Easy Kitchen Island Tile Backsplash

Shannon Ingle, of Coffee Paint Repeat, is always looking for renter-friendly ways to update her home. Check out how Shannon created a beautiful kitchen island tile backsplash in no time!

Easy Kitchen Island Tile Backsplash

I’m so excited to be back sharing another DIY project with you on The Home Depot Blog! I am always on the lookout for ways to make my rental feel more like the home of my dreams and I found another great product to help me do just that. In this post, I will be using the Smart Tiles backsplash to take our kitchen island from bland to beautiful, with an easy kitchen island tile backsplash without even breaking a sweat! This tutorial is for all you fellow renters, those of you who have a fear of commitment when it comes to décor, or just plain love quick projects that don’t make a mess!

---

Materials

• Smart Tile backsplash – I used the Milano Sasso design
• Level
• Sharp utility knife
• Tape measure
• Ruler or carpenter square

---

Before the Update

Our townhouse has a pretty neutral color palette. Beige walls and dark cabinets, the usual cookie cutter rental. The island wall was a big, boring space that divided the kitchen and living room. It collected food bits and footprints thanks to my eleven-year-old. I was beyond excited to finally cover it and add a little color at the same time, with a kitchen island tile backsplash.

I choose the Smart Tile Backsplash in Milano Sasso because the colors complimented what was already there. This design has a hint of metallic shimmer that gives it a more modern look, which I love. The Smart Tiles arrived in a box, in pre-cut sheets with peel off backing. They make it super easy for you right from the start!

---

Step 1

The first thing you will want to do is measure the area and calculate the square footage you will need and make sure the wall is clean. That is probably the most difficult part of the project! The tile sheets are so easy to install without any mess or special tools. I am not even kidding when I tell you I finished this wall in a little over an hour. I would have been done sooner but being a blogger, I had to stop for photos of course!

---

Step 2

Before I hung my first tile I wanted to create a straight line to follow. I took a sheet with the backing still on and used it to mark a few lines along the wall. I then took my level and connected the dots. This way I knew my base line wouldn’t be off and send me on a crooked journey.

---

Step 3

I started on the left bottom corner. Because there are tabs of varying lengths on both sides of the tiles just use your ruler or straight edge to cut those off and make a clean edge on the left side of the tile.

---

Step 4

Peel the backing off the tile and apply it evenly with the start of the wall, the bottom edge and your line you created with the level. The first tile is the leader when it comes to applying them in a straight line so take your time getting this one in its place.

One of the most genius ideas is the overlapping tabs on the Smart Tiles. It creates the realistic look of continuous tile with full grout lines. Simply align the tabs on the second tile with the marked tabs on the first, I told you they made it easy! Repeat this step until you reach the end of your wall. Measure and cut your last piece in the row with the ruler and utility knife.

If you come across an outlet like I did, don’t worry. Place the tile over the outlet and very carefully cut the pieces away. Honestly you can even use scissors for this part if you like. The sheets are lightweight and very easy to cut.

---

Step 5

Continue lining the Smart Tile tabs up with each other and making sure the bottom of the tiles on the second row sit evenly on the top of the first row of tiles. Then move up to the third row and so on.

---

Step 6

Once I finished the third row I had to make some cuts for the underside of my counter. I measured the space and marked the back of the tiles before cutting to fit.

My kitchen island did have some wood brackets that I had to notch the tile to fit around. This sounds harder than it was. I placed a sheet at the bottom of the bracket and marked the tiles that needed to be cut away. You can either use the knife or the scissors for this like I did for the electrical outlet.

---

Final Reveal

Before I knew it, I had a custom kitchen tile island! I can’t believe how much the Smart Tile backsplash improved the look of this space! The added bonus is they are wipeable. Now when my son gets food and footprints on the tiles I can just clean them with a damp cloth. The Smart Tiles are actually protecting the wall! They will never yellow or crack over time and when you’re ready to take them down simply warm them with a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive and they peel right off. No damage to your wall or your security deposits!

As a renter, I know I may not live here long but I feel strongly that we should all love the home we have. You don’t have to live in boring box with four walls and no personality. That’s basically like being in prison and nobody wants that. Make a few small changes that really pack a design punch, like these Smart Tiles!

I hope you love this project as much as I do. I catch myself smiling every time I walk past that pretty little kitchen island tile. Be sure to check out at all the other designs they have available. There are so many colors and designs to choose from. Smart tiles are resistant to the heat of stove tops and humidity of bathrooms so start those projects! You could tile your whole bathroom in an afternoon! Create a kitchen backsplash in minutes! The possibilities are endless my friends!

Happy DIY-ing everyone!

Follow our Inspiring Tiles board on Pinterest for more tile inspiration. Find more tile ideas on The Home Depot Blog.

Find more easy-to-install, peel-and-stick Smart Tiles at The Home Depot.

The post Easy Kitchen Island Tile Backsplash appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

from Roofing Pro http://ift.tt/2k3Crtx

Curated by a professional Roofing Contractor

DIY Tile Fireplace Makeover

Joni Lay of Lay Baby Lay used these beautiful peel and stick tiles to give her tile fireplace a total transformation in just one hour. Read how this simple, refresh brightened up the whole living room!

