Installing a Floating Shelf Before a Tile Backsplash (Why I Did It This Way)

When I was working on the garage apartment kitchenette, I knew I wanted to add a floating shelf on this wall for both storage and styling. I also knew the entire wall was going to be covered in tile, so I had to decide the best order to install everything.

You can install a floating shelf on top of tile, but after looking into it, I decided it would be much easier to install the shelf first and then tile around it. This made it easier to make sure the shelf was secure, level, and attached directly into the wall studs.

If you’re planning a kitchen backsplash with floating shelves, here’s why installing the shelf first worked so well.

Why I Installed the Floating Shelf Before the Tile

If you install a shelf after tiling, you have to drill through the tile using a diamond drill bit, and you have to be very careful not to crack the tile. You also have to make sure you hit the studs through the tile, which can make the process more complicated.

Since I wanted this shelf to be very strong, I chose to install the shelf first, directly into the studs, and then tile around it.

This gave me a few advantages:

• Easier to locate wall studs
• Stronger support for the shelf
• Less risk of damaging tile
• Cleaner finished look

Once the shelf was installed, I simply tiled the backsplash around it.

Choosing a Strong Floating Shelf

I didn’t just want a decorative shelf — I wanted one that was solid enough to actually hold heavier items without worrying about it sagging or pulling out of the wall.

After looking at a lot of options, I decided to use a shelf from Ultrashelf.

They make solid wood floating shelves that can be customized to almost any size, and what really sold me was their hidden stud-lock bracket system. The bracket is designed so that it lines up with wall studs and gives the shelf a very strong hold.

Because this shelf is installed directly into the studs, it feels extremely secure once it’s mounted.

How the Ultrashelf Hanging System Works

Once you locate your studs, the bracket attaches directly to the wall. The shelf itself comes with pre-drilled holes that slide right onto the bracket. Because the bracket is hidden inside the shelf, you get the clean floating look without sacrificing strength.

This system from Ultrashelf made installation really simple and gave me confidence that the shelf would hold up over time.

Saving Money Tip — Check the Overstock Section

These shelves are solid wood and custom made, so they are more expensive than some floating shelf options. Before ordering, I checked the Ultrashelf overstock section and was able to find the exact shelf I needed for about 40% off.

I chose a beautiful walnut shelf in a natural finish, and I’m really impressed with the quality. It looks perfect with the tile backsplash and navy cabinets in the kitchenette.

If you want a custom size shelf but don’t want to pay full price, the overstock section is definitely worth checking first.

Budget Floating Shelf Options

When I was first searching, I did come across some more affordable floating shelf options that could work depending on what you need. If you don’t need a custom size, or if the shelf won’t be holding heavy items, you can save quite a bit of money with a simpler option.

Here’s one I considered that looks like a good budget-friendly floating shelf option:
https://go.shopmy.us/p-46399984

Just keep in mind that lighter shelves may not be as strong, so it really depends on what you plan to put on them.

Final Thoughts on Installing Floating Shelves with Tile Backsplash

If you’re adding floating shelves to a kitchen or kitchenette with a tile backsplash, I highly recommend installing the shelves first and tiling around them.

It makes the installation easier, gives you a stronger hold, and helps avoid drilling through tile later.

This shelf ended up being one of my favorite details in the kitchenette, and I love how it adds both function and style to the space.

More Garage Apartment Kitchenette DIY Projects

• Kitchenette Reveal (coming soon)
• Navy Cabinets Kitchenette
• Faux Brick Chimney Accent Wall
• The Easiest Wallpaper I’ve Ever Hung