Slate and Stainless tile backsplash

18 years ago

Hello,

I'm installing a 4" high tile backsplash using 2x2 black slate and stainless steel tiles. (The tiles I've purchased are pre-glued to a mesh that keeps them evenly spaced. Spacing is about 1/8").

I've done a dry run just to get an idea of how it will look and I'm quite pleased. I am a little concerned as I haven't seen this combination before. Natural stone and stainless will it work?

I have several questions:

1. Do I need some sort of backerboard? Or can I adhere them right to the paint/drywall?

2. What is the best material to attach these things to the wall? Is it different for slate and stainless?

3. What type of grout should I use? Will I scratch the stainless tiles if I use the wrong grout?

4. I've read somewhere that I should use a specific type of caulking between the counter and the tile. I can't find that info anymore? Any ideas?

5. What about the top edge of the backspash? How do I make that look finished? Caulking? Grout? Trim?

Sorry for all the questions. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Sam

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Comments (7)

ksfaustin
18 years ago
Hi Sam,

I'm afraid I can't answer your questions, but I have seen stainless and slate done before - and it looks fabulous. See the link below.

Hopefully one of the many tile gurus on this site will help with the specifics.

Here is a link that might be useful: Uxorial's Kitchen
sunsetsammy
Original Author
18 years ago
Thank you for the link. Some very creative kitchens! Love the pictures.
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kristenfl
18 years ago
Do you have a link for the tiles that you're using? I would love to see it!
sunsetsammy
Original Author
18 years ago
Anyone???
ksfaustin
18 years ago
Hi Sunsetsammy, you might have better luck if you reposted your questions and titled it something really obvious like "DIY Backsplash Questions".
jeffrow
18 years ago
I'm doing my backsplash currently.... using 3x6 white subways and randomly placed 3x6 stainless tiles. I made the tiles from 1/8 inch thick 3" wide stainless bar stock. Bought it at the local metal supply and had them cut the pieces. Total cost $80 or so for 24 tiles. Looks good so far. I'm finishing a complete gut diy... hoping to finish this week.
needanap
18 years ago
I used all slate tiles, but the frame is pewter (looks like stainless), and I think the combination of natural and manmade materials looks pretty sharp. Please post pics when finished.