The kitchen backsplash is one of those things that define two types of people…those who notice the backsplash and those who don’t.
To be realistic, if you don’t notice your kitchen backsplash, it probably needs some help. Creating a beautiful backsplash is an easy and very noticeable part of home decorating.
The functional purpose is to seal the area between the wall and counter to prevent food, liquids, and grease from getting down behind the counter and to protect the back wall. Most basic Formica style countertops have a backsplash already attached as one piece. These look functional but provide little flare or style.
Most modern homes and remodeling projects have looked to make the kitchen counter backsplash not only functional, but also a standout decorative area of beauty and elegance to the kitchen.
There are many different types of materials you can use for a backsplash, making the possibilities of style, design, color, and texture almost endless. Let’s explore a few of the possibilities.
Ceramic Tile
Tried and true, the first step above the one-piece Formica. If you are not careful, this can be quite boring. One row of the same color four inch square tile shows little imagination and you will probably regret not spending more time on it. Using a flare for tile size, color, and design can make your backsplash very beautiful using ceramic kitchen backsplash tile.
Glass Tile
Using glass tile for your backsplash is a wonderful way to add color, depth, and brightness to your kitchen. Whether you use new or recycled glass, you will not notice the difference. Glass kitchen backsplash tiles usually come in sheets of small tiles adhered together, much the same way small ceramic tiles come. The glass comes in almost every color imaginable and display rich deep color. Glass tiles go up much the same way as ceramic tiles and can be trimmed very easily to fit anywhere.
Stainless steel or other metals
Using stainless steel, copper, or tin is also an attractive and durable material for use as a backsplash. With the popularity of stainless steel appliances as the current trend, a stainless steel kitchen backsplash provides a clean look that matches the home appliances. A stainless steel backsplash is easy to keep clean and will not corrode.
One word of warning when using stainless steel when all appliances are also stainless steel; the backsplash may overdo the stainless steel look and make the kitchen look sterile like a hospital.
Copper and tin also provide good alternatives but know that both will tarnish and will need to be cleaned with special cleaners designed for that metal.
Granite and other stone
One of the latest trends for the backsplash in recent years has been the use of stone. Stone such as granite, travertine, slate, and marble are being used in large pieces on the entire back wall area all the way up to the cabinets.
A stone kitchen counter backsplash can be more expensive, but has fewer seams and provides a rich look to your kitchen.
Basically, if you can imagine it, it can be done. Don’t let standards of fashion and form curtail your imagination. Your kitchen backsplash can and will reflect your personality of style and design.
There are many ways to spruce up the kitchen, to include kitchen cabinet refacing, countertops, flooring, and lighting. Explore what works best for you because you will see it everyday.