Aspect Honeycomb-Stainless-Matted Backsplash

The adhesive on the back side of the Aspect tiles is engineered to be both highly-aggressive and pressure-sensitive (figure 1). Proper wall preparation is required. Aspect can be installed over most structurally sound substrates if they are clean, flat, smooth, dry, and free of dust, wax, soap scum and grease. Acceptable substrates are drywall, plaster or clean, smooth tile (glazed, porcelain type tile; not porous or textured). Any damaged, loose or uneven areas must be repaired, patched, leveled and primed. Fill cracks and irregularities with wallboard compound or spackling, then sand smooth with fine-grit sandpaper.

Occasionally, even after properly preparing the substrate, the surface can still have bows, high spots, ridges, or uneven areas. Place a level against the wall. If there is a 1/8” gap or greater, use a filler such as spackling or drywall compound to fill in imperfections.

Allow the tiles and substrate to come to room temperature (65 to 100 degrees F.) before installation.

Measure the first area to be covered by Aspect material. We recommend you lay out the entire project on a flat surface, like the counter top, a table or the floor, before adhering to the substrate, to be sure you have enough tiles and your design and layout is correct. This will also give you good reference as to how the tiles will look on your wall. As each project is different, be sure to plan for cutouts, corners or edge treatments before applying tiles.

One popular layout method is to begin from the inside corner of your counter and work across left to right. This method allows you to use two points of reference, your vertical wall and horizontal counter top. Note — when using these two points of reference, be sure to check them for level on the horizontal plane and 90°on the vertical plane. This will prevent any problems as you build your backsplash. Lay a 4’ level on top of your counter top or backsplash return lip if you have one. If the counter is level, use it as your reference. If not, identify the high point(s) of the counter top. Draw a horizontal line using your level and snap a reference line to indicate the high point (figure 2).

Snap a reference line to indicate the top of the first row of tiles. The top edge of the first row will be installed along this line. Use a level or measuring tape to mark the vertical termination point of your installation (figure 3).

Do not bend the tile backwards against the matting as the tile could permanently stretch and become unusable (figure 4).

Lightly place the tile onto the wall using your reference lines (figure 5). Do not apply pressure to the tile until you are sure of your placement.

The aggressive design of the adhesive does not allow for repositioning after pressing firmly. If it is in the right position, firmly apply even pressure across the entire tile.

When applying subsequent tiles, first “dry fit” the tiles with the adhesive liner in place to ensure proper fit. Dry fit tile against the wall exactly how it will be placed. Place each section as if placing a puzzle piece (figure 6).

Lightly place subsequent tiles on the wall using your reference lines. Do not apply pressure to the tile until you are sure of your placement (figure 7).

When tiles are installed to your satisfaction, press each again firmly with your hand. This will ensure that the adhesive bonds to the substrate.

Allow 24 hours for the adhesive to set before exposing them to a heat source (such as a stovetop or oven). Clean or touch-up tiles with glass cleaner and soft cloth or paper towels.

If desired, use a fine-grit sandpaper or a small metal file to debur the cut edges (figure 10).