Granite countertops with a backsplash are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. The combination of granite slabs for the countertops and tile for the backsplash creates a custom, high-end look that is both beautiful and practical. When selecting materials, homeowners should consider functionality, aesthetics, maintenance, and cost. With proper planning and design, granite and tile backsplashes can create a stunning focal point in any room.
Choosing Granite Slabs for Countertops
Granite is one of the most popular choices for countertops due to its natural beauty, durability, and variety of colors and patterns. When selecting granite slabs, homeowners should consider:
Granite Colors
Granite comes in a diverse range of natural colors from whites and creams to blacks, browns, blues, greens, reds, and more. Lighter granites like white fantasy or river white work well in both traditional and modern kitchens. Darker varieties like absolute black, midnight black, or emerald pearl are bold choices that make a dramatic statement. Multicolored granites with swirls of contrasting hues add striking visual interest.
Granite Patterns
The unique mineral composition of each slab produces distinctive veining and patterns. Flowing veins, spots, and flecks of color add to the one-of-a-kind look of granite. Large dramatic patterns or smaller detailed veins can complement different design aesthetics.
Granite Finishes
Granite slabs can be polished to a glossy shine or finished with a honed or leathered surface. Polished granite offers a classic, upscale look. Honed granite has a matte, softened finish. Leathered granite features a textured finish that feels less slippery. Consider the setting to choose the appropriate finish.
Granite Edges
Edges of the countertop can be finished with a standard eased edge, beveled edge, ogee edge, or custom edge profile. Decorative edges are a great way to add interest to the design. An eased edge has a rounded corner. A beveled edge is angled. Ogee has an S-shaped curve.
Granite Thickness
Standard thickness for granite countertops is 3 cm, a durable option for most applications. Thicker slabs of 4 or 5 cm are an upgrade that provides enhanced strength for heavily used surfaces. Thinner 2 cm slabs can work for applications like backsplashes.
Granite Maintenance
Sealing is required periodically to protect the stone and prevent stains. Granite is quite heat, scratch and stain resistant though proper care is still needed. Gentle cleansers and avoiding abrasives will keep it looking like new.
Selecting Backsplash Tiles
The backsplash protects the walls behind a countertop from splashes and stains. Backsplash tiles in natural stone, ceramic, glass or metal create an elegant accent that ties the whole design together. Consider these factors when selecting backsplash tile:
Tile Material
- Ceramic: Affordable option available in a huge range of colors, styles, finishes. Durable and easy to clean.
- Porcelain: Impervious to staining and water with near zero porosity. Durable, low maintenance option.
- Natural Stone: Elegant tiles in marble, travertine, slate, limestone, and granite. Stains require sealing.
- Glass: Sophisticated, shiny tiles perfect for modern designs. Can be prone to chipping if hit hard.
- Metal: Least porous option. Stainless steel, copper, tin, and more add contemporary flair. Prone to scratches.
Tile Shape
Common tile shapes include:
- Subway: Classic rectangular shape laid in a bricklike staggered pattern. Timeless, versatile choice.
- Mosaic: Small square or irregularly shaped tiles clustered together in sheets. Great for artsy, eclectic looks.
- Hexagons: Six-sided tiles fit together in a honeycomb pattern for visual interest and drama. Fun, creative option.
- Large Format: Oversized tiles make a bold statement and create fewer grout lines. Minimal, clean look.
- Penny Rounds: Circular tiles reminiscent of vintage penny mosaics. Retro vibe is nostalgic and charming.
Tile Finish
Tiles come in a variety of finish options:
- Glossy: Reflective, mirror-like surface adds glamour and depth. Highlights color and pattern. Shows scratches.
- Matte: Understated and modern smooth finish. Mutes color slightly for softer look. Hides signs of wear.
- Textured: Adds dimension and interest with varied surfaces. Grooves, ridges, bumps conceal dirt and water markings. Provides grip.
- Metallic: Shimmering metal and iridescent tiles lend a hint of glitz and sparkle. Eye-catching accent to enliven kitchen.
Tile Color
Select a backsplash tile that complements or contrasts the countertops. Granite with dramatic veining can pair well with a solid tile in a coordinating neutral hue. For granite with subtle patterns, choose a colorful mosaic tile that picks up one accent color in the stone. Tiles that contrast the countertop can create an inviting balance.
Tile Size
Standard backsplash tiles range from 1 inch mosaic tiles up to 4 or 6 inch subway tiles. Larger tiles have fewer grout lines for a cleaner look. Smaller tiles allow more creativity in patterns. Consider the overall look and the scale of the space.
Design Concepts for Pairing Granite and Tile
Thoughtful design allows homeowners to create a unified look using the natural beauty of granite countertops and the versatility of backsplash tiles. Consider these backsplash design concepts:
Matching Granite Countertop and Backsplash
Selecting granite slab backsplashes cut from the same piece as the countertops results in a seamless, continuous look. The veins and patterns flow smoothly across the surfaces for a sleek, tailored appearance. Using the same granite maintains the color scheme perfectly.
