Accent Your Granite Countertops With Backsplashes That Wow
Granite countertops bring elegance and luxury to any kitchen design. But the right backsplash can take your granite counters from drab to fab. With creative backsplash ideas, you can accent your granite in ways that wow.
Backsplashes protect the wall behind kitchen counters from water damage and stains. They also provide an opportunity to inject color, texture, and personality. From sleek subway tile to eye-catching glass mosaics, backsplash options abound.
Count on Granite Countertops
Granite remains a popular choice for kitchen countertops. Made from natural stone, granite is highly durable and resistant to scratching, heat, and stains. It also comes in a striking array of colors and patterns.
For countertops, you can choose a granite slab or granite tiles. Slabs provide a seamless look, while tiles allow more customization. Pros of granite include the stylish appearance, longevity, and resale value. Downsides are the weight and potential need for sealing.
Selecting Your Granite
When selecting granite, consider the color scheme and style of your kitchen cabinets and flooring. Neutral granite with swirls fits both light and dark cabinets. White and black granite pairs well with opposite cabinet colors. Gray, brown, and beige granites offer flexibility.
Look for granite with movement from dramatic veins, sporadic speckles, or a sleek look. Distinct granite patterns like waves, marbling, or sporadic dots add flair. Consistent tiny speckles or crystals create granite with a quartz-like appearance.
Fabrication and Maintenance
Hire an expert fabricator to precisely cut and polish your granite into a countertop. They'll also install it securely. Expect to seal granite every 1-2 years to prevent staining and discoloration.
Granite's hard surface resists scratches, stains, and heat. But take care to use cutting boards and trivets to prolong its beauty. With basic sealing and cleaning, granite counters offer years of performance.
Backsplash Materials and Styles
From natural stone to glass and metal, backsplash materials range from classic to contemporary. Simple subway tile or natural stone slabs offer an understated look. Mosaic patterns, glass, or penny tiles provide visual impact.
Consider a backsplash's durability, ease of cleaning, and cost. Ceramic or porcelain tile withstands heat and stains. Metal backsplashes add modern flair but may dent. Easy-to-clean glass tile resists moisture and grease.
Backsplash Design Inspiration
Matching your backsplash color to your granite can create a cohesive look. Contrasting colors are bold. For example, vivid glass tile complements black granite. Neutral granite allows colorful backsplash tiles to pop.
Subway tile in white or light gray suits most granite colors. Natural stone mosaic backsplashes coordinate beautifully with granite counters of the same material. Try mixing materials like combining subway tile with an accent of penny tile or glass.
DIY Installation Tips
Prepare the wall by cleaning and leveling any uneven areas. Use spacers between tiles for consistent grout line spacing. For easier handling, opt for smaller mosaic sheets or tile sizes.
Take your time to lay out the pattern and make precise cuts. Don't forget to seal and grout the backsplash once the tile adheres. Maintain the grout over time. With patience and care, you can install a backsplash to be proud of.
Complementary Combinations
Pairing the right granite and backsplash creates harmony in your kitchen. Match backsplashes and granite in tone and pattern for a cohesive look. Contrast them for drama.
Warm neutral granites like tan or beige suit white subway, marble, travertine, or glass backsplashes. Cool grays and blacks complement backsplashes with warmth like marble, wood, or terracotta.
Creative Touches
Amp up your backsplash design with creative touches. Use glass tile inserts, special tile shapes, or bands of accent tiles. Try a mix of materials like combining stone slate and metal mosaic tiles.
Extend your backsplash to the ceiling for a bold statement. Break up all-neutral backsplashes with pops of color. Add interest with texture variations and geometric or artistic patterns.
Finishing Touches
Partial backsplashes protect the wall behind counters and sink areas. Full height backsplashes make the biggest impact. For a modern look, opt for backsplashes without upper cabinets.
Stunning granite and backsplash combinations express your personal style. Visually balance lighter granite counters with darker backsplashes and vice versa. The design options are as unique as you.
With the right backsplash, you can accentuate the beauty of your granite countertops. Take inspiration from the latest trends and materials to create a focal point that wows.
For a kitchen remodel that maximizes your investment, bring your granite and backsplash ideas to life with the help of an experienced contractor. Transform your space from drab to dramatic.