YES! Installing stainless steel tile is similar to installing regular tile, with a few notable exceptions. In many ways, stainless is easier than stone or ceramic tile. Many people choose to install our tile tightly together. This way, you do not need spacers and will not have to grout. Not grouting will shorten the job by at least two days. You have to let regular tile cure before grouting, then the grout has to cure before sealing. You skip those steps if you choose not to grout. If you are using the standard hardboard backer, the tile is installed with a construction adhesive (like Liquid Nails) instead of Thinset. You apply the adhesive using a standard caulk gun, directly to the back of the tile, and press it on the wall. Cutting metal is probably the most challenging part of the process. However, if you are comfortable cutting regular tile with a wet saw, you should have no problem mastering stainless tiles. There will be less waste as well. You will not crack our tiles, but you may have a bad cut or two. Typically, we do not recommend getting a lot of extra tiles (10% to 20% for a regular tile project). So if you are moderately skilled and have the right tools, this project is well within the capability of many homeowners. We are just a call away and enjoy working with our customers to achieve a great result.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit KAIYAO.
We also have two installation guides available here: How To Install and here: Installation Guide
When the tile is formed, it creates a void on the back of the tile. By applying a backer inside this void, the tile gains added rigidity and provides a suitable surface to bond to the substrate. The hardboard is the standard backer and works great in most situations. It is not affected by occasional splashings, like behind a sink. We use a 3/16" thick hardboard which stays mostly hidden by the the stainless steel tile's fully-formed factory edge. It has the lowest profile, as it makes a tile that is about ¼” thick. It installs easily using a construction adhesive similar to Liquid Nails.
If you are going to use the tile in an area that gets soaked frequently, like in a shower or outside, you will need to use the Fiberock backer. It works great in areas that see a lot of moisture. Because it is a little thicker and makes a tile that is about 3/8” thick, it is sometimes chosen when mixing stainless tiles with other types of tile, such as stone, ceramic or glass, to better match their thickness. However, because Fiberock is thicker, it does protrude from the back side of the tile and is NOT hidden by the stainless steel tile's factory edge. It is typically installed with Thinset, like regular tile.
To summarize, the hardboard backer is 3/16" thick, makes a 1/4" thick tile, and stays mostly hidden behind the tile's fully-formed factory edge. It's our most popular backer and is used in most situations. The Fiberock backer is 1/4" thick, makes a 3/8" thick tile, and because it's thicker, it does protrude from the backside of the tile and is NOT hidden by the stainless steel tile's fully-formed factory edge.
More information on our backers is available here: Tile Backing Options
We only use U.S. produced stainless steel. Our steel is a ferritic stainless (430 series) that offers a wide range of properties that make it suitable for decorative and functional walls and backsplashes. It is one of the most common stainless steels used for decorative and functional purposes (like commercial sinks, outdoor gas grills, architectural trim, etc.) There is an ongoing debate on what type of stainless steel is best for a backsplash. The two most common types of stainless are 300 series and 400 series. While the 300 series offers slightly better corrosion resistance (primarily because of its nickel content), 400 series offers excellent corrosion resistance and we have never had a complaint of corrosion with our standard 430 stainless. It has a couple of other advantages that make 430 stainless our choice. It is a little less expensive because it uses molybdenum for corrosion resistance and ours is annealed to further improve corrosion resistance. 300 series is more expensive because nickel is not a raw material that the United States is a significant producer. Because the nickel is imported from competitor countries (like Russia and China), it adds to the cost of production and comes with a political cost. A further benefit of 430 series steel is that magnets will stick to it. That makes sticking your menus and notes on the backsplash with a magnet possible, just like on your refrigerator (also usually made with 430 series stainless).
