Backsplash Sealing

[faultymechanics]

Hello all,

Back with another new homeowner question. Previous owners put in Granite countertops with Glass tile on the wall/ backsplash. It seems they never sealed the seam at the bottom which I would like to do to prevent further deterioration of the grout.

What should I use to seal this in? Should I go as far as I can all around the kitchen where the glass tile meets the granite? Or just the side the backsplash is on?

 

[John Galt]

Depending on the color of the backsplash and countertop, decide on clear or colored caulking.
Silicone would work well, a very small bead between the two surfaces. It's more difficult to work with, smooth, and clean up but it will last longer and adhere better. The next option is a latex caulk that can be cleaned up with water. There are some that dry clear but come out of the tube white. I would seal any area where two materials come together-latex caulk anywhere that needs to be painted.

 

[SpaceBus]

Allegedly the DAP 3.0 silicone caulk can be painted, but it really does cure crystal clear. For wet applications I prefer silicone vs acrylic with latex.

 

[faultymechanics]

Thanks guys, silicon it is and I'll try to get it anywhere I can access where the tile meets the granite counter.

It seems best practice is to use some tape on each side to ensure a clean bead.

 

[SpaceBus]

Thanks guys, silicon it is and I'll try to get it anywhere I can access where the tile meets the granite counter.

It seems best practice is to use some tape on each side to ensure a clean bead.

This is what I do when appearance is important.

 

[semipro]

Use kitchen and bath-grade silicone. This usually has something in it to prevent mold growth in wet areas.
Don't forget to use backer rod if needed. You don't want the cross-section to be too thick or the caulk won't stretch as intended and it may pull away from the countertop or backsplash. You also don't want to waste a bunch of your sealant into the area behind the countertop or backsplash. Some great info here.