A backsplash is an interior design element that refers to the section of wall directly behind a countertop, sink, or range in a kitchen or bathroom. The primary purpose of a backsplash is to protect the walls from splashes, spills, and splatters while cooking or cleaning. Backsplashes add visual interest and personality to a room while also serving the practical purpose of keeping the walls clean and stain-free.
Why Have a Backsplash?
There are several reasons why having a backsplash is recommended for countertops:
Protection from Spills and Splashes
The number one reason to install a backsplash is to guard the walls from inevitable splashes and spills. No matter how careful you are, food splatters and grease splashes will occur when cooking and cleaning dishes. Over time, these can stain and damage drywall or paint. A backsplash provides a protective barrier that is water-resistant and easy to wipe down.
Easier Cleaning
Backsplashes are designed to be easily cleaned. Their smooth and durable surfaces simply need a wipe down to remove grease, food debris, and water spots. This makes clean up after cooking or doing dishes much faster and more efficient. Trying to scrub stains off porous drywall or painted walls is difficult and time-consuming.
Visual Appeal
Backsplashes provide the opportunity to add visual interest and personality to a kitchen or bathroom. From sleek glass or tile to handpainted murals, backsplashes can be simple or make a dramatic design statement. They draw the eye and become a decorative focal point.
Increased Resale Value
Upgrading to a backsplash can increase the value and appeal of a home for resale. Backsplashes are expected in today’s kitchens and baths, so installing one can help attract buyers and boost the overall value of a home. Both realtors and appraisers view backsplashes as assets that offer a return on investment.
Backsplash Materials
Backsplashes can be crafted from a wide array of materials. The options provide design versatility and the ability to match any style or budget. Some top choices include:
Tile
Ceramic or porcelain tile is one of the most popular backsplash materials due to its durability, easy cleaning, and water-resistance. Tile comes in a vast array of colors, textures, shapes, and patterns to suit any décor. It provides a high-end, classic look. Tile backsplashes do require sealing and annual re-sealing.
Popular tile backsplash options:
- Subway tile – classic 3×6 rectangular glossy tiles
- Mosaic tile – small tiles lined up in decorative patterns
- Marble or granite tile – elegant natural stone looks
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel backsplashes have an ultra-modern, industrial chic look. The material is durable, easy to clean, and heat and water-resistant. Stainless steel provides a seamless, sleek appearance since no grout is needed. It can also tie in well with stainless steel appliances.
Glass
Glass backsplashes have a luminous, eye-catching style. The sleek glass panels are available in nearly any color or finish from bold hues to metallic copper or bronze. Glass backsplashes are very contemporary and give bathrooms and kitchens shine and depth. The panels install seamlessly for a clean, minimalist look.
Stone Slab
Natural stone slabs like granite, marble, or slate make a high-end statement. Large cut pieces of stone offer an earthy, organic feel. The thick stone provides a traditionally rugged yet sophisticated mood. Stone’s natural variations in veining and coloring ensure no two backsplashes are alike.
Painted Drywall
For a budget-friendly option, walls can simply be painted with semi-gloss latex enamel paint. While the least durable, a painted backsplash is affordable and easy to touch up or change. It’s a good choice for rental homes but will require frequent repainting.
Metal Tiles
Intricately patterned tin, copper, or nickel tiles infuse vintage character into a backsplash. The metallic shimmer casts reflections into the room. Metal tiles come in penny rounds, subways, and mosaics. They can create an old-world style or contemporary industrial look.
Wood
Using natural wood panels or reclaimed barnwood planking gives a rustic, cozy feel. Wood backsplashes pair well with traditional kitchens but offer an eclectic twist. They require extra sealing and maintenance compared to other materials. Distressed woods with cracks, knots, and imperfections have the most charm.
Design Tips for Kitchen Backsplashes
The style options for kitchen backsplashes are nearly endless. Here are some top design tips:
- Extend the backsplash up the entire wall rather than just a small strip for greater visual impact.
- Choose durable, water-resistant materials like tile, stainless steel, or glass since the kitchen backsplash takes the most abuse.
- Match metals throughout the kitchen for harmony – stainless steel backsplash with stainless appliances, bronze fixtures, and bronze backsplash tile accents.
- Contrast backsplash tile with countertops – light tiles with dark granite counters or vice versa.
- Coordinate backsplash colors with flooring choices for a pulled together look.
- Use mosaic tiles, irregular stone tile shapes, or small design insets as accents within a main field tile.
- Incorporate open shelving into the backsplash design to display glasses or cookbooks.
- Use the same backsplash tile as the shower in an adjoining bathroom to visually connect the spaces
- Frame the outer edges of a tiled backsplash with trim or accent tiles to give it a finished look.
Design Considerations for Bathroom Backsplashes
Like kitchens, bathrooms benefit greatly from backsplashes in terms of cleanliness and style. When designing a backsplash for a bathroom, consider the following:
- Use water-proof, moisture-resistant materials since bathrooms have high humidity. Tile, glass, and stainless steel are excellent choices.
- Extend the backsplash all around the vanity sink and mirror to protect the walls from splashes.
