A backsplash is a focal yet functional part of a kitchen. Whether you’re renovating, building a new home, or designing a client’s kitchen, it’s easy to get bogged down in the number of choices available. Sure, you have a specific style you’d like to achieve, but there may be hundreds of different variations of it. We’ll highlight a few ways to narrow down your options and help you select the perfect kitchen backsplash to fit your specific needs.
Choosing the Right Backsplash Material
Many strive to strike a balance between a timeless, complementary aesthetic and durability when shopping for a kitchen backsplash. Since there are so many elements in your kitchen that must play together, keep in mind the different types of finishes and materials that currently grace your kitchen.
Here are a few common types of materials to choose from:
Natural Stone:
For those with stone countertops, it may be tempting to extend the earthy look up into a matching stone backsplash. Be careful with this approach, as it can feel very heavy and overwhelming depending on the stone. Consider a stone slab with beautiful veining for kitchens with minimal, modern features to create a striking focal point.
Porcelain vs. Ceramic:
Porcelain and Ceramic are similar aesthetically as they are both made from clay. However, porcelain is denser, making it more durable and resistant to moisture. So, depending on the backsplash placement, keep this in mind.
Glass:
Glass may seem like an attractive choice, but it is often omitted in the kitchen because it doesn’t sustain heat very well. It’s also a delicate material which means it can break off easily. If you’re looking for a very functional and durable backsplash option, glass may not be the best option.
Mosaics:
Most mosaic tiles are made from clay, ceramic, or porcelain and are typically smaller in size. Given the style and the unique look they create when placed together to form a backsplash, mosaics can run the risk of feeling very busy. However, it’s the perfect choice for creatives who want to establish a complex focal point for their kitchen that’s unique and eye-catching.
TIP: When choosing a backsplash, make sure it complements the countertop and other elements in your home like your fridge, oven, etc., to achieve a truly cohesive look.
Consider Durability
Think about your day-to-day needs when considering the durability of a backsplash option. Do you tend to be a bit messy when cooking, or are you typically clean and tidy? Most likely, you’ll want a tile that can be easily cleaned and maintained. Avoid finishes that easily show fingerprints and/or dirt. It’s also a good idea to further research the material so you can anticipate how it will wear over time.
Selecting The Right Grout
Grout can make or break your tile backsplash in more than one way. Choosing a darker grout with a lighter tile can make a backsplash look vastly different. Using white grout with lighter tiles will give your backsplash a seamless look and feel.
TIP: Remember that even though white grout is a popular choice, it’s harder to keep clean. A darker grout can be way more forgiving.
To learn more about our tile and stone products, feel free to schedule an appointment, join our text list, and/or join our mailing list. Looking for tile and stone inspiration? Peruse our inspiration gallery. For further questions about choosing the right type of backsplash for your project, please give us a call at 203.498.5181. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, Vimeo, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
