Whether you’re looking to remodel your whole kitchen or simply want to update certain features, choosing the right backsplash for your home should be something you have a lot of fun with. Backsplash not only serves an important role in protecting your kitchen or bathroom walls from water damage or grease stains, but it also opens the door for you to express your creativity.
There are so many different materials you can choose from in addition to creating patterns and color schemes. You also get to choose if you want to use minimal backsplash and only cover the necessary wallspace behind the stovetop and sink area, or if you’d like to create a subway tile layout or cover the entire wallspace up to the ceiling. While what you choose is completely up to you, Schuler Kitchens & Baths has put together your ultimate guide of things to consider while choosing.
Glass Tile
Glass tile is a popular choice for a variety of reasons. Not only does it come in various colors so you can make your kitchen pop exactly how you like, but it also allows for a truly customizable look. Choose from subway tiles, various tints and colors, as well as mosaics, and other patterns. If you’re hoping to achieve a chic, modern look, glass tiles might be the way to go. However, it is important to keep in mind that glass tile is harder to cut than ceramic or porcelain tile, and depending on how extensive the pattern is you’re trying to create or how much you want to use, it’s not the most budget friendly option.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is one of the most popular options for backsplash due to its low cost and durability. Not only is ceramic tile more durable than porcelain, but it’s also easy to clean off and its low maintenance. If you want to use a lot of backsplash and install it up to the ceiling, ceramic tile is definitely a more affordable option. Unfortunately, no material is all around perfect. The con to ceramic tile is that it’s not the easiest to install. It’s vital to get the layout straight and to keep it straight as the compound dries. Unlike other materials, it’s not a dry installation. You’ll need wet mortar, plastic spacers to help keep it straight, and grout to set up.
Travertine
Do you want to transform your kitchen to create an old world appearance? Do you love the Tuscan-style kitchen look? Then travertine may be the backsplash material you’re looking for! Travertine is a beautiful material to work with that is completely natural and therefore comes in earth-based colors. Better yet? It’s easy to install. Travertine can be dry installed and it’s easy to cut. However, as the material is completely natural it does come with a few downsides. The material is not easy to clean if you want to maintain care. To avoid damaging the material, you’ll want to delicately apply an alkaline solution. It also will require continual care, such as needing to be resealed every two years. If you do break a tile, there’s no reason to fret. You should be able to easily find a replacement tile that’ll match the piece that broke.
Granite
Always a top contender for backsplashes is granite. It’s available in over 100 varieties providing you with a wide-range of choices in coloring and patterns. If you’re looking for a unique look that adds some personality to your kitchen, granite is a great option. This material is also strong and durable, so it’ll last over time, and it’s resistant to high temperatures and acidic conditions. If it were to damage, it can easily be replaced. It is important to keep in mind that while granite is super durable, it doesn’t seem to be stain resistant. In some instances, the granite can become stained, so you’ll want to clean up spills and splatter right away if you choose granite as your backsplash. This backsplash material also requires a little more maintenance than other options and needs to be sealed once a year.
There is no wrong choice when it comes to finding the backsplash that speaks to you. If you need help finding the one that speaks to you, the professionals at Schuler Kitchens & Baths are happy to help! Stop by our showroom in Allentown, PA to spark an idea or let us know what you’re thinking. We’ll help you find the backsplash that compliments your cabinets and countertops and fits your personality.
