Tile a splashback
Save £150–300 in half a day — no decorator needed
Most people hire a decorator for this. You probably don't need to.
This is one of the key steps in a full bathroom renovation.
Last updated: March 2025
Only basic tools needed — most homes already have them.
Before you start
A splashback is an excellent first tiling project — the area is small, most tiles do not need cutting, and any mistakes are not structural.
Turn off the power to any sockets in the splashback area at the consumer unit before you start. Water and adhesive near live sockets is dangerous.
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Tools & materials
- ✓Tape measure and pencil— for marking out
- ✓Spirit level— to keep rows straight
- ✓Notched adhesive spreader— usually included with tile adhesive
- ✓Grout spreader or old credit card— to apply grout
- ✓Sponge and bucket— for cleaning off excess grout
- !Tiles— buy — allow 10% extra for cuts and breakages
- !Tile adhesive— buy — use a waterproof type for kitchen and bathroom
- !Grout— buy — choose a colour to complement your tiles
- !Tile spacers— buy — 2mm or 3mm for standard joints
- !Tile cutter or score-and-snap tool— buy — 20 if you need to cut tiles
Want everything in one go?
Prices shown on retailer sites. Always check current pricing before purchasing.
Plan your layout
Hold tiles against the wall dry to work out your layout. Start from the centre of the area and work outward so any cut tiles are equal on both sides. Mark a level horizontal line as your starting point.
Most people get this done in under 5 minutes.
Quick guides for this phase
How to drill into tiles without cracking them — for accessories fitted after tiling →Where beginners go wrong
Not turning off the power to sockets in the splash area — this is a safety essential.
Spreading adhesive too far ahead — it skins over and loses grip. Work in small sections.
Grouting before the adhesive has fully cured — tiles can shift, ruining the joint lines.
Stop and call a tiler if...
Tiles are going behind an electric hob or cooker — the installation area needs to be confirmed safe first
The wall is damp or the plaster is crumbling — fix the underlying problem before tiling
You need to cut around a socket or switch — consider having an electrician remove the socket faceplate before you tile
Cost breakdown
Recommended starter kit
Five tools that cover most home repairs.
- →Adjustable spannerAmazon·Screwfix
- →Screwdriver setAmazon·Screwfix
- →PTFE tapeAmazon·Screwfix
- →Spirit levelAmazon·Screwfix
- →Tape measureAmazon·Screwfix
Want everything in one go? Get it on Amazon
What you just learned
You now know how to plan a tile layout, apply adhesive correctly, and grout neatly. These skills transfer to tiling a bathroom floor, wall, or shower enclosure.
This unlocks:
Continue your renovation
Most people would pay a tradesperson for this.
⚠️ Watch out if you rent
Always get your landlord's written permission before tiling in a rented property. Tiling is a permanent change and removing tiles without permission will almost certainly cost you your deposit.