I am planning to install a ceramic backsplash above my laminate counter top in the kitchen over the painted drywall. What kind of treatment is needed for the drywall so that it does not get moist? Also, a quick step-by-step procedure would help a lot, too. -Raj

Hi Raj,

You should be able to tile right over your existing drywall with no problem. Once the adhesive dries and the grout has set, it will be imperious to moisture.

For detailed instructions on how to install a ceramic tile backsplash, check out the following article, Ceramic Tile Backsplash Project, and video, Ceramic Tile Backsplash, on our website.

Good luck with your project,

Tags: , drywall

4 Comments on “Installing a Ceramic Tile Backsplash Over Drywall”

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1. New York Bathroom Remodeling Says:
   May 21st, 2008 at 8:03 pm

   For a sink area, you really should be using a “rock board”. Green drywall is not waterproof – it will delaminate just like regular drywall if it gets wet. Green drywall is just more humidity resistant so it is used in bathrooms. I would cut out an area of drywall slightly smaller then your tile area, cut out a piece of tile backer board to fit the cutout area, and shim up the backer board so the tile will sit flush with the surrounding wall. Fasten the backer. The tile will overlap onto the drywall slightly and at the same time seal up the outside perimeter well to prevent water intrusion. No taping will be needed since your tile glue & tile will seal the seam.

2. pedro Says:
   September 22nd, 2008 at 2:49 pm

   how do you install tile on a shawer?

3. Deb Says:
   February 27th, 2012 at 8:54 am

   We are wanting to put small tile squares on the back splash in our kitchen. The finish on the walls is a texture that has been knocked down. Can we tile over this or do we need to sand it down smooth.
   Thanks

4. clueless Says:
   May 13th, 2012 at 10:31 am

   we tore out our previous tile backsplash, which was adhered to drywall. it of course ripped up some of the paperr on the drywall. the drywall is still very intact with the exception of torn up paper. question: is it ok to tile over this “disturbed” drywall and should I prep this drywall in any way? thanks.

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