How to pick a kitchen backsplash.
Hello everyone! This time we're here to talk about those beautiful tiles that complement your kitchen... That's right, the backsplash! Depending on your style, you can always make it look great and original (even simple and elegant), it can really express your personality. Backsplashes can give your kitchen that extra touch that's missing, you just have to learn how to pick it.
According to HGTV, the tiles you choose to spruce up the wall space between the countertop and cabinets and above the range, should showcase the color scheme and theme of your kitchen, whether contemporary or traditional. Ultimately -they say- that backsplash is a focal point. And it's an opportunity to be creative. And we couldn't agree more! There are so many options in tiles, that you can literally do as you please.
In this website, they talk about several tips for you to pick the perfect tile for your backsplash, and come up with a perfect result:
Match colors, mix materials:
Having a tough time deciding among tiles? Live with them for a while. Tape color and tile samples to the walls to see what they look like throughout the day as natural light changes. Choose one main color and a couple of accent colors to use throughout the kitchen, including the backsplash. Countertops often dictate the backsplash color and style. Also consider fixtures like your lighting and hardware.
Try mixing metallic tiles in different shades with various finishes, such as brushed stainless steel, oil-rubbed bronze or even an antique brass. By including small tiles of marble or granite, you can pull in the countertop color without being boring with a panel of granite that extends up from the countertop. As for glass tiles, check out some of the newer tiles with a bit of crackle or frosted finish.
Invest in the high-impact zone:
There is more square footage of wall space above the range and sink, so you can play with tile design. According to Van Deusen, that area gets a lot of visual attention. Consider a neutral field tile for the rest of the kitchen, then bring in a funky glass tile to create a showy centerpiece above the stove.
Don't be afraid to spice it up in this typically 2-by-3 foot area. Even as one of the larger swaths of tile space, it's still small. So if you choose a bold color or trendy tile pattern for this zone, you can always change it down the road without tearing out your entire kitchen backsplash. If you're looking for a bold idea, according to Van Deusen, back-painted glass in strong carrot orange is fresh but refined and works well in a contemporary kitchen.
Be budget savvy:
When on a budget, avoid trendy tile and revisit classic white ceramic that can cost less than a dollar per square foot. But don't skimp on the grout. How the tiles adhere to the wall is important, so make sure you get a nice grout.
Flexibility is important if you're working on a budget -you might not get the exact tile size or color or texture. Where are you willing to compromise? Choose based on priority.
If you need to cover lots of area, like an entire wall, you can add interest without emptying your bank account by opting for practical metal panels. Stainless steel sheets come in a variety of finishes. They are very practical durability -wise, but they are a little more challenging to keep clean.
Avoid common mistakes:
If you plan to order your own tile from a supplier, be sure to ask about these important components, suggests Stephen Kahn, president of Anchor Bay Tile in Phoenix, Ariz:
- Primary (field) tile should be thicker than decorative tile. Otherwise, you'll spend more money "building up" the wall so that the majority of your tile lies even with those few decorative pieces.
- Remember trim pieces: If you choose a beveled tile, you'll need a corner round trim piece (rather than a bullnose). Ask which trim and decorative moldings come with the tile -these pieces should all coordinate in glaze and thickness, and if you order them in separate batches, there could be discrepancies.
- Ask if the tile you want is in stock: "the economy has changed things in the tile industry, and when times were booming, companies were willing to stock more" Khan says. "Now, with inventory turning less, there are lead times out there.
Ask about wear and tear:
How easily can you clean the tile, and what is the best way to seal it? Ceramic tile doesn't need this extra step, but natural tile does if you want to maintain its appearance. "If the tile is stainless steel, find out if abrasives will scratch it, and I would suggest getting a grout additive and sealing the grout itself so it stays fresh and clean for longer" Van Deusen says.
Generally speaking, you can apply any type of tile to a backsplash as long as porous materials like bamboo and cork are sealed. "There are building codes that require a clearance between the range and the wall to protect any material" Khan says, "because of clearances and sealants, if anything gets splashed on the tile you can wipe it off".
Consider eco-friendly options:
Cork mosaic tiles are appropiate for walls or floors, and tiles made of 100% bamboo are sealed to create a backsplash that's warm yet contemporary. Recycled glass tile is durable, stain resistant and comes in a range of unique colors that result from melting and repurposing recycled glass. These tiles come in all sizes, from thumb-print sized mosaics to larger squares.
So, as you can see, it is possible for you to pick the perfect tile to get the backsplash of your dreams! All it takes is dedication, and these steps will help you express your personality into your kitchen.
