A full-height quartz backsplash offers an elegant and luxurious aesthetic for any kitchen or bathroom. Quartz slabs allow you to install backsplashes that extend from countertop to ceiling in a seamless, stylish design. With the durability and low maintenance of quartz, a full-height backsplash is a wonderful way to add luxury and beauty to your home.
Benefits of a Full-Height Quartz Backsplash
Choosing a full-height quartz backsplash offers many advantages:
Aesthetics
The sleek, modern look of a full-height quartz backsplash makes a dramatic statement in your kitchen or bath. The minimal grout lines and continuous surface provide a upscale, polished appearance. You can select from many colors and patterns to perfectly match your countertops.
Durability
Quartz is non-porous, stain resistant, and withstands heat, scratches, and chips. This makes it ideal for heavy use areas prone to splashes like behind sinks and stoves. A full-height backsplash will maintain its beauty for years to come.
Easy Maintenance
Unlike tile, quartz requires very little maintenance other than occasional cleaning with soap and water. No need for re-grouting or sealing. Your backsplash will stay looking fresh and new with minimal effort.
Value
Adding a full-height quartz backsplash can significantly increase the value of your kitchen or bath. It provides a high-end, designer look for less than many other backsplash materials.
Design Options
One of the best features of a full-height quartz backsplash is the wide variety of design options available.
Colors
Quartz comes in every color imaginable from vivid brights to natural stone hues. A neutral palette adds an airy, open look while bold colors make a dramatic statement.
Patterns
Choose from quartz with subtle patterns or large-scale visuals. Veining mimics natural stone while aggregates and flecks add dimension. Geometric patterns in on-trend designs can be very striking.
Finishes
Matte finishes minimize glare in busy kitchens. Glossy, polished quartz adds shine and sparkle. You can even mix finishes for contrast.
Lighting
Ambient lighting on a full-height backsplash highlights the color and pattern. For extra drama, install LED strips or sconces.
Mix and Match
Get creative by mixing quartz slabs with glass or ceramic tile. Frame the quartz with a subtle coordinating mosaic or listello.
Quartz Backsplash Installation
Installing a full-height quartz backsplash takes careful planning but is worth the effort. Here’s an overview of the process:
Select Your Slabs
Work with your fabricator to select slabs with consistent patterning. Plan the layout to minimize seams and joints for best visual flow.
Measure Carefully
Precise measurements are crucial, especially around windows, outlets, and other obstacles. Leave room for appliances and fixtures.
Cut Outlets
Mark and cut out all openings for electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures. Use diamond-tipped hole saws.
Create Supports
Secure horizontal support bars and ledgers to firmly anchor the backsplash to the wall.
Prepare the Surface
Clean the wall thoroughly and apply primer. This ensures proper adhesion. Level any uneven areas.
Apply Adhesive
Use a notched trowel to spread a thin, even layer of quartz adhesive on the back of the slabs and wall.
Install the Slabs
Carefully lift and place the quartz slabs against the wall. Use shims to level. Apply even pressure for solid contact.
Finish the Edges
Cut and polish the top and side edges for a finished look. Use trim or edging at corners or open ends.
Grout the Seams
Use colored sanded caulk between slabs to match the quartz. Neat, consistent grout lines give a seamless look.
Seal and Clean
Remove any excess caulk and grout with a damp sponge. Use a sealant to protect the surface.
Maintaining Your Quartz Backsplash
Caring for your quartz backsplash requires minimal effort:
- Clean often with a mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Blot spills quickly to prevent stains. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
- Re-seal every 1-2 years with an approved quartz sealant for added protection.
- Avoid exposing the backsplash to harsh chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the quartz. This prevents deep scratches to the surface.
With proper care, your full-height quartz backsplash will stay looking new and elegant for many years of daily use. The durability, ease of maintenance, and stylish appearance make a full slab backsplash a worthwhile investment.
Stylish Full-Height Quartz Backsplash Ideas
If you’re considering a full-height quartz backsplash, there are many stunning design options to inspire you. Here are some of the most elegant and luxurious looks:
Modern White
A sleek white quartz backsplash provides a light, airy feel. The crisp, clean lines exude modern minimalism. White quartz is brilliant for contemporary or industrial designs.