The PVC film that is on the face of the tile serves an important function during production, shipping, and installation. It protects the brushed finish of the tile and reduces the chance of nicks and scratches. It is recommended that the film is left on until after the tile is installed. Once the tile is adhered to the wall and cured, the PVC can be peeled off. There will be a little adhesive residue on the tile and it will need to be cleaned. We recommend a cleaner and polish combination like Sheila Shine, which we carry on our website. However, there are many other products available to you locally. There is a discussion on our blog with great tips on cleaning and a good list of products.
Before leaving this topic, I want to mention that the PVC film can be a little tedious, but it really works well to protect the tile. Prior to adhering the tile, we recommend that you begin peeling the film off all sides and just leave the face covered. This will make peeling the PVC off easier. Some people report good results with peeling the PVC while installing and use extra care to avoid scratching the tile. If you are going to grout the tile, you definitely want the PVC clear of the joints so that you don’t ruin the grout when peeling or get the film trapped in the joint. Also, instead of floating the grout, you may consider using a grout bag with a thin bead tip to apply the grout directly to the joint and smooth with a wet finger. In any case, you want to avoid using a sanded grout, unless absolutely necessary.
There are several ways to cut stainless steel tile. First, the primary concern while cutting stainless steel is to avoid generating a lot of heat that may discolor the steel. Until recently, we have recommended that tile is cut with a tile wet saw with a diamond blade. That is still a very acceptable method to cut tile; however, there is a method we found recently that is easier and less expensive. Stainless can be cut using a band saw or jig saw using a fine-toothed blade with 17 or more teeth to the inch. The trick is getting a straight cut and protecting the tile. There are two relatively new products that solve these issues. First, Rockwell has a tool called Blade Runner X2 that is essentially a small tabletop tool that has a jigsaw blade mounted from underneath the table. The upper end of the blade is supported between two rollers. This tool was purchased on Amazon and delivered to our shop for right around $100. Jigsaw blades are cheap while diamond blades used on wet saws are not. This tool could pay for itself the first time it is used. There is also a table made by a company in Germany (Neutechnik) that you can mount your jigsaw on, with the same advantages as the Rockwell tool. We are in the process of evaluating both tools and will provide more information and instructions in the near future. Meanwhile, the tile wet saw works well for straight cuts. When you have to notch a tile (like around an outlet), you can make the straight cuts with the wet saw and the inside cuts with an abrasive cutoff wheel in a Dremel rotary tool.
We have posted a video on YouTube that shows several methods for cutting stainless steel tile:
Yes, we enjoy working with you to help you get the best result possible for your project. In the future, we will be offering videos to address some of the more common layout issues. In general, work to create a design and layout that fits your space best. A couple key considerations are: 1) how the pattern fits within openings and 2) how the tiles end, both in corners and the ends of the pattern. By fitting in an opening, we are talking typically space above the stove and below the vent or microwave, and the area above the sink. If possible, we want the pattern to be symmetrical in these spaces. By that, we mean that the pattern is centered within the spaces. After that, we want to see how the tile will end in the corners and on the sides. On small walls, it is good to make both sides end with the same size tile (symmetrical). Also, we don’t want to see a pattern end with just a sliver of a tile. The very small tile will be distracting. When the tile is to continue around a corner, experiment with how that transition is best made. There are two good methods. One is to make it a continuation of the pattern around the corner. Let’s say we are using 4”X8” tile and when we reach the corner, we have to cut a tile to 6 inches to fit. Take the 2-inch leftover and turn the corner with it. This makes for a nice flow. Another option is to make the opposite walls mirror each other. So in the above example, if you finish with a 6-inch tile, make the next wall start with a 6-inch tile. Both patterns will be symmetrical and produce a contiguous look. With any type of tile that you install, it is not likely that every consideration will be accommodated. In that case, you choose the most visible element to make right and the least visible element will require some compromise.
