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How to tile an outdoor splashback

An image of an outdoor splashback.

Overview

Tiling your outdoor splashback makes cleaning a breeze and it also elevates the look and feel of your entire outdoor entertaining space. There are a wide variety of options to choose from, allowing you to showcase your personal style or to pair it with your indoor décor.

Follow this D.I.Y., step-by-step guide to tile an outdoor splashback in your alfresco kitchen.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Choose a fire-resistant base

    While planning your outdoor kitchen, consider the base you will be tiling over. Ensure it is made from a fire-resistant material, such as concrete, gypsum or stucco.

    A woman touching the wall.
  2. 2

    Apply a primer

    Begin by applying a primer to your base surface using a brush. Priming will ensure the tile adhesive will bond securely to your base. Allow to dry.

    A person painting the wall using a paint brush.
  3. 3

    Work out the tile design

    Work out your tile design on a flat surface. Play with patterns and features. This will give you a blueprint for what materials you’ll need and whether you’ll need to cut any tiles to size.

    A person lifting an outdoor tile.
  4. 4

    Determining the number of tiles

    To determine the number of tiles you’ll need, start by measuring the length and width of your splashback (length x width = square meterage of the splashback) and a single tile (length x width = square meterage of a tile).

    Divide the area you’re tiling by the square meterage of the single tile. This will give you the number of tiles you’ll need.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Breakages and accidents happen, so we recommend purchasing 10 percent more tiles than you think you’ll need to account for this.
    A bunnings team member with a tape measure.
  5. 5

    Cut the tiles to size

    To cut the tiles to size, use a level and a pencil to mark out a guideline for where you need to cut on each tile. Using a tile cutter, carefully create a score on the line you’ve marked, before pushing down a little harder to make a clean cut.

    Cutting the tile to the size.
  6. 6

    Lay the tile adhesive and tiles

    Apply the tile adhesive approximately 1-3mm thick using a notch trowel. Work in small areas, starting from the bottom of your splashback area. For even spacing and a clean finish, insert a cross spacer between each tile. Allow it to dry for a minimum of 24 hours. Once dried, remove all cross spacers.

    Applying tile adhesive to the wall.
  7. 7

    Grout the tiles

    Prepare the grout in a plastic bucket, following the instructions on the packaging. To apply the grout, use a grout float and push the product in at an angle to ensure there aren't any air bubbles. Use a sponge to clean off any excess grout and allow the grout to dry overnight.

    Applying grout using a grout float.
  8. 8

    Add trimming

    Cut trimming to the length of your splashback. Apply glue to the edge of your splashback and add the trimming. Allow to dry.

    A person touching the tile trim.
  9. 9

    Looking for more tips?

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.