DIY Tile Fireplace Makeover

I just finished updating my tile fireplace with Home Depot’s peel and stick Smart Tiles. The process was so simple and mess-free, and the end result is beautful. I’m excited to share the steps with you here so you can do the same in your home!

---

These peel and stick tiles have a high-end look, are heat and humidity resistant, and will stay in place as long as you want them. They are a great solution when you want to update old tile fireplaces without the expense and mess. All you need to get started are the tiles of your choice (I went with the Metro Grigio – that lovely gray!), some scissors and a sharp utility knife.

This is what I started with; many of these tiles were broken and cracked. Plus, I was really tired of the dark black. It made the whole room feel darker to me! To get started, I cleaned the tiles and wiped them down so they were dry and clean.

---

Next, I pulled out my tools and the tile, and I was ready to get to work!

---

I started in the top left corner. To begin, pull back the paper from the corner of the tile until it is about a third of the way pulled back, and stick the exposed adhesive to your surface. Then, pull back the rest of the backer. Smooth the tile down with your hand. My tile fireplace has a little space between the mantel and the tile, so I was able to stick part of it behind the mantel to start.

The peel and stick tiles have a little extra space on one side so you can overlap them slightly so there are no gaps. Super easy! Plus, they are very tacky and stick well to a surface, but you can peel them up and re-position as needed, so don’t be afraid of making a mistake.

---

My fireplace also has a rounded edge, so I just smoothed the peel and stick tiles over the rounded edge. They stick perfectly, so it’s a seamless looking replacement.

---

I ended up using the scissors more than the utility knife, but use what you are comfortable with! For the sides, I held up one of the peel and stick tile panels, marked where the edge of the old tile was and trimmed the tiles so they would fit perfectly. You could also lay the tile down first and then trim with a sharp utility knife if you prefer. They are really easy to trim!

---

The whole project took me about an hour, start to finish, which is pretty great considering how involved it would have been to remove and replace the old tile fireplace.

---

The new tiles look amazing, and it’s really hard to tell they are peel and stick! I honestly wouldn’t notice if I hadn’t been the one to do it. I love how the grey Metro Grigio color lightens up the room so much!

I’m so happy I was able to use these peel and stick tiles to transform my old tile fireplace! I have had such a hard time with this room because it felt like everything I did just didn’t really mesh well with the old black tile. Now it feels so much happier and inviting!

Thanks so much to The Home Depot for working with me on this, and helping me to brighten up our living room!

Follow our Inspiring Tiles board on Pinterest for more tile inspiration. Find more tile ideas on The Home Depot Blog.

Find more easy-to-install, peel-and-stick Smart Tiles at The Home Depot.

The post DIY Tile Fireplace Makeover appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

from Roofing Pro http://ift.tt/2wiQAEK

Curated by a professional Roofing Contractor

How To Update Bathroom Lighting

The key to good lighting is a good light fixture. Updating your fixtures is a quick and easy way to add style and functionality to any space.

How to Update Bathroom Lighting

Materials

•       New Light Fixture
•       Ladder
•       Adjustable Support Bracket (if needed)

---

Tools

•       Screwdriver (or Cordless Drill)
•       Wire Stripper
•       Pliers (if needed)
•       Circuit Tester (optional)

---

Step 1: Turn the Electricity Off

First, you’ll want to flip the kill switch for the fixture at the breaker box to ensure the wires are safe to touch. Remove any covers or canopies from the light.

---

Step 2: Remove the Old Fixture

With the electricity off, use a ladder (if needed) to remove the old light fixture by backing out the screws on the canopy cover with a screwdriver or drill. Gently pull cover away to reveal connected wiring. Untwist the plastic wire nuts to release the wires.

NOTE: If working with a large or heavy fixture this is a two-person job.

Confirm the electricity is off with a circuit tester. This tool is easy to use, adds an extra layer of safety and only costs a few bucks, so it’s money well spent.  Just touch it to the white and black wires to check that the electricity is indeed off.  If so, disconnect the grounding wire from the grounding nut. Then unscrew and remove the old mounting bar and remove the old fixture.

---

Step 3: Prep the New Fixture

Unbox the new fixture, unwrap everything and organize its pieces and parts. Once you’ve determined that the electrical box can safely support the weight of the new fixture, screw the threaded mounting stem into the new mounting bar, then adjust the chain and wiring to the desired height (pliers may be helpful).

NOTE: Any fixture weighing more than 50 lbs. will require extra support. This means the electrical box must either be firmly secured to a ceiling joist or wood bracing, or you will need to install an adjustable support bracket (commonly used with ceiling fans).

---

Step 4: Connect the Wires

To connect the wiring, run it through the mounting stem and canopy. Use wire strippers to expose a 3/4-inch section of wire. Then, connect white to white and black to black with the wire nuts supplied. Next, connect the copper grounding wire to the grounding nut. Tuck the connected wires up into the electrical box and secure the new canopy plate in place.

NOTE: Always reference your fixture’s specific installation instructions.

---

Step 5: Add Bulbs!

