Instantly Modernize Your Kitchen With Tile Above Cabinets
Is your kitchen looking tired and dated? Installing tile above your kitchen cabinets is an easy DIY project that can instantly give your space a modern facelift. With so many stylish tile options to choose from, like sleek glass, rustic ceramic, or eye-catching mosaic, you're sure to find a look you love.
Tiling above cabinets serves both form and function. Visually, it creates a focal point and brings color, texture, and personality to your kitchen. The backsplash also protects your walls from splatters, grease, and moisture. Read on to learn all about the benefits of tiling above cabinets and how to make this transformative update.
Types of Tiles For Above Kitchen Cabinets
When selecting tile, consider the overall look you want to achieve. Choose materials and styles that coordinate with your cabinetry and counters for a cohesive aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular options:
Ceramic Tile
A classic choice, ceramic tiles come in a vast array of colors, sizes, shapes, and textures. Glass-glazed ceramic provides a shiny, sleek finish that's easy to wipe clean. Unglazed natural terracotta tiles offer an earthy, textured look. Beyond white subway tiles, consider bold patterns or contrasting colors set in a herringbone design over cabinets.
Pros: Durable, affordable, easy maintenance
Cons: Prone to cracks and stains over time
Glass Tile
From translucent to opaque, glass tile gives a modern, stylish look. The sleek, reflective surface comes in an array of hues from clear to vibrant colors like emerald or sapphire. Use smaller mosaic glass tiles to create an artsy kitchen accent wall above cabinets.
Pros: Reflective sheen, variety of colors, easy to clean
Cons: More expensive, can scratch or crack
Metal Tile
For contemporary industrial flair, metal tiles like stainless steel, copper, and tin are ideal over cabinets. The bold, neutral hue of stainless steel pairs well with any color scheme. Copper and tin add a rustic, vintage vibe. Use metallic mosaic tiles sparingly as an eye-catching backsplash focal point.
Pros: Durable, modern aesthetic
Cons: Scratches show, higher cost
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tiles use small uniform tile pieces to form an intricate image or pattern. Vintage-inspired mosaics transport your kitchen back in time. For the artistic, mix glass, ceramic, and stone mosaic pieces in geometric shapes or nature motifs.
Pros: Creative, artistic element
Cons: Difficult installation, grout maintenance
Design Tips and Ideas For Tiling Above Kitchen Cabinets
To make the most of your new tile backsplash, consider the following design factors:
Selecting Tile Color and Pattern
Determine the overall look and feel you want - modern, rustic, traditional. Coordinate tile colors with your cabinetry for a unified, cohesive style. Contrast natural stone tiles with glossy cabinets. Solid tiles keep the focus on cabinet colors while patterned tiles add vibrancy.
Incorporating an Accent Strip vs. Full Backsplash
For maximum visual impact, take your tile backsplash all the way up to the ceiling. If you're looking for a subtle change, try a thin 4-6 inch accent strip along the top of the cabinets. This backsplash "fringe" adds a pop of color without overpowering the space.
Extending Backsplash to Ceiling vs. Partial Height
While partial backsplashes are most common, extending tiles to the ceiling makes a dramatic statement. It works well with high ceilings and makes rooms feel brighter and airier. Bold colored glass or intricately patterned tiles suit this full-height look.
Mixing Tile Materials and Styles
Don't be afraid to get creative combining different tile materials like metallic and ceramic or handmade and porcelain. Contrasting sizes like subway and mosaic can make the design more dynamic. Just be sure to coordinate colors and finish.
Installation Tips For Tiling Above Kitchen Cabinets
Installing a tile backsplash is very doable as a DIY project. Here are some tips to make it go smoothly:
- Prep the surface by cleaning cabinets and filling any holes or cracks with caulk
- Use the appropriate thinset adhesive for your tile material
- Carefully cut and fit edge and corner pieces
- Apply grout between tiles for a finished look
For first-timers, have a pro install to ensure it's done properly. Be sure to seal and maintain your grout over time.
The Cost of Adding Tile Above Kitchen Cabinets
From DIY to hiring a pro, cost varies based on factors like:
- Tile material - ceramic is most budget friendly vs. stone or glass
- Project size - backsplash size and ceiling height
- Professional installation fees if not DIYing
Overall, tiling over kitchen cabinets runs $5-25 per square foot installed. An accent strip could be a few hundred dollars while a full ceiling-height backsplash could be $2,000+. Shop sales and budget tile to save.
Installing a stylish backsplash over your kitchen cabinets instantly modernizes your space. With so many tile options, you can easily create a focal point that reflects your personal taste. For a quick DIY project or hiring a pro, a new backsplash above cabinets protects your walls and makes cooking and cleaning easier too.
Ready for a kitchen update? Visit our showroom or contact us today for a free design consultation. We'll help you select beautiful, quality tiles tailored to your unique style.