Where Do You Start And Stop With Backsplash Tiles?

If you’re struggling to figure out where to start and stop the backsplash tiles, here’s everything you need to know!

Depending on the design of your kitchen or bathroom, the layout, the size of tiles, and your personal preferences, the start and stop points of the backsplash tile will vary. After careful research and experience, I’ve been able to draw up a list of guidelines to help anyone figure out where to start and stop with backsplash tiles.

Before we even get started, it is important to gather the measurements of the wall. Start from corner to corner and make a note of the width and height.

Thereafter, measure the diameter of the sink as well as the height from the sink to the cabinet or ceiling. If you have a counter, measure the width and height of the wall space behind that counter.

Once you have all your measurements, you can decide how many backsplash tiles you need for the wall.

The goal of a backsplash is to protect the integrity of the wall behind a sink or countertop. Excessive exposure to moisture and heat can cause cracking, peeling, discoloration, and mold to develop.

This is why most homeowners opt to install backsplash tiles behind sinks, stoves, and countertops.

During cooking and cleaning, these areas are the most susceptible to moisture and heat exposure.

Starting Points

From the edge of the countertop

For a seamless and smooth transition between the end of the countertop and the backsplash, start the backsplash tiles from the edge of the countertop.

You can seal the edge with caulk or epoxy so that no gaps are visible.

Alternatively, you can use an appropriately colored grout.

From the center of the wall

In the event that you have a specific design idea in mind that needs to be centralized or you only want to install the backsplash tile behind the sink, you could start the tile installation from the center and work your way out.

This tends to be the case when a decorative pattern or style is the focal point.

From the bottom of the wall

Oftentimes, there are cabinets that are installed on kitchen walls.

This alters the dimensions of the free space on the wall, requiring you to cut and alter the size of the tiles either at the top or bottom of the wall.

It just makes visual sense to start the full tiles at the bottom of the wall, where the cabinets or sink begin, working their way up until you need to install a row of shaped tiles. Doing this ensures that the full tiles are more visible to the naked eye.

Stopping Points

Top Edge

In my opinion, the best point to stop backsplash tiles is near the top, below shelves, cabinets, or fixtures.

This enhances a sleek, sophisticated, and seamless look in your bathroom and kitchen. Very rarely is a backsplash ever installed all the way up to the ceiling. The top row of tiles that end at the edge of the cabinets, shelves, or fixtures is less visible at certain angles.

For that reason, it’s often recommended to end the backsplash tiles at that point since you may have to cut and resize those tiles to fit.

Below The Cabinet

In the event that your cabinets do not stretch up towards the ceiling, it may appear odd if the backsplash tiles are installed at the edge of the cabinet.

To remedy this, you could leave an equal space between the top and bottom of the floating cabinets for a uniform appearance. Measure the distance between the top of the cabinet and the edge of the ceiling.

Use that measurement to leave an equal space below the cabinet to stop the backsplash tile.

Custom Endpoint

You don’t have to start or stop your backsplash tiles according to industry standards.

Guidelines are not hard rules; they’re just in place to produce the best possible result. But if you have a unique and custom idea for a pattern or border that enhances your kitchen or bathroom wall, do it.

End the backsplash according to your custom design, but be sure to align everything correctly.

Backsplash Installation Tips

To save costs and to purchase the correct amount of backsplash tiles, it’s always recommended to measure the area that will be tiled.
Clean the wall before installing the backsplash tiles.
Factor in plug points or switches. Either tile around them or cut tiles in a manner that allows you to fit the plug points through them.
You should remove dry walls from sections with significant exposure to moisture and install backerboards.
Always account for cuts, corners, and mistakes when factoring in the cost of tiles. Having additional tiles always comes in handy.
Use tile spacers and a level to achieve straight lines and even spaces.
Get your hands on a wet saw or tile cutter to make accurate and precise cuts to tiles that need to be used for the corners or edges.
Choose a color backsplash that complements the overall aesthetic of your kitchen or bathroom.
Dark colors are bold and eye-catching, while light colors are bright and highly compatible with most wall and furniture colors.
Use an adhesive that is designed for backsplash tiles for maximum hold.
If your backsplash is made of stone, it is recommended to seal it with a protectant before grouting.
Grout between the tiles to complete the backsplash tiles. Then, apply a sealant to the grout for protection from stains and discoloration caused by moisture and heat.

Final Thoughts

The start and stop points for backsplash tiles will always vary depending on the size of the wall, your preferences, the furniture, and the tile size.

Careful planning and consideration for these factors will ensure that your backsplash looks elegant and professional.

I would advise you to consult with a tiler or interior decorating expert to select the best style and pattern of backsplash for your kitchen or bathroom.

But if you follow the advice in this article and plan correctly, I’m sure that you’ll be capable of installing a backsplash by yourself.

With that being said, I hope you found this article on where to start and stop backsplash tiles to be helpful and informative. Be sure to check out some of our other articles on backsplash ideas that are linked below.

Can you use floor tiles for kitchen countertops or backsplashes?

Should backsplash go on side walls?