Add bulbs, turn on electricity…  and enjoy.

The post How To Update Bathroom Lighting appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

from Roofing Pro http://ift.tt/2xB9E4e

Curated by a professional Roofing Contractor

How To Hang Large Artwork

Hanging large artwork or photography in a space can add lots of personality and visual impact.  With the right hardware, it’s easier than you think.

How To Hang Large Artwork

Materials

• OOK Professional Picture Hangers
• Ladder (optional)
• Painter’s Tape (optional)

---

Tools

• Hammer
• Measuring Tape
• Pencil
• Level (optional)

---

Step 1: Mark Artwork Placement

Once you determine placement, make a very light pencil line at the top edge of the frame. This can also be done with painter’s tape. Also note the center of the artwork. Use a ladder to mark the spot if needed.   

NOTE: Avoid hanging art or photography too high. Eye-level is usually best.

---

Step 2: Measure for Hardware

On the back side of the artwork, measure the distance between the top edge of the frame and the hanging hardware. If you’re dealing with a hanging wire, pull it tight to get this measurement.

---

Step 3: Install Hanger

From the pencil line on the wall, drop down and make another mark—this is where the hanger will go. With a hammer, tap in your hardware. These hangers come in different sizes with a variety of weight ratings, up to 100 lbs.  Always check that you have the right type of hanger for your particular wall type and opt for a higher weight rating than you think you need for an extra level of safety.

---

Step 4: Add Artwork

Once the hanger is installed, place your artwork carefully being sure it is appropriately centered on the hanger. You may also want to use a level to check whether it is hanging straight. If not, you may need to adjust the piece to the left or right to bring it into balance.

The post How To Hang Large Artwork appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

from Roofing Pro http://ift.tt/2fkWLBs

Curated by a professional Roofing Contractor

How To Update Your Vanity and Faucet

The quickest way to improve your bathroom’s style and functionality is to update the vanity. Luckily, with the right tools and know-how, it’s easier to DIY than you think.

How To Update Your Vanity and Faucet

Materials

•       New Vanity w/Top
•       New Faucet & Drain
•       Plumber’s Putty
•       Plumber’s Teflon Tape
•       Rags
•       Bowl or Bucket
•       Kitchen & Bath Caulk

---

Tools

•       Cordless Drill
•       Adjustable Wrench
•       Channellock Tongue & Groove Pliers
•       Pry Bar
•       Utility Blade

---

Step 1: Turn Off Water

Turn off water supply lines by turning the oval shaped knobs clockwise.  This is will ensure there’s no water flowing into the pipes. Then, turn on the fixture to release any water from the lines.

---

Step 2: Disconnect Plumbing

Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the supply lines. Disconnect the drain pipe at the P-trap (the bend in the drain line) using Channellock pliers. Place rags or a large bowl/bucket under the P-trap to catch any drips. Also, stick a rag in the drain hole to avoid any sewer gas seepage while you’re working.

---

Step 3: Prep for Removal

With the existing plumbing disconnected, prep the cabinet for removal. Using a utility blade, cut any caulk between the cabinet and the floor/wall.  You may want to pry up the countertop for better access to the cabinet interior. Next, use a drill to unscrew all fasteners that were securing it to the wall.  Slowly pull the old vanity out to avoid damaging the walls and flooring. Now is also a good opportunity to make any repairs to existing flooring or moldings.

---

Step 4: Prep New Items

Unbox all your new items and organize them for a stress-free assembly. Review the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep in mind, it’s much easier to install the new faucet before you move the vanity into place. Many cabinets are designed with an open back for easy access.

---

Step 5: Install Faucet

Place the new fixture down through the countertop holes, tightening the mounting nuts underneath until the fixture is firmly in place.  Connect the lift rod. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

---

Step 6: Seal Drain Flange

To get a good seal between the basin and the drain flange, roll plumber’s putty into a 4-inch long worm and wrap it around the underside of the flange. Then place it in the sink basin and tighten up the nut and washer underneath. You want the seal tight enough to squeeze a bit of putty out. Once it’s secure and tight, wipe away excess putty using a rag.

---

Step 7: Secure New Vanity

Our vanity is freestanding, so we moved it into place over the existing plumbing. Make sure your new vanity is level and flush against the wall. If it’s not, just add a small wooden shim in an inconspicuous area to correct the issue. Then, secure the vanity using the supplied screws fastened into a wall stud.

---

Step 8: Reconnect Plumbing

To finish the faucet installation, reconnect the water supply lines. If they’re worn or stiff, replace them to avoid future leaks. Next, reinstall the P-trap. Use plumber’s tape around the threaded openings to make sure you get a tight seal.

---

Step 9: Test and Caulk

With everything reconnected, turn the water supply back on and try out the new fixture. Be sure to check underneath for any drips. If there are leaks, simply tighten all the joints, as needed.

Finally, caulk where the countertop and/or backsplash meets the wall to create a watertight seal.

The post How To Update Your Vanity and Faucet appeared first on The Home Depot Blog.

from Roofing Pro http://ift.tt/2yCLbKs

Curated by a professional Roofing Contractor