Modern white full-height quartz backsplash. Image from HGTV Magazine.
Bold Contrast
Make a dramatic style statement by pairing vivid quartz colors with white countertops and cabinetry. The bold backsplash commands attention.
Navy blue quartz backsplash with bright white kitchen. Image from Jennifer Ott Design.
Natural Neutrals
Warm beige and taupe quartz slabs mimic the look of natural stone. The organic tones blend beautifully in rustic or farmhouse kitchens.
Soft neutral quartz backsplash. Image from Studio DB Design.
Geometric Impact
Make a bold geometric statement with a patterned quartz backsplash. The dynamic shapes and lines energize modern and transitional spaces.
Geometric quartz backsplash design. Image from Home Polish.
Luxurious Marble Look
Elegant quartz with veining and swirls resembles luxurious marble. The upscale look is stunning yet without the high maintenance.
Marble-look quartz backsplash. Image from Design Gallerie Kitchen & Bath.
The design possibilities are endless with full-height quartz backsplashes. Choose a look that matches your style, from classic white to exotic patterns. Consult with experienced designers to create your dream aesthetic.
Popular Brands of Quartz for Backsplashes
Many excellent quartz manufacturers offer products well-suited for backsplash applications. Here are some of the top brands to consider:
- Cambria – Made in the USA, Cambria offers a wide array of colors and styles. Their quartz is durable and heat resistant.
- Caesarstone – A pioneer of quartz surfaces, Caesarstone is known for innovation and quality. Great for contemporary designs.
- Silestone – With over 90 colors and textures, Silestone gives you many beautiful options to choose from.
- Viatera – Subtle veining and polish options make Viatera a popular brand for backsplashes. Durable and low maintenance.
- LG Viatera – This brand offers the look of natural stone with cutting edge technology and performance.
- Quartz Master – Budget-friendly Quartz Master provides quality full slabs perfect for backsplashes. Made in the USA.
- MSI Q Premium – Vibrant colors and unique patterns are available with MSI’s premium quartz line.
- Corian Quartz – DuPont developed this brand to offer natural quartz surfaces in many contemporary styles.
Be sure to order slabs from the same lot to ensure consistent color and patterning. Consult your local quartz fabricator for pricing and available inventory.
Cost to Install a Full-Height Quartz Backsplash
The investment for a full-height quartz backsplash varies based on the size of your space and the materials selected. In general, expect costs between $50 to over $100 per square foot installed. Factors affecting the price include:
- Quartz type – Basic solids are most affordable. Premium brands and exotic patterns cost more.
- Backsplash size – Price is calculated by the square footage required including all cutouts. More surface area equals higher cost.
- Edge treatments – Decorative edges and trim accents increase the installation time and labor.
- Adhesives and grout – Specialty quartz adhesives average $100 per gallon. Quality grout improves durability.
- Fabrication – Experienced quartz fabricators charge more but provide a higher quality end result.
- Installation – Complex installations with many seams or electrical cutouts take more time which adds cost.
- Accessories – Under-cabinet lighting, outlets, and fixtures also impact the total price.
Although a full-height quartz backsplash represents a significant investment, the dramatic impact and luxury aesthetic enhance the value of your home.
Should You Install It Yourself?
Installing a full-slab quartz backsplash is an advanced project best left to professionals. However, for skilled DIYers willing to take the time, it is possible as a do-it-yourself project. Here are some tips:
- Have all needed materials ready – quartz slabs, adhesive, grout, tools, and reinforcements. Renting a slab lift is advisable.
- Measure surface area and order slightly more quartz than needed to allow for mistakes and cutoffs.
- Carefully plan the layout and number of seams. Minimize corners and irregular cuts.
- Cut outs for outlets and fixtures must be very precise. Use hole saws, not hammers or chisels which can crack quartz. Practice first on scraps.
