Make a vintage tile splashback

Use a handful of special tiles to create a unique look

‘Reclaimed tiles are limited editions in the truest sense of the word and an example of real craftsmanship,’ says Lee Thornley, founder of tile company Bert & May. ‘They often come in small quantities and so are perfect for a small project such as a splashback. It’s best to buy from a reliable source and ensure that all the tiles have been checked for quality. We clean our reclaimed tiles so they are ready to install.’

You will need

• Sandpaper
• Sugar soap
• Tiles
• Tile cutter
• Tile adhesive
• Grout spacers
• Sealant and brush/roller (if required)
• Grout and trowel
• Sponge

1 Prepare the area

Remove any old tiles and fill holes in the plaster, if necessary. Sand the wall until smooth, then wash the wall down with sugar soap.

2 Prepare your tiles

Depending on where you have sourced your tiles, the backs and edges may need cleaning and lightly sanding first.

3 Lay the tiles

There may be inconsistencies in reclaimed tiles, so it could take a little longer to install as the sizing and bases will vary, but the installation techniques are the same as with new tiles. Apply adhesive then fix the tiles to the wall, using grout spacers at least 1mm between the tiles. Leave the adhesive to dry completely – ideally overnight – then wipe the tiles to ensure they are clean and dust-free.

4 Seal encaustic tiles, if using

If you are using encaustic (cement) tiles, they will need to be sealed before grouting using a proprietary sealant, as they are porous and may be damaged by water or become stained. It’s advisable to reapply sealant every 12–18 months to keep them protected – simply paint it on with a brush or roller.

5 Apply the grout

Point grout with your chosen colour, clean away the excess with a sponge and leave to harden. For a splashback behind a cooker, an extra glaze protector is also a good final step to provide protection against splashes from hot cooking oil.

Sourcebook

• Bert & May sources encaustic tiles in a range of styles and quantities. They can also recreate the design of reclaimed tiles if you need a larger quantity for your project
• Maitland & Poate stocks a range of antique and vintage reclaimed tiles in excellent condition.
• Hunt on Etsy and eBay for individual tiles to create an eclectic look

WORDS: LINDSEY HARRAD