructions.

Then you can remove any haze with a clean, dry cheesecloth.

And that’s it!

You now have a beautiful backsplash in a fraction of the time it would take to use traditional installation methods.

Try this project, and let me know how it goes in the comments below!