October 17, 2022
10 Important Tips For a Stunning Kitchen Backsplash
The design is one of the most important aspects of any project, whether you are remodeling your home or building a new home from scratch. A kitchen renovation is the ideal opportunity to showcase your personal style and have fun with a variety of materials, designs, and colors available. It’s best to approach your kitchen design with functionality in mind as, after all, you will be using it.
A kitchen backsplash is something that you can get creative with, but why is it needed? From a practical point of view, it protects your wall from stubborn stains or messes, making it easy to clean. It is generally installed above the sink and stove.
With a tile backsplash in your bathroom or kitchen, you simply can’t go wrong. Keep reading for a summary of the general do’s and don’ts to help you achieve an ideal tile backsplash in your kitchen.
1. Do Take Your Budget into Consideration
Backsplashes are available in different materials, which come in at different price ranges. In general tiles and mirrors fall into the more affordable price class. You can decide on a ceramic tile for your backsplash installation, which is both lightweight and durable. Glass and stone tiles also work great, although they are a bit more costly. This material for your backsplash tile installation will allow you to go with brighter colors in your kitchen. You can also get tiles custom cut to fit other kitchen accessories like cabinetry or electrical outlets. Of course, this will add to the cost of the backsplash, therefore your budget needs to allow for this.
2. Do Be Sure to Take Accurate Measurements
Accurate measurements are important to allow for a fast and precise backsplash installation by the tiler. The tile contractors will be able to advise you on the amount of material you require based on your measurements and exact design. They will also take the cabinet height, border material or your choice of pattern into consideration. Taking accurate measurements will prevent the frustration and extra expense of having to purchase additional tiles if tile installers run out mid-way through the project.
3. Do Stick to The Recommended Grout Line Size
Follow the grout line size as recommended by the manufacturers. This will give your backsplash installation a professional and neat appearance. In order to make sure the overall design is symmetrical; tile installers make use of plastic tile spacers. The cleaning of cooking stains on your backsplash grout will be so much easier when spacers were used during the installation.
4. Do Tile the Wall Behind the Stove
Backsplash contractors recommend that you tile behind the stove as this will protect your wall from heat damage. Furthermore, it makes the inevitable cooking stains and grease so much easier to clean. Excessive oil or grease buildup around your stove can be a potential fire risk. Installing tiles will simplify the cleaning process and at the same time improve the safety of your kitchen.
5. Do Take Electrical Outlets into Account
Electrical outlets in general are not pretty. Yet they are crucial from a practical point of view, especially in modern kitchens that make use of a variety of electrical appliances. Functionality does not have to fall by the wayside in favor of aesthetics. Choose color electrical covers to match your backsplash. Backsplash contractors can also install pop-up outlets, leaving your backsplash free of wall mounted outlets.
6. Don’t Use Contrasting Grout Color on White Tiles
High contrast grout lines can look fantastic with some tiles, for instance black tiles with white grout. Keep in mind though that using high contrast grout with uniform tiles, something along the lines of subway tiles, will clearly show every little imperfection or lines that are the slightest bit uneven.
7. Don’t Use Textured Tile for Your Backsplash Installation
Although they have an intriguing appearance, textured tiles can be difficult to clean. Intricately textured tiles may need more frequent replacing compared to smooth tiles. This is mainly due to this type of tile being more prone to appear dirty or discolor over time with splatter and stains. Smooth tiles will simplify your life, whereas textured tiles should rather be used in your shower or walkway.
8. Don’t Combine Too Many Colors
Take the color scheme that you have decided to go with into consideration. For instance, if you have decided on white cabinets combined with stainless steel appliances, avoid adding another color in the mix. If you for instance now add a red backsplash, you will create restrictions on future decorating options. Choose something that goes well with the cabinets, countertops and appliances. Rather rely on decorations to add color and accents.
9. Don’t Choose a Busy Tile
The backsplash is one of the focal points on entry into the kitchen as it is at eye level. Rather keep it simple when choosing the right tile for your backsplash installation. A busy or elaborate design can be distracting and may overpower other areas of your beautiful kitchen. It can also make a kitchen look smaller and cluttered, which of course is not ideal.
10. Don’t Forget to Reseal Your Backsplash
The grout lines are porous, and this can get stained over time. You can avoid excessive scrubbing or eventually replacing the tiles by sealing your grout. Tile installers can take care of this and repeat this process every few years. Focus especially around the stove area, as this is where most of the heavy staining occurs.
In Conclusion
Keeping a few things in mind will make designing your lovely tile backsplash simple. Choose a tile that fits your budget and make sure to take accurate measurements. Adhere to the grout line size specifications and remember to tile behind the stove as well. Choose colors that complement your backsplash when it comes to electrical outlets. Or speak to your tile contractors about clever socket solutions.
Choose the right grout color for your unique tile installation, but keep in mind that high contrast tile grout colors can highlight the smallest imperfection. Keep cleaning simple by avoiding textured tiles. Keep your future decorating options open when deciding on a backsplash color scheme and avoid using too many colors. Consider whether the design is too busy or not. Don’t let your backsplash overpower the entire kitchen. Last but not least, routinely seal the grout to prevent greasy stains.
Contact Chicago Tile & Backsplash for more advice and tips on creating the perfect backsplash.
