Backsplash installation costs vary by tile type, design, kitchen layout, and contractor. Find out how much your dream backsplash will cost you.
Can You Put a Backsplash Directly on Drywall?
Add some zest to your kitchen with a new backsplash
Get quotes from ceramic tile pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from ceramic tile pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Need Help With a Project? Connect With a Pro
Installing wall tile on sheetrock works well in kitchens because backsplash areas face less moisture than bathrooms, letting you skip backer boards for simpler installation.
Expect to pay $1,000 on average for professional backsplash installation, and choosing moisture-resistant green-board drywall adds extra protection against grease and occasional splashes.
Before you apply your backsplash, clean the drywall with a degreaser, fill any divots with spackling compound, sand smooth, and wipe away dust for proper adhesion.
Hiring a local backsplash installation professional keeps tile layout even and grout lines clean, especially when working with ledger boards and checking alignment throughout the project.
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
A backsplash adds a layer of pizzazz and protection to the wall above your kitchen counter, sink, and stove. If you're thinking of adding a new backsplash, you may wonder: Can you put backsplash on drywall? The short answer is yes, you can. But there are a few important things you need to know about installing a new backsplash on your kitchen drywall.
Why It's Safe to Put a Backsplash on Drywall
Installing a backsplash on your kitchen's drywall is safe and effective because it's not a highly moist surface, such as a bathroom wall that gets a lot of steam. As long as the drywall is clean and smooth, you shouldn't have any trouble installing a backsplash over the top of it.
It’s also relatively simple. In most cases, you don't need to tear out existing drywall to install a backer board for this project since the area doesn’t get foot traffic like a tile floor.
Choose the Right Type of Drywall
Drywall comes in a range of types, including standard drywall, which is appropriate for use around the home, and moisture-resistant green-board drywall, which is a good pick for rooms like the kitchen and bathroom.
Green-board drywall has a paperless backing and an additional coating that blocks moisture and reduces mold growth. While you may not need to tear out your existing drywall and replace it with a moisture-resistant option, it's something to consider if you're starting from scratch or completely remodeling your kitchen.
How to Prep the Drywall
Whether it's a tile or quartz backsplash, or even a peel-and-stick option, wall prep before installation is a must. Kitchens get dirty quickly, especially if you cook frequently. Grease can build up on the wall, interfering with the adhesion of the backsplash.
Use a degreaser to clean the drywall above the counter, making sure to thoroughly remove any stains. Once you've cleaned the wall, fill in any divots with a spackling compound. When that's dry, sand the wall to get a smooth surface.
Finally, wipe the wall with a damp rag to remove the sanding dust, then let dry.
How to Install a Backsplash on Drywall
Photo: Valeriy_G / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
How you install a backsplash depends largely on the materials you're using. To install a tile backsplash, you'll first want to attach a ledger board to the wall.
The ledger board will support the tile's weight as the adhesive dries.
Before placing the tile on the wall, plan its layout. You can spread the tile out on the floor or another flat surface and arrange it in the pattern you want.
When you start applying the tile to the wall, work in small sections, starting from the center. Apply the adhesive to the wall, then press the first tile against it. Install the remaining tile, working slowly and checking your work as you go to ensure everything is even.
Once the tiles are on the wall, it's time to apply and seal the grout.
If you're not confident in your DIY skills, consider hiring a local professional backsplash installer to do the job for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ceramic tile services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.6★ avg. • 42 total reviews
- Sue B.
Terrible experience. Walls/trim/floors/cabinets/doors all have drip marks, overspray, etc. Tiling at the fireplace had to be redone by another vendor due to incorrect and shoddy install by Profect. Contractor had his children in our house while he was on site without prior authorization or...
Profect painting & exteriors - Manoj K.
It was wonderful working with Yordy and his team. They were very professional and are experts in what they do. They have completed the work on time, with better quality and with in fairly reasonable price. We just started with backsplash work , but liking his work, we went on to provide...
Flooring Solutions - Bob T.
We were having 2”x 2” tile installed . There was a small installation error and the new additional replacement tile was from a different lot and the colors didn’t match. Joe assured us that he would rectify everything , which he did without hesitation. We decided to go with the 18” x 36” tile...
CarifaTile - Stephanie S.
For several months I was looking for somebody to tile a wall in my master bath and move lighting fixtures, and could not find anybody who was responsive. I contacted Rowe through Home Advisor and within days they came by to assess the job and provide an estimate. The cost was very...
Rowe House Development - Timothy C.
It went very well! The end product was amazing and we keep getting a lot of compliments from friends! M&E were very professional and they made sure we were happy with the product before leaving. They met with us in our home and at the tile shop to make sure we were okay with our tile and...
M&E Remodeling - Kendrick V.
Involved an extensive bathroom remodel, including removing tub & installing walk in shower, new drywall, custome tile work to ceiling, plumbing, etc. Overall, job was done on time and on budget. Nick & his team were very professional and had high attention to detail. Quality was great. Highly...
Stamos Flooring and Remodeling LLC - Locke M.
Very pleased with the service and level of professionalism. Courteous and very unobtrusive in performing service. Unlike several other companies, Bradford Xteriors was willing to perform work on a three story home with a clay tile roof. <br />
Bradford Xteriors - Jeffrey B.
This company did a very good job on the brick wall and it looks just amazing. The staff was always professional and was practically OCD on how the bricks were stacked and how they were laid. Although it took longer than expected, I am willing to sacrifice time over perfection anyday. The...
My Handy Mate LLC Improvement & Remodeling - Gary D.
He did the tile work and he was good at it. He used other subcontractors for the rest of the work (like putting in the cabinetry) and they were okay but not great. He was a great guy! He was easy to work with and had a good eye for the detail of his work. There were a couple of things that I...
Brian Miller Custom Remodeling - Michael S.
I was very impressed with Miller Cantrell! I live in an old home in which the sewage line that runs from my home to the sewage system is a line of clay tile. These eventually collapse and need to be replaced - an expensive problem and sure to happen at the worst time. I told them that my...
The homeowners guide to ceramic tile services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Marble backsplashes are beautiful and costly additions to your kitchen. Our guide lays out marble options and the labor required to install it.
Drywall texture can create an attractive finish and add dimension to your home’s walls. This guide breaks down the factors that influence the cost to texture drywall.
Do you need a backsplash? Technically, no. However, installing one in your kitchen can add beauty and help avoid costly repairs. Here's how and why.
Looking to design a beautiful backsplash for your kitchen on a budget? This article gives a dozen examples of affordable, attractive materials to consider. Find inspiration and get educated about ways to spruce up your kitchen without breaking the bank.
Can you put drywall over drywall to cover old, damaged or cracked plaster walls? Read our guide to determine if this is the right solution for your walls.