Installing a kitchen backsplash is a great way to add your own personal touch to the overall kitchen design. Backsplash tile can be made from almost any type of material and there is a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes to choose from. Installing backsplash tile is a quick and easy DIY project, but before heading out to buy the tiles, you will need to measure the area where you will be installing them. Measuring for the backsplash tile may seem overwhelming, but it’s much easier than you think. All you will need is a few simple tools and the following directions.
What You’ll Need
The first step to ensuring you have the right measurements is to make sure you have the right tools, which include:
- A pencil/pen
- Paper
- A measuring tape
- A calculator
Measure in Sections
Measure each section at least twice and write down the measurements as you take them. The easiest way to measure the areas where you will be installing the tile is to work in sections. For example, separately measure the area behind the sink and range. Each area along the counters should also be measured separately, and if the space has one or more electrical outlets, measure each space between the outlets separately. If the areas are rectangular or square in shape, you will simply need to write down the length and width in inches.
If there are “unusual” shaped areas where you will be installing backsplash tile, it may be easier to sketch a replica of the area on graph paper. For example, if there is an oval or round shaped window in the space, sketch the window, measure the area around the window and write the measurements for each section next to the appropriate area on the sketch. If you aren’t sure how to work around odd shapes, take the graph with you to Mees Distributors, Inc. and someone will be able to assist you.
Calculating the Measurements
Now it’s time to grab the calculator. Tile is sold by the square footage, so you will need to change the measurements you have taken from total inches to square footage.
If the space is rectangular or square in shape, simply multiply the length by the width in inches. For example, if the area along the counter is 72 inches in length and 24 inches wide (height), you would multiply 72 by 24, which equals 1,728 square inches. Divide the total square inches (1,728) by 144 to get the square footage of the space. In this example, 1,728 divided by 144 equals 12 square feet.
Find the square footage for each section you have measured, then add the square footage for each section together for the total amount of tile that you will need. For example, if the counter area is 12 square feet, the area behind the range is 3 square feet and the area above the sink is 2 square feet, you would need 17 total square feet of tile.
Remember to take your measurements and graphs with you when shopping for the tile. It is also important to buy extra tile (usually about 10 percent more than you need) to allow for cutting and any mistakes.
Visit the showroom at Mees Distributors, Inc. for a wide selection of backsplash tile and expert assistance. We want you to feel confident not only of your measurements but also your finished product!