- Work slowly and methodically. Quartz slabs are heavy and can crack if handled wrong. Get helpers since the panels require two people.
- Allow enough time for adhesive curing before grouting or making countertop connections.
- No short-cuts on safety – wear eye and ear protection, gloves, closed-toe shoes, and long sleeves.
For best results, hire a professional installer experienced in quartz backsplashes. Skilled fabricators have the tools and expertise to properly cut, polish, reinforce, adhere, grout, and seal your new backsplash. Although hiring a pro costs more upfront, you’ll avoid headaches and have a higher quality finished project.
Enhance With Coordinating Details
To take your full-height quartz backsplash to the next level, incorporate some of these luxurious design details:
Ornate Backsplash Trim
For a framed look, add raised molding that matches your cabinetry finish along the top and sides. Decorative corbels at the seams impart high-end style.
Full-height quartz backsplash with ornate trim detail. Image from Designs by Donna Christine.
Undercabinet Lighting
Install LED strip lighting underneath upper cabinets to beautifully illuminate and accent your stunning backsplash. Use tape strips for quick DIY installation.
Polished Side Returns
Add side panels of quartz along adjoining walls. Having the quartz return back along the sides extends the sleek, upscale look.
Decorative Backsplash Niche
Frame out a recessed niche within your backsplash for display shelves, vases, art, or accent lighting. This focal feature adds interest and dimension.
Metallic Accents
Incorporate gold, silver, copper or other metal accents for a dash of glam. Hardware, sconces, shelf brackets and trim in metallic finishes beautifully complement quartz.
Take your full-height quartz backsplash to the next level with special touches like decorative trim, niche shelving, undercabinet lighting and metallic accents. Have fun designing a luxury backsplash that suits your unique style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Full-height quartz backsplashes are on-trend for good reason – they provide beauty, durability and ease of maintenance. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about installing a slab backsplash:
Is a full-height backsplash better than a partial?
The main advantages of a full-height backsplash are the seamless, uninterrupted visual and the added protection for walls. The sleek minimalist look is also very popular. However, partial backsplashes take less time, save money, and allow you to incorporate other materials like tile if desired.
What thickness quartz should I use?
Most quartz backsplashes are either 3/4″ or 1/2″ thick. Thinner 3/8” can also work for smaller spaces. Thicker quartz is sturdier for full-height applications. Go thicker rather than thinner if unsure.
Should I install the backsplash before or after countertops?
It is generally recommended to install countertops first, followed by the backsplash secured directly to the wall. This allows you to achieve a tight seamless joint between the two.
How is a full-height backsplash supported?
In addition to adhesive, full-height backsplashes require a grid of horizontal and vertical support bars attached securely to wall studs. This prevents sagging or separation over time.
How do I cut holes for electrical?
Use a diamond-tipped hole saw kit to cut circular openings for outlets, switches, and lighting. Make cuts carefully by hand, not with hammers or chisels which can crack quartz.
Is sealing required after installation?
Yes, apply a penetrating stone sealer to all sides and seams to prevent moisture intrusion and staining. Reapply sealer periodically.
With proper planning and installation, a full-height quartz backsplash makes a spectacular focal point that will provide timeless beauty in your home for decades.
Conclusion
A full-height quartz backsplash is a luxurious design choice that immediately elevates any kitchen or bath. The elegance of stunning quartz rising floor-to-ceiling in a sweeping clean line is undeniably beautiful. With myriad colors, patterns and finishes to select from, quartz offers endless possibilities to match your unique style. A full-height backsplash also provides maintenance-free durability and protection behind sinks, stoves, and prep areas where splashes occur.
Although installation has its challenges, the dramatic impact of a floor-to-ceiling slab backsplash makes it a worthwhile investment in your home’s beauty. With proper planning and an experienced installer, you can have a showstopping backsplash that looks sensational for years. Complement your elegant quartz with decorative moldings, accent lighting and metallic fixtures to highlight and enhance the design.
If you seek a backsplash that wows yet also withstands busy daily use, a full-height quartz slab is a perfect choice. Let the luxury, beauty and practicality bring you joy for years to come.
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