Replacing a Backsplash While Keeping Your Tampa Countertops

Want a different kitchen backsplash while keeping the countertops you already like? For a Tampa home, this can be a focused update worth discussing before committing to a larger remodel. The first decision is what stays, what comes off and where the new tile will begin and end.

Send Seven Golden Floors photos of the entire counter run as well as close-ups of the existing backsplash. We can review the proposed scope for your backsplash installation estimate. Keeping the countertop is a project goal to assess on site, rather than a result to assume before removal is planned.

Decide what happens to the short countertop backsplash

Some kitchens have a short upright strip made from the countertop material, with painted wall or tile above it. Tell us whether you want to keep that strip and tile above it, or explore removing it so the new backsplash begins closer to the countertop surface.

Those are different scopes. Ask how the strip is attached, what may be exposed behind it and whether its removal could affect the countertop or wall. Include close-up photos of corners and seams. Avoid ordering tile based only on the visible wall area before that decision is reviewed.

Protect the surfaces you plan to keep

List the items staying in place: countertop, sink, faucet, cabinets and appliances. Point out existing chips, cracks or loose areas during the estimate visit. Discuss how surfaces will be protected during removal and installation, and who will handle any appliance movement.

If countertop replacement is already part of a future kitchen plan, mention it now. Ask whether doing the backsplash first would create work that needs to be redone later. A clear conversation about the sequence can help you decide how much to include in this project.

Review the wall after the old backsplash comes off

The existing finish does not tell the whole story about the wall behind it. Ask how wall repair will be priced if removal reveals damage, loose areas or old adhesive that needs attention. The estimate should distinguish the agreed installation work from conditions that cannot be confirmed until removal.

Marazzi’s wall tile guidance calls for a structurally sound, clean, smooth and dry surface, with damaged or uneven areas repaired. It also directs installers to follow the setting material instructions. The selected tile and installation products need to be reviewed for your actual wall; an attractive tile sample alone does not establish that the surface is ready.

Choose the ending points before buying tile

Photograph the end of each cabinet run, any window and the space behind the range. If the upper cabinets and countertop end in different places, mark the ending point you would like on a photo and ask to review it before installation. Include the wall area you want repainted rather than tiled.

Bring the tile sample into your kitchen beside the countertop under the lights you use daily. Compare it with the existing cabinet color, then confirm the final tile choice and coverage area together. Browse our residential tile and mosaic catalog and send the product links you are considering. Material prices are provided by quote.

Send a clear request for a Tampa backsplash estimate

• Your exact installation address and ZIP code.
• Wide photos of each wall and close-ups of the short backsplash, if present.
• Approximate wall measurements and your preferred tile or product link.
• A list of the countertops, cabinets and appliances you want to keep.
• Whether you want removal, wall repair and any painting reviewed in the scope.

Installation is limited to a 30-mile radius of 6131 Anderson Road, Tampa, FL 33634. Send your individual address so we can confirm service eligibility; a Tampa mailing address alone does not establish coverage.

Receive an extra 10% discount on materials when you hire Seven Golden Floors for installation. Labor is quoted separately. Materials-only purchases use the regular quoted material price.

Ready to update the wall while planning around the kitchen you have? Request a Free Estimate or call (813) 400-4861. Tell us what you want to preserve so the estimate starts with the right scope.