Help! Cost of replacing tile backsplash

13 years ago

I just finished a mini kitchen makeover (painted cabinets, installed new granite countertops, new sink, etc. - I've tried posting pics, but am technologically challenged and can't figure it out!!) Anyway, when we first moved in, DH wouldn't allow me to do much to the kitchen, so I installed a mosaic backsplash myself to help spruce it up. The problem is, although I tried to choose granite that would complement the existing backsplash, now that it's in, I HATE my backsplash. There's just too much going on!! I am dreaming of something clean and simple. This is an ongoing fight between DH and I, but I want it done right!! He now says that if I can keep the cost low, he'll consider doing it. I'd have to replace the drywall. What do you think?

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Comments (5)

babushka_cat
13 years ago
i would get it done, sounds like it is bothering you. simple tile backsplash should not cost a lot in terms of materials, depends on the tile you choose. measure the square feet and cost out the ones you like. for example my kitchen would need 30 SF. high end tile would cost in the range of $600-800, lower end $200-300.

good luck!
ellendi
13 years ago
I put in a new backsplash in my new kitcen, only to see it was a mistake. My DH agreed. The tileman removed it and when it was time to replace it, they did not re sheet rock, but used thinset. Prices vary from person to person and place to place. I am not sure if anyone can give you an answer to cost. But, ask around to get the best job for the best price. Once you have that in place, I guess you could start saving up by budgeting in other areas for it since your husband seems to be the"money manager" in your household.
The backsplash strikes a chord with almost everyone. Just read through this blog! When it isn't right, your eye goes right to it,and it makes you miserable if you don't like it.
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lisa9774, Let me agree 110% with CircusPeanut I just finished doing this very same thing. Not for the reasons you want to do it but I decided if we are replacing 22+ feet of drywall on one side of a galley kitchen, I might as well repair the other side too. I popped off a few tiles to get a look at what they were adhered to. Then using a manual drywall saw I cut my first area so I could see inside to check for wires/plumbing pipe, etc. I then scored the top (up against the wall cabs) and then the bottom (against the counter top) with a brand new blade in a heavy-duty utility knife. I changed the blade often. Once those areas were scored it was rather easy to get the drywall saw in there and cut the drywall that didn't seperate with the utility knife scoring it. Replacing the drywall was easier than removing the old stuff, honest! Measure the area. I cut my drywall on the kitchen floor cement foundation, using a utility knife and a straight edge to score it really well. It should snap right at the score line and then you can cut through the last layer, the paper backing. Once you put the drywall up for size, double-measure for any outlets, openings, etc. Put the drywall back down and cut out those areas. Put in your drywall screws making sure to counter-sink them a bit so they don't poke out over the drywall mud. CircusPeanut was right on! I am pushing 60, heavy, with a couple disabiities that make it a bit difficult to stand or bend for too long and yet, I got that drywall up myself. You Can DO this and save the $$$ for something else!
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live_wire_oak
13 years ago
$20-$30 a square foot for labor is the current going rate in my low cost labor area for a backsplash. (If you're having a floor done, the setters usually give you a break on the combination.) Do it yourself. Save yourself several hundred dollars of labor, especially if all you want is something simple. Labor is usually the biggest component in a tile backsplash because it's a small job that's a PIA with all of the bending over and cutting that can occur. It's not that hard (with a back brace and a tile saw) if all you're going for is a simple look. If you have to rip out the drywall because the current tile is too well attached, then it's easier to just go back with cement backerboard than new drywall. Then you can tile right on top of that easy peasy. Or the tile may just pop right off. You never know until you give it a go! Get yourself a flat bladed scraper and start removing the tile now. At least you'll have the project started and won't have to pay for the demo!
lisa9774
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks so much for your input. I love this site and have learned so much from viewing all of your beautiful kitchens! You're right, the backsplash in its current state is making me miserable. I know that I can do the retiling by myself, especially since I'm leaning towards subway. I'm mostly concerned with tearing out the current tile and replacing with backerboard. I'd probably need to hire this part out. How difficult is this process and how expensive? BTW...I kind of made my DH sound like a dictator...he just doesn't get the whole "my backsplash doesn't work for me anymore" concept and I'm a stay-at-home mom with 4 kids, so we are on a pretty strict budget. Thanks so much!! You are wonderful!!
mendi_awtry_yahoo_com
12 years ago
Hi. I have the same situation. We moved to a home and the kitchen was newly renovated. Mosaic back-splash with colors I hate. I thought of covering it with beaded board, but not sure how long we will live here... I could attach it with Velcro I guess, or just paint the tile. Our estimate to replace was $500 just for the labor!!

Help! Cost of replacing tile backsplash

Comments (5)

babushka_cat

ellendi

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Help! Cost of replacing tile backsplash

Comments (5)

babushka_cat

ellendi

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lisa9774Original Author

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