How to: Install Ceramic Tile Over Sheetrock

A backsplash can be added to any smooth, flat wall material, including drywall or sheetrock. The key is the use of a proper adhesive. Drywall is fairly porous. Thinset supplies a waterproof barrier that protects the drywall from moisture. The process requires proper preparation of the wall, such as smoothing the surface and fixing any existing holes. Once the sheetrock is repaired and any dust or dirt cleaned off the wall, installing the backsplash follows basic tile installation guidelines.

• 1

  Spread premixed thinset onto the wall with the flat edge of a notched trowel, covering an area of 1 to 2 square feet.

• 2

  Drag the notched edge of the trowel across the thinset while holding the trowel at a 45-degree angle to the wall to create grooves in the thinset.

• 3

  Press the tile into place by hand, starting at the lowest point. Hold the tile in place for a few seconds to ensure that the tile adheres to the wall. Press the next tile into place adjacent to or above the first tile.

• 4

  Insert a tile spacer of the desired size for the grout lines into the space between the two tiles. Adjust the second tile so that the spacer is held in place.

• 5

  Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until the 1- to 2-square foot area is covered with tiles spaced with tile spacers. Repeat the whole process until the entire backsplash is erected, making cuts as necessary with a tile saw for areas such as outlet covers or edges. Allow the thinset to dry according to drying times listed on the container.

• 6

  Remove the tile spacers and press premixed grout into the gaps between the tiles, using the flat side of the trowel. Hold the trowel at 45 degrees and pull grout into the gaps. Work in 1- to 2-foot-square sections until the grout fills each gap within the section. Clean off the grout from the tiles, using a sponge with a bucket of water. Repeat the process until grout is applied across the whole backsplash.