Top Reasons To Avoid DIY for Your Kitchen Backsplash Project

You take pride in everything you do, so why not take on some home improvement projects? While some tasks, like adding interior decor, are great DIY ventures, others require professional installation, like installing kitchen backsplashes. 

A do-it-yourself kitchen backsplash seems simple enough, but without the right experience or equipment, you could end up with cheap-looking results that don’t quite match your vision. 

As the go-to experts for kitchen remodeling in Glendale, CA, our Payless Kitchen Cabinets team can explain why you should always opt for a professional backsplash installation. 

do it yourself kitchen backsplash

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Going the DIY Route

The right backsplash can transform your kitchen and turn it into one of your favorite rooms. If you want the best results possible while minimizing hassle, it’s best to hire a professional instead of trying to do it yourself. 

Hiring an expert can also help you avoid these common mistakes, giving your project a much greater chance of success.

Not Properly Preparing the Kitchen Wall

When it comes to backsplash installation, you need to make sure the kitchen wall is ready before moving on to any tile installation. 

One common mistake that homeowners make is applying the backsplash tile directly over the plaster or drywall. You might not think this is a big deal, but it can create uneven finishes and awkward-looking results. 

Tiles need a smooth, clean finish for proper adhesion and longevity. Professionals know exactly what surface preparation takes for tile installation. They can make any necessary repairs, clean the area, and equip your kitchen wall for the new backsplash with proper tile adhesive surfacing.

Taking the Wrong Measurements

A do-it-yourself kitchen backsplash won’t look the way you want it to if you use inaccurate measuring techniques. Cutting tiles requires much more than measuring the length and height of your kitchen wall. You also need to consider:

  • The faucets and sink
  • Your appliances
  • Any window ledges
  • The water tap over the stove

Professionals know that you also need to consider the thickness of your backsplash tiles. For instance, you may need to opt for thinner marble tiles to avoid issues with your appliances or counter depth.

Using the Wrong Type of Tiles

It may surprise you to learn that not all tiles are fit for kitchen use. The best tiles for a kitchen backsplash are ones that are easy to clean and durable; otherwise, you could end up with a dingy, broken backsplash not long after installing it. 

Professionals know that glass, ceramic, porcelain, and stone make the best kitchen backsplash materials. Each of these offers different benefits and durability levels, so it’s important to carefully explore your options. 

Another common mistake homeowners make here is buying the wrong number of tiles. If you don’t purchase enough, you’ll end up making multiple trips to the local hardware store, lengthening your project time. Meanwhile, if you buy too much, you’ll end up spending more money on unnecessary materials.

Hiring a professional means you don’t have to calculate the number of tiles you need. Kitchen remodeling experts bring all their own materials, so they’ll only use what they need for your project, which can save you quite a bit of hassle, time, and money.

Not Knowing the Science Behind Tiles

Homeowners installing a do-it-yourself kitchen backsplash tend to only think about the color and pattern of their tiles, but considering tile designs is just one part of the process. Ignoring tile science can leave you with subpar results and a backsplash that doesn’t last as long as you would like it to. 

When it comes to tile science, the main thing to remember is that tiles expand with heat and contract with cooler temperatures. These microscopic movements don’t seem like a big deal until your tiles crack and warp due to improper installation. 

Kitchen remodeling professionals know that grout application and tile placement are crucial. They know how much space each type of tile needs and how to properly use expansion joints for a successful installation. 

Rely on Our Professionals for Your Kitchen Backsplash Project

Creating a do-it-yourself kitchen backsplash using peel-and-stick tiles or other methods may seem like an easy way to upgrade your kitchen, but unprofessional installations can result in damaged tiles, amateurish patterns, and overall subpar results. 

If you want the best results possible without the hassle, rely on our experts at Payless Kitchen Cabinets. We can help you embrace the many benefits of using tiles for your kitchen backsplash and enjoy a smooth, stress-free installation process. 

Call (866) 482-0919 to schedule a consultation with our kitchen remodeling experts! Get the help you need today.

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