- Coordinate with the colors and materials used on the shower or tub surround. Frameless showers match well with full glass backsplashes.
- Accent colors can come from towels, rugs, shower curtains and other bathroom accessories. Don’t be afraid to use bold colors.
- Listello border tiles used vertically can frame mirrors or vanities for a statement detail.
- Natural stone mosaics can mimic the beauty of a waterfall with blues, grays, and creams.
- Set rectangular subway tiles diagonally or in a herringbone pattern for visual interest.
Height and Dimensions
While backsplashes can extend from counter to ceiling, typical height dimensions are:
- Kitchen backsplashes – 4 inches to 1 foot above countertop level
- Bathroom backsplashes – 3 inches to 1 foot above vanity counter level
- Island backsplashes – Since they don’t adjoin walls, island backsplashes are often set at 12-15 inches high
Standard backsplash dimensions allow plenty of protection from splashes while also allowing room for decorative wall items, artwork, mirrors or display ledges.
Full floor-to-ceiling backsplashes make a bold statement but limit potential wall decor options. The full backsplash can also make a room feel more closed in.
When backsplashes meet the undersides of wall cabinets, extra caulking and sealing is needed to prevent leaks and moisture damage.
Cost of Backsplashes
The cost of a backsplash is determined by the size of the area being covered and the materials used. Here are some typical price ranges:
- Ceramic or Porcelain Tile – $5 to $20 per square foot installed
- Glass Tile – $15 to $30 per square foot installed
- Stainless Steel – $50 to $100 per linear foot installed
- Granite Slab – $50 to $100 per square foot installed
- Marble or Travertine – $40 to $100 per square foot installed
- Tin Tile – $5 to $20 per square foot installed
- Painted Drywall – $.50 to $1 per square foot
Proper preparation, quality materials, specialized tools, and professional installation will be on the higher end of these ranges. DIY installations can significantly reduce costs but require expertise.
Factors like installer fees, backsplash size, accent borders, niche features, special tile shapes, and gradations in materials meaningfully impact the final price.
Should a Backsplash Match Countertops?
The decision of whether to match a backsplash perfectly with countertops comes down to personal preference. Here are insights on both approaches:
Coordinated Backsplashes
Many designers recommend selecting a backsplash tile or color that coordinates well with the counters but isn’t an exact match. Varying the textures and tones slightly adds visual interest. If countertops are neutral, the backsplash can be a venue for a pop of color that ties in cabinetry or artwork.
Matching Backsplashes
Matching backsplashes seamlessly unite with countertops for a cohesive, monochromatic look. The lighter countertop stone will flow right into a backsplash of the same slab or tiling. Matching materials minimizes visual distractions and gives an ultra-smooth appearance. For resale, matching backsplashes and counters are expected.
Neither approach is right or wrong. The choice depends on the overall kitchen or bathroom design style. Coordinate backsplashes with other finishes for a more eclectic look or match for a streamlined, integrated appearance.
Backsplash Ideas with White Countertops
White or light countertops pair beautifully with almost any backsplash style. Here are some top white countertop and backsplash combinations:
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles have a timeless look. Rows of glossy white tiles create a clean, bright backsplash that matches white countertops seamlessly. Add in a few rows of subway tiles in gray, black or blue for a subtle pop of color.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel backsplashes have a very contemporary feel against bright white countertops. The contrast of the crisp white against the shiny metal looks modern and elegant. Stainless backsplashes also practically conceal fingerprints and splatters.
Stone Mosaic
An organic stone like marble, travertine or limestone crafted into a mosaic pattern adds natural grey, brown and cream softness against crisp white counters. Stone mosaic backsplashes complement the movement and veins of natural quartz countertops.
Hexagon Tile
For a unique geometric look, hexagon tiles in black, gray or navy blue make the backsplash pop against white counters. The hexagon shape can be creatively arranged in patterns adding depth to the backsplash.
Glass Sheet
Seamless sheets of glossy colored glass like emerald green, sapphire blue, or bronze add a luminous shine against bright white countertops. The color glows and catches the light. Frameless glass backsplashes beautifully match solid surface white counters.
Wood Planks
The contrast of natural wood grain against pristine white quartz countertops andcabinetry creates lively contrast. The organic wood draws the eye while the white anchors the space. Distressed wood planks add casual charm.
Backsplash Ideas for Granite Countertops
Earthy granite countertops pair well with backsplashes that connect to the stone’s natural coloring. Here are top backsplash ideas for granite:
Tumbled Marble or Travertine
Small marble or travertine tiles tumbled smooth have similar granular patterns as granite slabs. The tiles come in soft whites, grays, tans and browns that blend with the stone. A simple bricklay pattern of small tiles complements the granite.
Ombre Glass Subway Tile
Clear glass subway tiles graduate from white at the countertop into deeper hues of gray, blue, green or taupe at the top. The ombre mirrors the variation in granite colors for a unified look. The glossy glass tiles also contrast the matte granite texture.
