A kitchen backsplash is an important design element that can enhance the beauty and functionality of your kitchen. When paired with laminate countertops, the right backsplash can create a stylish, cohesive look while also protecting your walls from splashes and stains. There are many on-trend backsplash ideas that work beautifully with laminate countertops.
Benefits of Adding a Backsplash with Laminate Countertops
Adding a backsplash behind your laminate countertops provides both decorative and practical benefits:
- Protects walls – A backsplash guards the walls from water, oil, grease and food stains that can damage paint and drywall. This is especially important with laminate countertops which have seams that can allow liquids to seep through.
- Easy to clean – Backsplashes are designed to be easily wiped down, keeping your kitchen hygienic and clutter-free. Their smooth surfaces repel grime, liquids and debris.
- Visually expands space – Contrasting colors or textures behind the countertop make the space appear larger and more open.
- Adds style – A backsplash brings color, texture and visual interest to your kitchen decor. It ties the whole space together.
- Affordable update – Installing a backsplash is an easy and affordable way to update the look of your kitchen without replacing countertops.
- Increases value – An attractive, updated backsplash can increase the resale value of your home.
Popular Styles for Laminate Countertop Backsplashes
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles create a timeless backsplash that complements any countertop. The white color reflects light and makes the kitchen feel open and airy. Subway tile backsplashes have clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic that allows the countertops to take center stage.
Glossy finishes give subway tiles a contemporary vibe, while matte finishes have an older, vintage look. Add interest by installing the tiles in fun patterns like herringbone or staggered. Subway tiles are easy to install, readily available and budget-friendly.
Glass Tile
Glistening glass tiles in an array of colors, shapes and finishes bring drama and visual texture to backsplashes. Often arranged in mosaic patterns, glass tiles have a reflective, liquid-like look that pairs beautifully with matte laminate countertops.
Utilize glass tile accents behind the stove or sink while using more affordable ceramic or stone tiles elsewhere. This creates focal points without breaking the budget. Glass tiles are very durable, water-resistant and easy to clean.
Stone Tile
Backsplashes made of natural stone like marble, travertine, granite or slate mimic the veining and patterns found in nature, adding organic beauty to your kitchen. The earthy tones of stone tiles – tan, brown, beige, gray – are versatile and suit both traditional and modern designs.
Textural stone tiles work well with solid laminate countertops in complementary hues. Stone is naturally stain-resistant and durable, though porous varieties will need to be sealed periodically. There are many budget-friendly stone look porcelain and ceramic tiles too.
Metal Tile
For contemporary kitchens, metal backsplashes bring eye-catching brilliance and dimension. Stainless steel, copper, brass and nickel tiles have an industrial vibe. Use mosaic sheets of metal tiles or long thin metal strips to create dynamic focal points behind sinks or ranges.
Metal backsplashes have a very reflective surface that bouncing light around the kitchen, creating the illusion of a larger space. However, stainless steel fingerprints easily while copper and brass will patina or tarnish over time, adding an antique look.
Brick or Faux Brick
The time-worn, textural look of exposed brick lends backsplashes and countertops rustic charm. Authentic reclaimed brick has color variations and natural cracks that develop over time. Manufactured faux brick replicates this look at a lower cost.
Pair red, brown or grey brick backsplashes with black, white or wooden laminate countertops to achieve a cozy vintage or farmhouse aesthetic. Brick tiles are very durable and easily cleaned. Keep the rest of the kitchen décor minimal to avoid an overly busy look.
Patterned or Handpainted Tile
Make a bold decorative statement by installing patterned or handpainted ceramic tile backsplashes. Available in a diverse range of colors and prints – from Moroccan motifs to floral designs – patterned tiles lend artistic flair. For a more custom look, handpainted tiles can be specifically designed to match your kitchen’s style.
Pair patterned tiles with solid laminate countertops to anchor the space. Too much pattern can feel visually overwhelming. If using patterned tiles near a stove, select those with low-maintenance glossy coatings to stand up to cooking splatters.
Design Tips for Backsplashes with Laminate Countertops
- Match or contrast the color of the backsplash with your countertops and cabinetry. Using analogous colors (variations of one hue) creates a cohesive look.
- Natural stone or wood laminate countertops often look best with subway tile backsplashes.
- White and light-colored backsplashes make small kitchens feel more open and airy.
- Darker backsplash colors like black, navy or forest green provide dramatic contrast in spacious kitchens.
- Extend backsplashes to at least 4 inches above the countertop to adequately protect the wall at the back.
- Full-height backsplashes covering the wall space between countertops and cabinets create a contemporary look.
- For a budget-friendly option, install tile only behind the stove and sink as accents. Use painted drywall elsewhere.
- Glass, metal or mosaic tiles work well behind cooktops to protect walls and reflect light.
- Backsplashes with visible grout lines should be sealed periodically to keep grout clean and prevent staining.
FAQs About Backsplashes with Laminate Countertops
Which is better with laminate countertops, ceramic or glass tile?
Both ceramic and glass tile can look beautiful with laminate countertops. Ceramic tile is more affordable, while glass tile provides more shine and visual interest. Consider glass tile accents surrounded by a more budget-friendly ceramic field tile.
What backsplash goes with black laminate countertops?
White, off-white, light gray, silver and stainless steel backsplashes pair attractively with black laminate countertops by providing contrast. Glass or tile with a shiny mirror-like finish also complements the matte black laminate nicely.
Do you have to seal backsplash with laminate countertops?
Porcelain and ceramic tile generally don’t require sealing, but natural stone tiles should be sealed to prevent staining and damage from moisture. Apply a penetrating sealer annually, or as needed based on usage. Glass tiles don’t need sealing.
What backsplash looks best with wood laminate countertops?
Natural stone or brick backsplashes match beautifully with the organic look of wood laminate countertops. Subway tile and patterned or handpainted ceramic tile also pair nicely with the warmth of wood.
Can you use wallpaper as a backsplash with laminate countertops?
Yes, wallpaper can be applied as a backsplash with laminate countertops. Choose wallpaper made specifically for kitchens that is durable and moisture-resistant, with a washable surface for easy cleaning. Remove wallpaper cleanly when it’s time to redecorate.
Conclusion
The perfect backsplash brings your kitchen countertops to life, whether you have chosen traditional laminate or something more modern. With so many gorgeous, budget-friendly backsplash products available, it’s easy to find one that expresses your unique style while protecting your investment in beautiful laminate countertops for years to come. Get creative combining colors, textures and materials to design a laminate countertop backsplash you’ll truly love.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.