Kitchen new construction, I want to install slate subway tiles as a backsplash over painted drywall. ok or ?

Do i need to install backer board first or can i install directly over primed and flat painted drywall? The contractor left the electrical boxes and recepticals out 1/4 inch in preparation for the slate tiles. Do I use mortar or thin set?Kitchen new construction, I want to install slate subway tiles as a backsplash over painted drywall. ok or ?
Mortar and the thin set that you refer to for tiling are the same. The use of a backer board is not needed in this situation. It s a MUST in wet areas and some other tile projects and is not over rated. Seal the slate if its a real natural slate. Wipe off the backs too if it is, there may be a fine dust on the slate that need to be wiped off. If this it a slate look tile , nothing needs to be done. Mastic is the way to go in this application. Both thin set and mastic you have just so much time to work with. Field conditions apply to both as to when they ll skim over. You can use either , but if your a ';rookie'; mastic is easier. Any questions you can e mail me thru my avatar and check my qualifications there GLKitchen new construction, I want to install slate subway tiles as a backsplash over painted drywall. ok or ?
backerboard is overrated, the proper way to do it is to install lathe and mud the wall before tiling. if you're just going for the look and insist on diy, i would just scuff up the wall with a rough sandpaper or rasp and go ahead and tile it. a mastic will be much easier to work with than a thinset or mortar as you will have more time to work with it before it sets up. if you're not going for permanent, you'll do fine. good luck and great choice in materials!





rob,


backerboard is only a must for those with no real tiling experience. mud is always the way to go but the new guys have no idea where to begin with that. ten years ago, contractors who used backerboard were hacks and they knew it. it's like drywall vs wet plaster, although drywall has taken over in america, it is still no substitute for wet plaster.








carolathome


wow, slate is the only stone that lacks a pore structure making the water absorption rate .002% wich is better than any other stone in the world. people spread more misinformation than truth, how embarrassing. check out the video below about slate if you're interested in truth.
I always thought that real slate was porous and should not be used around water. Check with your supplier to see if the slate you choose has already been sealed. There are lots of regular ceramic tiles with the slate look that don't need any special sealer.