Backsplash done!

The left side of our galley kitchen

I've finished the grout now on the backsplash and it really makes a difference. Grouting is a really easy step. You can just follow the instructions that come with the grout but here are my tips:

1. buy sanded grout for floors and unsanded for backsplashes - check that the container allows for your kind of tiles - ie. the first container we bought said "not for glass tile" and we had to go back to the store to change it. Another feature is "stain resistant" which seemed like a plus to me.
2. pre-mixed grout (not powder) will save you the mixing step and you will be sure that the grout is the right consistency
3. apply the grout with a grout tool, mine was a plastic square with a rubbery side to smooth on the grout without scratching the tile
4. use a large sponge to clean up the excess grout, wring the sponge out well so that you don't put too much water on the area
5. some grout will remain on the tile - a thin film - don't keep wiping or you will clean away too much of the grout
6. after the grout has "set" you can wipe the film off the tiles and buff them up
7. once the grout dries you could get a few little gaps that don't have enough grout. No need to panic, the grout should adhere to itself so you can just reapply some more grout.
8. add caulking along the edges to protect the grouted tile area from moisture

And this is the right side of our galley kitchen. I'm loving the blue glass tile, it adds a nice bit of colour and sparkle to our white kitchen.