Transform your next kitchen or bathroom job with a professionally installed splashback that combines style with practicality. We know splashbacks can be those “just get it done” projects that need to look great without taking all day, so we’ve put together this practical guide highlighting our recommended product system and key techniques for quick, professional results. From surface prep to final sealing, we’ll help you deliver clean lines and perfect grout joints that will impress your customers and stand the test of time.
Showing all 4 results
GX-500 Flexible Grout
A flexible wall and floor grout available in eight colours with matching silicones. For use with ceramic, porcelain, natural stone and mosaic tiles.
In this video, Brad explains how to tile a kitchen splashback using Dunlop adhesive, grout and silicone.
✅ How to measure and set out tiles
✅ How to cut tiles
✅ How to tile around a plug socket
✅ Adhesive application using DUNLOP RX-1000
✅ Grout application using DUNLOP GX-500
✅ Silicone application using DUNLOP FX-90
Explore our Project FAQs to find quick answers to common questions about tiling a splashback, including product selection, application guidelines, and best practices for achieving optimal results.
Q: How do I prepare my wall for a kitchen splashback?
Ensure that the wall is clean, dry and free from dust, grease or loose material. Repair any damaged areas and allow to dry completely. Remove any wallpaper and fill any holes. Apply DUNLOP MULTI PURPOSE PRIMER to seal the surface and improve adhesion. Always protect your worktop with a protective film before starting work.
Q: How do I calculate how many metro tiles I need for my splashback?
Measure the width and height of your splashback area in meters, multiply them to get the area, then add 10% for cuts and wastage. For example, if your area is 2m², you’ll need enough tiles to cover 2.2m². Most metro tiles come in boxes covering approximately 0.5-1m².
Q: What's the best layout for metro tiles on a splashback?
The classic horizontal brick bond (where each row is offset by half a tile) is most popular, but there are many options:
Test different patterns by laying tiles out dry before fixing them to the wall.
Q: What adhesive should I use for a kitchen splashback?
For kitchen splashbacks where water resistance is important, we’d recommend either:
Q: How do I apply adhesive for metro tiles?
Apply the adhesive to the wall using a 6mm notched trowel, covering about 1m² at a time (or an area you can tile within 20-30 minutes). Hold the trowel at a 45° angle to create consistent ridges all in the same direction. For wet areas like behind a sink, use a solid-bed notched trowel to ensure 100% coverage.
Q: How thick should I apply the adhesive?
Apply to a final bed depth of approximately 3mm. The notches on your trowel will help achieve the correct thickness.
Q: Should I start tiling from the bottom or top of the splashback?
For most splashbacks, start from the bottom row directly above the countertop, using tile spacers to create a small gap between the tiles and the countertop (which will later be filled with silicone sealant). This approach ensures that any cut tiles will be at the top where they’re less noticeable.
Q: What size tile spacers should I use with metro tiles?
For most metro tile installations, 2mm spacers are ideal. These provide enough space for grout while maintaining the classic subway tile look. Smaller spacers (1.5mm) give a more seamless appearance, while larger spacers (3mm) create more definition.
Q: How do I cut metro tiles for the edges of my splashback?
For straight cuts along the edges, use a manual tile cutter. For more complex cuts around outlets or pipes, use a wet saw or tile nippers for intricate shapes. When cutting metro tiles, always cut from the back of the tile to minimize chipping on the glazed surface.
Q: When can I grout after tiling my splashback?
DUNLOP GX-500 FLEXIBLE GROUT is ideal for kitchen splashbacks as it’s water-resistant and flexible, helping to accommodate slight movement without cracking. Available in multiple colors to complement your tiles, it’s suitable for joint widths from 2mm to 15mm.
Q: How do I apply grout to metro tiles?
Q: How do I seal the edges of my splashback?
Apply DUNLOP FX-90 SILICONE SEALANT to:
For a professional finish:
“When tiling a splashback with metro tiles, always start by setting out a few rows on your worktop first. This dry run lets you play with layouts and decide where cuts will fall – especially around plug sockets. I’ve seen too many jobs where someone has rushed straight in, only to end up with tiny slivers of cut tiles at visible edges.
And remember, when applying your DUNLOP RX-3000 adhesive, never spread more than you can tile in 20 minutes. The secret to a professional finish isn’t working faster – it’s working smarter. Take your time with preparation, and the installation will almost take care of itself.”
Bradley Cutts – Dunlop Adhesives Training Manager