Coordinating Granite and Tile
Choose backsplash tiles that coordinate with the granite colors without directly matching. For example, pair an emerald pearl granite countertop with iridescent sea glass tile accents. Or complement black galaxy granite with dramatic marble subway tiles. This creates visual interest while maintaining harmony.
Contrasting Granite and Tile
Make the backsplash pop with tile colors and textures that contrast the granite countertops. Introducing contrasting materials adds design flair. Pair leathered black granite with a clean white subway tile backsplash or combine brown fantasy granite with vivid turquoise glass mosaic tiles.
Extended Height Backsplashes
Extending tile from the countertop to below wall cabinets creates a full backsplash that becomes a focal feature. This works well with subway, stacked bond and mosaic patterns. Full backsplashes prevent damage to the wall behind a frequently used surface.
Inset Designs
Inset decorative tiles like medalions, mosaics or lists into the middle of a full height backsplash. This adds personalized character and visual intrigue while allowing the main tiles to frame the design. Insets in contrasting colors or materials are an artistic touch.
Geometric Patterns
Laying the tile in geometric shapes like chevrons, diamonds, herringbones or tessellated hexagons adds flair to the backsplash design. These artistic arrangements make a striking statement. Combinations of varied shaped tiles create dynamic interlocking patterns.
Mixing Tile Materials
Using two different tile materials or colors together adds diversity to the backsplash aesthetic. Pair glass and ceramic mosaic tiles together in complementary hues. Or create bands of different colored subway tiles. Mixing materials keeps the look visually engaging.
Accent Stripes or Borders
Define the backsplash area with vertical or horizontal stripes in a contrasting color or material to the main field tiles. Thin grout lines accentuate the divider. Stripes and borders add definition along the edges and break up the space.
Niche and Shelving
Niches and shelving integrated into the backsplash are useful for storing and displaying items in the kitchen. Wall niches carved out of the backsplash tile provide compartments for stowing cooking oils, spices, condiments and more. Open shelving creates space to showcase decorative pottery or glassware.
Selecting a Contractor for Installation
Proper installation is crucial to ensuring long-lasting durability and meeting design goals. When hiring a contractor, check credentials and experience with natural stone countertops and tile backsplashes including:
- Experience with installing granite slabs and tiles without damaging the materials
- Knowledge of recommended products and methods for waterproofing, grouting and installation
- Samples of previous backsplash projects pairing granite and tile
- References from past clients
- Membership in industry organizations like the Natural Stone Institute
- Strong attention to detail and workmanship
- Ability to advise on design to select complimentary materials
- Willingness to provide maintenance instructions and tips for care
A quality contractor has artistry, technical skills, and expertise to install granite and tile that will look amazing together for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color backsplash goes best with black granite countertops?
Black granite countertops pair beautifully with backsplashes in lighter cream, white, or gray hues to create contrast. Metallic or iridescent glass tiles also complement the sophisticated look of black granite.
What backsplash looks good with Uba Tuba granite?
Uba Tuba granite has an exotic look with creamy background, dark wavy veins, and golden accents. Natural stone, ceramic, or glass backsplash tiles in soft whites, beiges, or gold tones match well. Subway tiles or mosaic patterns complement the visual interest of this granite.
What kind of backsplash should I use for white granite countertops?
White granite countertops look stunning with backsplashes in contrasting materials and colors. Bold varieties like glass or ceramic in navy, black, or dark grays make the white granite pop. Subway tiles, mosaics, or stacked patterns in these hues match perfectly.
Can you put tile straight on granite?
It is not recommended to install tile directly on granite countertops. Instead, tile backsplashes should be applied to the wall above the back edge of the countertop. This prevents damage that can result from sinking tiles into setting material on the granite surface.
Should backsplash match countertops?
Matching granite backsplashes directly coordinate with countertops for a cohesive look, but contrasting tiles can provide visual interest. The choice depends on the desired style. For a clean, uniform appearance, match granite countertops and backsplashes. For a more eclectic aesthetic, mix countertop and backsplash materials.
How high should a granite backsplash be?
A standard backsplash height is 4 inches above the countertop, but extending to below wall cabinets creates a full backsplash focal point. Full backsplashes range from 18-24 inches high. On walls without cabinets, limiting backsplash height prevents becoming an overwhelming surface covering.
Conclusion
The synergy of granite countertops and tile backsplashes results in kitchen and bathroom designs with natural beauty, versatility, and timeless elegance. Selecting slabs and tiles in coordinated colors and patterns allows homeowners to craft a custom look showcasing the unique visual impact of these materials. A quality installation ensures the finished project will withstand everyday use while retaining its aesthetic appeal. With proper planning, care, and creativity, the combination of granite and tile makes an unforgettable design statement.
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