We strive to ship all orders as soon as possible, usually within 1 week, if not sooner. Keep in mind, we are not just grabbing your tiles off a shelf in a massive distribution center and shipping them to you. We start working on making your tiles the minute you place your order, but isn't it worth the wait to have USA made, hand crafted, and super unique high quality stainless steel tiles?!? We think so! And so do all of our thousands of other happy customers:)
Please allow us an additional week or 2 longer to make tiles not ordered as often such as fiberock-backed tiles and Accent/3D Design tiles. For custom orders or orders containing our largest tiles (12" x 12" and 12" x 24"), it may take longer to produce and ship those also.
For Commercial Orders, send over your square footage and tile size needed along with contact info, and we'll let you know how soon we can ship it to you. Simply send through our contact page., us at , or leave us a voicemail at 404-655-, and one of our commercial specialists will get back to you asap!
Please let us know if there is a certain date you need your order in hand, and we will do our best to work within your project timeline requirements so you can stay on time (and budget!). Simply add this information to the order notes when placing your order or send us an at .
Metal tiles might not be your usual pick, but they do pack a punch of pizzazz and practicality that’s hard to miss. What’s more, these sturdy tiles are easy on the eyes and tough as nails, all while being kind to the planet.
Curious to know more? Stick with us as we decode how to use these metal marvels, from spicing up backsplashes to fortifying decks, making your space both stylish and smart.
Choosing tiles can be hard. But, if you’re looking at metal tiles, you’re in for something good.
Stainless Steel tiles are great for those who want something durable but not too expensive. They come in many designs, from a gentle brushed look to a high-gloss mirror finish. They also reflect light so well that they can make any room look modern and edgy.
For more stainless steel floor tileinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Copper tiles, on the flip side, get better looking as they age, just like fine wine. They can also kill germ, which is a big plus. And if you go for stainless stee, you’re sure to get no rust and a lot of style, which is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
Like old-fashioned design? Try gold look metal tiles. It looks elegantly old and can bend into many shapes. But if you want something that can be used not just inside, corten steel is a great option for outdoor use. It gives a natural, changing look over time.
With so many metal tile choices, changing your home’s style is now more interesting.
One of the biggest advantages of metal tiles is their incredible durability and longevity.
Unlike other tile materials, metal tiles can easily last 50 years or longer. They also holds up exceptionally well to wear and tear, even with water and extreme temperatures. These tiles maintain their integrity and don’t become brittle or crack over time.
Once installed properly, a metal tile basically becomes a “set it and forget” feature for your home.
Metal tiles might steal the show in kitchens and bathrooms, but their potential goes way beyond! These shiny squares (or rectangles, hexagons - you get the idea) can add a touch of modern luxury to almost any room, indoors & outdoors.
Backsplash Tile Design
The classic choice for a reason. A metal backsplash in your kitchen adds a reflective pop that brightens the space and makes cleaning a whole lot easier. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a variety of countertop materials, from sleek granite to warm butcher block.
Fireplace Tile Flair
Surround your fireplace with metal tiles for a dramatic and modern update. Stainless steel creates a clean, contemporary look, while copper adds warmth and a touch of vintage charm. Bonus points for using tiles that continue up the chimney as they visually stretch the room’s height.
Accent Wall Wow
Feeling bold? Dedicate an entire wall in your living room, dining area, or even bedroom to metal tiles. Play with texture - a hammered finish adds depth, while smooth tiles reflect light and create a spacious feel. But remember, a little goes a long way, so keep the rest of the room’s decor simple.
Ceiling Sparkle
Yes, you read that right! Metal tiles on the ceiling can add a touch of unexpected glamour. Think boutique hotel vibes or a modern art gallery. This works best in rooms with high ceilings to avoid a closed-in feel.
Kitchen Pantry & Bar Backsplashes
Metal tiles are perfect for kitchen pantries and home bars, providing heat-resistant and easy-to-clean surface behind your prep area, and even on the 4 corners of your bar counters.
Planter Boxes
Give your planters a unique upgrade with metal tile cladding. This adds an unexpected allure to your greenery and protects the planters from the outdoor elements.
Are you interested in learning more about automotive shop flooring? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!