How to Install a Backsplash and Side Splash

How to Install a Backsplash and Side Splash

A backsplash is not a mandatory feature and is not installed upon delivery. This allows you to have the flexibility of either tiling directly onto the countertop or to a painted wall, providing you with various choices.

Below are the steps to guide you through the installation process if you decide to install a backsplash.

Required Tools

  1. Level
  2. Rags
  3. Caulking Finishing Tool
  4. Silicone / Sealant
  5. Measuring Tape

Backsplash Installation

Step 1

Position the backsplash on the countertop and validate that it fits correctly. The backsplash should be centered on the countertop and be flush with the wall and countertop surface along its entire length.


Step 2

Place the backsplash on a soft surface to protect it from scratches, then apply silicone sealant on the back side in a zigzag pattern as well as on the bottom side.

Step 3

Thoroughly clean the countertop surface using dry rags, eliminating any debris or dust particles.


Step 4

Position the backsplash into place and lightly press it down and against the wall. While pushing down, some silicone may seep out from the bottom and sides of the backsplash.


Step 5

Fill any of the remaining gaps between the backsplash and the wall with silicone.


Step 6

Remove any excess silicone using a caulking finishing tool or your finger



Allow a full 24 hours for the silicone to thoroughly dry, ensuring a secure and durable installation.

Side Splash Installation

While our vanities come with a backsplash, it's important to note that side splashes are not included in the standard purchase. If you find the need for a side splash, you can acquire one by reaching out to our team at 1.866.839.2888.

Step 1

Position the side splash on the countertop and validate that it fits correctly. The sidesplash should be flushed with the countertop surface in front.


If sidesplash is longer than countertop depth, the sidesplash can be trimmed to size to be flush with the countertop.

 

If sidesplash is shorter than countertop top, the sidesplash can be offset from the back- splash to be flush with the edge of the counter- top.The resulting gap between the backsplash and sidesplash can be filled with silicone. 

Step 2

Place the sidesplash on a soft surface to protect it from scratches, then apply silicone sealant on the back side in a zigzag pattern as well as on the bottom side.


Step 3

Thoroughly clean the countertop surface using dry rags, eliminating any debris or dust particles.


Step 4

Position the side splash into place and lightly press it down and against the wall. While pushing down, some silicone may seep out from the bottom and sides of the sidesplash.


Step 5

Fill any remaining gaps between the sidesplash and the wall with silicone.


Step 6

Remove any excess silicone using a caulking finishing tool or your finger.



Allow a full 24 hours for the silicone to thoroughly dry, ensuring a secure and durable installation.

Care and Maintenance

  1. For daily maintenance, use a wet cloth and a soft liquid cleaner and wipe dry.
  2. Never use abrasive cleaners or strong bleach, scrapers, metallic brushes, or other objects or any products which can graze or tarnish surfaces.
  3. Stone backsplash (Granite, Marble, etc.) are surprisingly resilient to stains and scratches. However, as a preventative measure, any spills on the stone surfaces should be wiped up within a reasonable amount of time. Don’t let the liquid sit on the stone overnight. Stones are most prone to staining by oil and acid, so be sure to blot these spills up as soon as they happen. Follow up by cleaning the stone with mild non- abrasive soap and water.
  4. In bathrooms specifically, stone tends to attract soap scum, just like man-made tile. Rinse the vanity top with clean, hot water frequently. The use of sealers is also a powerful preventative measure. Your stone was sealed at the factory, but reapplication is necessary over time. How often is determined by the quality of the sealer used, and the frequency of use. We recommend using a penetrating non-toxic sealer for bath areas, but a food-safe sealer is typically not necessary.
  5. If stains and scratches do occur, there are many things you can do as a consumer to remove them. Remove oil-based stains with acetone, mineral spirits, or ammonia. Organic stains like coffee, tea, or juice can be removed with hydrogen peroxide, and mixed with a few drops of ammonia.
  6. Remember the following list of DOs and DON’Ts:
  7. DO use preventative cleaning measures to keep your stone pristine.
  8. DO use sealers, applied according to the product-specific directions.
  9. DO blot spills quickly, and wash with mild soap and warm water.
  10. DON’T use harsh bathroom cleaners or grout cleaners on any natural stone.
  11. DON’T worry if you get a significant stain or scratch that your stone investment is ruined. Virtually anything can be fixed with professional help.