How To Install Copper Tile

Copper is a natural element, whose beauty makes it a good option for decorative purposes. Hammered copper tiles are one of the copper products suitable to be used in a kitchen backsplash and other non-traffic vertical wall areas because of the stunning character they have. They will create a focal point wherever you decide to use them. Although copper tiles are often softer than other materials, copper is naturally anti-microbial, making it a good choice for kitchen spaces.

The copper tiles suitable for backsplashes are usually made out of 18 gauge copper sheets and can be installed using high strength contact cement or highly adhesive silicone. To avoid flaking over time, our copper tiles are made using about 97% copper and 3% zinc to give its strength. To improve its appearance and bonding to the wall, our copper tiles are beveled on the edges, so they appear to be ¼” thick, with the hollow back.

Our tiles have a patina on top of them, which is a natural weathering process, but very easy to scratch if abrasives are used on top of them. Because of this, careful handling is recommended. Do not treat them as regular ceramic tiles, because they are not.

Cutting copper tile is very easy. Use a metal cutter putting the tile facing up (finished face up) to avoid scratches. Use a sander to soften the cut surface. If you need to bevel the cut surface use a metal base where you can hit the edge to bend it back. Using a hammer hit the edge softly until the desired effect is attained.

Difficulty

Moderate.

Things You'll Need

• Copper tiles
• Rubber mallet
• High strength contact cement or silicone
• Metal Cutter

Instructions

• Make sure the surface is clean, free of dust, preferably not painted, so the cement bonds stronger to the surface.
• Start your installation on a line-by-line basis. Put the cement on the back of each tile as you install them, pressing them against the wall and properly aligning them. If you need to use a hammer to press them, use a rubber mallet instead. Do not hit the tiles too hard because they are soft and can be bent. You can leave grout line of 1/16”; since the tiles are beveled at the edges, the actual grout line will and can be wider than that.
• Optionally apply grout to the tile edges. If you go for a cement-based one, do not use sanded one because it can scratch the tile surface very easily. The most recommended will be a colored silicone-based one. Happy installation!

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