A Guide to Picking Your Kitchen Backsplash

Kitchen backsplashes are really the unsung heroes of the modern kitchen but they hardly ever receive the recognition that they deserve. In many instances during a kitchen remodel, backsplash tiles are usually an afterthought and the decision about which backsplash to pick is often left to the very last stage of the design process. Backsplashes, however, play an integral role in the overall design of the kitchen interior. Well designed and ornate backsplashes play the important role of complementing the interior of the kitchen, as well as the appliances that you may have. The choice about which backsplash tile to pick is very personal and individual so the selection process should be done with some consideration. If you are thinking about investing in a kitchen remodel, backsplash tile when combined with all other parts and areas such as the countertop, new cabinets, and brand new appliances can give your kitchen a completely different look at a far more inexpensive budget compared to what you would need to invest in a full-on kitchen renovation project.

Today, because of the rise in popularity of the kitchen backsplash, there are endless design options, patterns, and varieties to choose from which is a thing of beauty for all home décor enthusiasts. This level of diversity, from subway tiles to mosaic tiles means, that every backsplash tile design can be custom made to your specific instructions so that it can mesh marvelously with all the other components that you plan on using in your kitchen remodeling scheme. Because most people do not use their kitchens as regularly as they used to, backsplashes are now a design feature that is added to add glamour to the kitchen. The type of backsplash tile that you pick should be based on your overall budget and the number of times that you put your kitchen to use.

Remember that backsplash was created in the first place to keep splashing grease and water from staining the wall so if you cook often, you may want to pick a design that does not stain easily and one that is easy to clean. Here is how to pick a backsplash tile that works for you:

Backsplash tile material

When picking your backsplash tile material, consider picking a material that will serve you for years to come because you do not want to get stuck with a material that is trendy now but will go out of style in a few years.

Also, it is vital that you are honest with yourself about how much maintenance work you are willing to put into your new backsplash because some tiles do need more attention than others. Finally, try as much as you can to stick to your budget to ensure that the remodeling process is completed successfully.

Ceramic tile backsplash

Ceramic backsplash tile is a popular choice among individuals because it can be customized in so many different and unique ways. Basically, Ceramic backsplash tile can appear and look exactly as you want it to look because it can be manipulated easily. Newer trends include tiles with paintings, murals, and other decorated aspects. If you want a type that is easy to clean, spring for glazed tiles instead of the porous variety.

Glass tile backsplash

Glass tile is also popular because it tends to have an edgy and cool contemporary feel and look. Glass tile backsplash reflect light well and it can be just what you are looking for if you are interested in brightening up your kitchen. Glass is easy to clean and is non-porous so you never have to worry about staining it. Glass tiles are also available in many different colors, which means that you can tailor your backsplash depending on your vision or needs.

Granite tile backsplash

Granite tile backsplash is an expensive option because of its quality and its sophisticated appeal. If you are selling your home and want to increase its value, granite tile backsplash can help you increase the final resale price. Granite does not stain easily, but it has to be resealed to protect it from scratches or accidental damage. If you really want granite tile backsplash but are worried that you cannot afford it, consider investing in light-colored granite, which tends to be cheaper and less popular compared to dark colored granite.

Travertine Tile Backsplash

Travertine Tile Backsplash is created out of sedimentary stone and it tends to come in a pitted texture and a beige color. Travertine has a downright rustic and Old World look and feel that would be ideal for a Tuscan kitchen style.

Stone Veneer Backsplash

Stone veneer backsplash tends to be found in high-end homes because it is expensive to manufacture and even harder to install. Stone veneer is used in place of real stone because real stone is too heavy and harder to cut and shape. As such, do not expect to find endless options of manufactured stone veneer backsplash at your local hardware store. Please note that stone veneer is not often recommended as it tends to be porous and will absorb splatter and oils.

Laminate tile backsplash

In terms of finding the most affordable backsplash tile, laminate is the best options for anyone on a budget. New laminates can be designed to appear like anything that you want including wood, stone, tile, granite, and stone.

Backsplash tile color

When it comes to picking backsplash color, you as the homeowner have free reign to select what works best for your décor and kitchen design. A lot of individuals like to play around with color and the pattern but what you select is entirely up to you. Before you determine which color to use, first assess whether it will work with your countertops.

In many cases, the countertop is usually the focal point of the kitchen and the backsplash plays the supporting role that ties everything together. Whether or not you want your backsplash counter to match is a decision that is entirely up to you but you should try as much as you can to ensure that everything matches. Additionally, remember to take into account the color of the cabinets and floors to keep everything cohesive.

Backsplash Height

The Backsplash height is also a personal decision that has to be made based on your needs and wants. The position of the cabinetry is what determines the end point for many people but other people only like to use backsplash on the small space between the sink and the first shelf or cabinet. If you do not have cabinets above the sink or oven, then you can also extend the backsplash to the ceiling, which will act as the central point of your kitchen.

Backsplash tile patterns

Different types of patterns look good on different backsplash materials but the good news is that the design options for the patterns are endless and can be applied in any manner that you want. Arranging your tiles in an interesting pattern is a great way to add a subtle design to your overall decor.

Grout

Grout may not seem like an important decision, but it can make a world of difference in the final ap

pearance. Grout helps to lock in your tiles and give your backsplash a final and finished appearance. For instance, dark grout when used alongside white tiles can create a striking and remarkable impact. All in all, try and consider all the options available before you make your final choice.