Choose the Perfect Backsplash for Your Dream Kitchen
The kitchen backsplash is often overlooked, but it can completely transform the look and feel of your cooking space. With so many backsplash tile options to choose from like ceramic, glass, stone and more, how do you find the perfect one to match your dream kitchen design?
We'll also explore beautiful backsplash inspiration to spark ideas for your remodel. Let's dive in to create your dream kitchen's stunning focal point!
Backsplash Materials: Pros, Cons and Costs
The backsplash material you select impacts the overall look, durability and budget for your project. Consider the pros and cons of popular kitchen backsplash tile options.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles are classics. Available in endless colors, sizes, shapes and patterns, they offer versatility at a budget-friendly price point. Subway tile is extremely popular.
Pros: affordable, durable, easy to clean, variety of styles
Cons: prone to chipping and cracking
Cost: $5 - $20 per square foot installed
Glass Tile
From gleaming mosaic sheets to large-format metallic tiles, glass backsplashes add a glamorous, reflective touch. Careful sealing is required.
Pros: variety of colors and finishes, simple installation, moisture-resistant
Cons: sealing required, tiles can crack
Cost: $15 - 50 per square foot installed
Natural Stone Tile
Marble, travertine, granite and slate create an elegant, timeless look. However, stone requires yearly sealing.
Pros: luxurious look, heat-resistant, variety of natural patterns
Cons: heavy, sealing required, porous
Cost: $15 - 50 per square foot installed
Metal Tile
From copper penny tiles to stainless steel, metal backsplashes have an industrial vibe. Epoxy grout is recommended.
Pros: durable, heat-resistant, modern look
Cons: prone to scratches, epoxy grout required
Cost: $15 - 50 per square foot installed
Peel and Stick Tile
Budget-friendly peel and stick backsplash tiles offer a temporary solution. Easy to install yourself, they can be removed without damaging walls.
Pros: affordable, easy DIY installation, removable
Cons: less durable long-term than ceramic or glass tile
Cost: $5 - 10 per square foot
Backsplash Design Tips for Your Kitchen
Now that you know the most popular backsplash materials, how do you design it to perfectly complement your kitchen? Follow these tips.
Match the Style of Your Kitchen
Your backsplash should coordinate with your kitchen's overall design style. For rustic farmhouse kitchens, natural stone or reclaimed wood works well. In modern spaces, bold glass or metal tiles make a statement.
Coordinate with Countertops
Try matching your backsplash color with your countertop material for a cohesive look. With granite, choose an earthy backsplash tile that ties into the stone's natural hues. For white quartz, pick a crisp white subway tile.
Consider Cabinetry Colors
Aim for a backsplash that complements your cabinetry. Bold black, navy or green glass tile pops against white cabinets. Soft beige marble backsplashes blend nicely with espresso cabinetry.
Accent Appliance Finishes
If your appliances are stainless steel, bring in that metal look with copper or nickel backsplash tiles. For black appliances, black marble ledger panels create continuity.
Backsplash Size and Placement
Full backsplashes spanning the entire wall make a dramatic statement. More common is a 4-6 inch backsplash strip along the countertops. Make sure your backsplash doesn't interfere with the cabinetry opening.
Incorporate Patterns and Textures
Herringbone patterns, geometric shapes, and mixed textures provide visual interest. Try glossy penny tiles inside a subway tile frame, or combine stone and glass mosaic sheets.
How to Install a Kitchen Backsplash
While backsplash installation looks straightforward, first-timers may want to hire a pro. Here are a few things to consider if doing it yourself.
Allow ample time for thorough prep work. Properly clean and sand the installation area. Have materials like thinset mortar and grout on hand.
Carefully measure and mark the backsplash area so your tile layout is even. Use spacers between tiles for consistent spacing.
Tile cutting requires special tools like a wet saw. Watch videos to learn proper technique before attempting intricate cuts.
Seal natural stone backsplashes with a penetrating sealer annually to prevent staining and etching.
How Much Does a Kitchen Backsplash Cost?
From affordable peel and stick panels to luxury stone slabs, backsplash costs vary dramatically based on your material choice and installation factors.
Ceramic and porcelain tile ranges $5-20 per square foot installed. More premium glass and stone tile costs $15-50 per square foot installed.
Opt for smaller tiles to reduce material costs. Complex patterns, special cut tiles, and large format tiles increase labor time and expenses.
Backsplash Inspiration from Floor & Decor
Ready to shop for your backsplash? At Floor & Decor, you'll find today's most popular styles, shapes, and textures at budget-friendly prices. Get inspired by:
- Cool metals like stainless steel, copper, and brass
- Unique glass tiles and mosaics
- On-trend shapes like hexagons and chevrons
- Marble, travertine, granite, and quartz ledgers
Their knowledgeable sales associates can help you select the perfect tile for your project. With an unmatched selection of quality tile, Floor & Decor has everything you need to create your dream backsplash and kitchen.
With the right backsplash tile, you can take your kitchen design from drab to dramatic. Consider the materials, patterns, colors and textures that match your kitchen style. Coordinate with cabinetry, countertops and appliances for a cohesive look. For a stunning focal point that ties the whole room together, the perfect backsplash awaits at Floor & Decor!