Install a tile backsplash

The good looks and durable surface of tile make it an ideal addition to the wall behind a kitchen counter. Ceramic tile does a stylish job of protecting the wall and its hard surface makes it easy to clean and maintain the space between wall-hung cabinets and the countertop, which is prone to splashes of food or sauce during food preparation. You’ll find a dizzying array of tile colors, sizes and designs to make the backsplash a colorful focal point or stylish compliment to the room.

A tile contractor will charge $383, which includes the material and labor, to install a 10-foot-long, 2-foot-high ceramic tile backsplash. You can buy the materials, do it yourself for $185 and save 52 percent.

While you’ll see plenty of tiles at home centers, you’ll find a larger and more diverse selection at a tile retailer, where you can rent or borrow some of the installation tools you’ll need, including a tile cutter and nippers, a rubber float and a trowel.

To help you visualize the effect in the room, buy sample tiles or use colored paper cut to the size of tile you plan to use. But first work on paper or with a design tool to create the pattern using a measured drawing of the area to be tiled.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Pro Cost -- DIY Cost -- Pro time -- DIY Time -- DIY Savings -- Percent Saved

$383 -- $185 -- 4.6 -- 8.5 -- $198 -- 52 Percent

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