Mesh Penny Tile
Real pennies aren’t practical for backsplashes but penny round tiles replicate that mosaic look. Tiles in mesh sheets make installation easier. Coppery, bronze and rust colors in the tiles pick up on the metallic flecks often found in granite.
Honed Stone Mosaic
Mosaics using natural stone like marble or travertine that is honed for a matte finish blends seamlessly with granite’s texture. The small stone tiles mirror the look of a river rock formation and granite’s natural veining. Keep grout thin.
Brick Pattern or Offset Subway Tiles
Stacking subway tiles in an offset bricklay pattern adds clean lines and complements granite’s visual movement. Match subtle colors in the granite like tan, brown, burgundy or black for tile accents. Brick patterns add handmade artisan texture.
Unique and Creative Backsplash Ideas
For one-of-a-kind backsplash looks, think beyond basic tiles. Some creative backsplash ideas include:
Antique Mirrors
Covering a wall in framed antique mirror tiles embellished with metal accents creates a glamorous statement backsplash. The mirrors cast reflections to visually enlarge and brighten kitchens.
Laminated Photography Prints
Print and laminate your own photography onto glass sheets or acrylic panels for a personal backsplash that displays cherished memories and images. Travel photos, nature scenes and family photos can all inspire.
Patterned Wallpaper
Use sheets of wallpaper with bold prints, like graphic black and white or floral designs, to craft a backsplash that really stands out. Many wallpaper patterns have a plastic coating and wipeable finish.
Painted Wood Panels
Personalize a backsplash with wooden boards painted in any color or pattern the imagination can dream up. Handpaint messages, shapes or designs. Painting the wood panels seals them from splashes. Change up the art whenever inspiration strikes.
Metallic Beadboard
Beadboard panels add a cottage charm to backsplashes. For extra radiance, paint the recessed board grooves in metallic silver, gold or copper. The sheen plays off kitchen and bathroom lighting.
Faux Brick or Stone
Brick or stone vinyl wall stickers applied to a backsplash imitate an authentic old-world look with none of the weight. Faux brick backsplashes warm up contemporary spaces. Use large-scale stone sticker patterns for a convincing real stone statement.
Backsplash Maintenance Tips
To keep backsplashes looking like new and maximizing their protective powers follow these care tips:
- Seal natural stone tiles and grout every 1 – 2 years, especially in bathrooms due to moisture.
- Use a gentle cleaner designed for natural stone or glass backsplash materials. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Always use a soft sponge or cloth to clean. Avoid abrasive scrub brushes or pads.
- Rinse backsplashes well after cleaning to remove any soapy residue.
- Consider applying a sealant or protectant that repels water, grease, and stains, making backsplashes easier to clean.
- Immediately clean up any food splatters or spills to prevent staining, especially with porous materials like natural stone.
- Take care not to nick, ding, or crack fragile glass backsplashes. Handle with care during cleaning.
- Check for any loose or missing grout around tile backsplashes and re-grout as needed to prevent damage.
- Use painter’s tape and drop cloths when painting near a backsplash to prevent marking or splattering the surfaces.
Backsplash FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about backsplashes:
How do I cut tile for fitting backsplash edges and corners?
Use a wet tile saw or manual tile cutter to accurately cut tiles to fit around outlets, corners, and ends. Tap edges with a rubber mallet to score and break tiles. For small custom cuts use a grinder or nipper. Apply a quick-drying latex modified thinset mortar to the difficult areas first so tiles adhere better.
Can backsplashes be installed on top of existing tile or backsplashes?
Adding new backsplash materials over existing tiled backsplashes is not recommended. The layers can separate over time leading to cracks and damage. It is best to remove old backsplashes completely before installing new materials.
Should backsplashes end at cabinetry or extend up the wall a bit?
For a finished integrated look, backsplashes should end right where wall cabinets begin. This allows cabinets to fully sit flush against the backsplash. Optional accent tiles can extend up a few inches above cabinet tops.
How do I remove stubborn hard water stains from glass backsplashes?
Hard water spots on glass backsplashes can be removed with white vinegar or ammonia-free glass cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads. Go lightly and let the cleaner sit before gently wiping. Scrape off stuck-on deposits carefully with a plastic scraper before spraying more cleaner.
Why is my tile backsplash popping off the wall?
If backsplash tiles become detached from the wall surface it is likely an issue with inadequate prep or adhesion materials during installation. Removing all the tile and re-installing with thinset mortar or construction adhesive which fully penetrates the tile and wall surface will remedy.
Conclusion
Installing a stylish, functional backsplash behind countertops is one of the best investments that can improve any kitchen or bathroom. With the myriad backsplash materials and designs available, you can find options to match any décor. While tile may be the most popular backsplash choice for its classic beauty and durability, unique materials like glass, metal and wood provide contemporary flair.
Carefully consider your own lifestyle needs along with the current design trends when planning a backsplash. Coordinate with countertop and cabinetry choices for a cohesive look. A backsplash not only prevents costly damage from inevitable splashes and spills, but becomes a focal feature that gives rooms extra visual appeal. With proper care and maintenance, backsplashes stay looking pristine while making clean-up after meals and bathing a breeze.