Ceiling Tiles as a Backsplash

Rip + Renew : Episode HRIPR-106 -- More Projects »
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Metallic ceiling tiles make a charming yet contemporary backsplash.
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Recipe for a Great Kitchen Before: Before the remodeling, the kitchen was at best ordinary — and at worst, non-functional and boring.
Here's an easy way to give your kitchen some sparkle and drama: Install shiny metal ceiling tiles as a backsplash. Available in a wide variety of finishes, they provide a touch of old-fashioned charm.

Materials and Tools:

Armstrong ceiling tile
DAP Adhesive
Armstrong cone head ceiling tile nails
clear kitchen and bath silicone caulk
measuring tape
gloves
tin snips or tin scissors
1/2-inch drill bit
drill

Because this is a wet area, we do not want to be any punctures in the material. Therefore the application for the backsplash is slightly different from application on a ceiling.

1. Measure out the backsplash area. Make sure you are not going to be left with any small pieces at the ends. Account for any switches along the wall panel and cut corresponding holes (if necessary) into the tiles. To cut out the holes for the switches, you will need to drill holes into the corners of your markings for them. You will use this as a starting point for your snips or scissors. Make sure your drill stays inside your marks so you don't ruin your panel.

2. Dry fit all your panels before you begin affixing them to the wall.

3. Peel off the protective layer of the tiles.

4. Start at the inside corner and work your way out so that the edges will seem to disappear as you look at the backsplash.

5. Spread the adhesive liberally on the back of each tile as you work, making sure to stay approximately 1 inch from the edges so the adhesive doesn't spill over during application.

6. To adhere the tile into place, angle it so that the bottom portion remains in place behind the countertop (to avoid damaging the countertop). Then push the backsplash into the wall.

7. To create a tighter bond, gently peel the top portion of the backsplash from the wall. The contacted piece will attract air between the two layers, so by pulling it off and then sliding it into place, it won't lose contact with the wall. The key is to line up the lapping edge in the right spot.

8. Add a bead of clear silicone kitchen and bath caulk where the tiles and countertop meet to stop any moisture from getting behind the wall and cabinet.

Product Information:

stainless-steel sink (item 501-304) — Blanco
ceramic tile — Dal Tile
ceiling tile (item # BP5422209NA) — Armstrong
cabinets — Aristokraft
custom wine rack — Wilson Forge

Also in this Episode
Rip + Renew : Episode HRIPR-106
•Ceiling Tiles as a Backsplash
•Build a Kitchen Island