Adding a backsplash to your kitchen can completely transform the look and feel of the space. But before taking on a backsplash project, it’s important to understand the costs involved so you can budget accordingly. Here’s a detailed look at what goes into backsplash installation and how much it typically costs.
What is a Backsplash?
A backsplash is a decorative, protective wall covering that is installed directly behind sinks, stoves, ranges, and other kitchen countertops. Backsplashes are typically made of tile, metal, glass, or other materials. They serve both aesthetic and functional purposes:
- Visually, backsplashes add personality, color, and visual interest to kitchen walls. They can complement your cabinetry, counters, and overall kitchen decor.
- Functionally, backsplashes protect walls from water damage, stains, and splatters from food prep and cleaning. They make walls much easier to clean.
Factors That Impact Backsplash Cost
Several factors determine the total cost of a backsplash installation project:
Material
The material you choose for the backsplash plays a big role in the overall cost. Some of the most popular backsplash materials and their typical price ranges include:
- Ceramic tile: $5 – $20 per sq. ft. installed
- Stone tile: $40 – $100 per sq. ft. installed
- Glass tile: $20 – $50 per sq. ft. installed
- Metal tile: $15 – $50 per sq. ft. installed
- Mosaic tile: $10 – $35 per sq. ft. installed
More expensive and specialized materials like natural stone, marble, and metal tile will be on the higher end of the price spectrum. Standard ceramic tiles tend to be the most budget-friendly option.
Labor
In addition to material costs, you’ll need to factor in labor charges for installation. This can add $5 – $10 per square foot depending on your location and the complexity of the project. Many tile installers charge an hourly rate of $50 – $80 per hour.
Layout
The amount of backsplash and the layout will determine how many total square feet you’ll need to cover. Large, uninterrupted expanses will require more tile and time to install. Intricate backsplash designs, patterns, borders, and accents will also increase labor time and materials needed.
Prep work
Proper prep work is crucial for a successful backsplash installation. Your installer may need to remove old backsplash tile, rework the drywall, or make other adjustments to get the wall ready for new tile. Any electrical or plumbing changes needed behind the walls could also add cost.
Accessories
Don’t forget small additional expenses like grout, thinset adhesive, tape, spacers, sealants, and trim pieces. While not hugely expensive individually, these items can add a few hundred dollars to the total project cost.
Cost to Install a Backsplash
Taking all these factors into account, a typical price breakdown for professional backsplash installation looks like:
- Low end: Approximately $10 – $20 per square foot for simple ceramic tile.
- Average cost: $20 – $40 per square foot for stone, glass, or mosaic backsplash tile.
- High end: $50+ per square foot for premium materials like metal tiles or natural stone slabs.
So for example, tiling a standard 4 ft x 3 ft backsplash area (12 square feet) could cost:
- Ceramic tile: $120 to $240
- Glass mosaic tile: $240 to $480
- Natural stone: $600 to $1,200
For the average kitchen backsplash of 30-40 square feet, total install costs often range from $600 – $1,600. But prices can go up significantly if using expensive designer tiles or handling complex layouts.
Additional Costs to Consider
Here are a few other potential costs to keep in mind with a backsplash installation:
- Removal of old backsplash: $2-$5 per square foot to demo and dispose of existing tile.
- Countertop alterations: Approximately $200-500 if counters need to be cut to accommodate new backsplash height.
- Backsplash design: Some tile showrooms charge $50-$150 per hour for design services if you want help choosing tiles.
- Grout sealing: $1-$2 per square foot for sealing grout after install. Highly recommended to protect grout from stains.
DIY Backsplash Installation
If you’re fairly handy and want to save on labor costs, a tile backsplash is a DIY-friendly project. The main requirements are some tiling experience and access to the right tools like a wet saw.
A DIY ceramic or glass tile backsplash install generally costs $5-$20 per square foot for materials. So in the example 12 sq ft backsplash above, your total DIY cost could range from $60-$240 vs. $600-$1200 to hire a pro.
Be aware that DIY backsplash projects take much longer. But if you have the skillset and time, it can result in significant cost savings.
Hiring a Backsplash Installer
Due to the specialized tools and techniques required, most homeowners hire a professional tile installation contractor for backsplashes. When getting quotes, ask potential contractors about:
- Pricing breakdown – Make sure you understand exactly what is included in their quote and what isn’t. Get a written contract.
- Experience – Ask to see examples of previous backsplash projects. Choose an installer who has extensive experience specifically with backsplashes.
- Certifications – Many states require tilers to hold a Tile Contractor license or pass an exam. Make sure yours is certified.
- Warranty – Reputable contractors should offer a warranty on both labor and materials. Be wary of extremely short or non-existent warranties.
Factors That Increase Backsplash Cost
Certain backsplash tile choices and custom designs will increase your overall installation costs. Some of the biggest budget-boosters include:
- Intricate patterns like herringbone layouts
- Mosaics or tiles with uneven shapes
- Small tiles that take more time and effort to install
- Niche or recessed shelving for storing spices and oils
- Border or accent tiles that introduce more complexity
- Tiles requiring special cutting like pebbles or penny tiles
- Seamless full-height backsplashes spanning multiple walls
Using a tile design specialist can help maximize visual impact while minimizing complicated cuts and installation work.
How to Save on Backsplash Costs
If your backsplash budget is tight, here are some great ways to save:
- Choose affordable ceramic, glass, or porcelain tiles rather than natural stone.
- Use a simple layout like a basic grid pattern to reduce cuts.
- Install a small, focused backsplash over the stove only rather than full walls.
- Limit accents and borders which add more tile pieces.
- Do the demolition and prep work yourself.
- Shop discount home improvement stores for tile deals.
- Use neutral grout color to avoid staining and frequent grout cleaning.
Backsplash Cost: Bottom Line
The average total cost to install a kitchen backsplash is $40-$60 per square foot, including materials and professional installation. For a typical 30-40 sq ft backsplash, that puts the total cost in the range of $1200-$2400.
Lower end backsplashes with basic tile start around $10-$15 per square foot. High-end designer backsplash projects can exceed $100 per square foot.
The worth of upgrading your kitchen with a backsplash depends on your budget, tastes, and home goals. For resale value, a mid-range backsplash material like glass tile is a good investment that gives you the most bang for your buck.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost per square foot to install a backsplash?
On average, expect to pay $20-$50 per square foot for backsplash installation. Simple ceramic tile starts around $10-$20 per square foot, while premium materials like metal and natural stone range from $50-$100+ per square foot installed.
Should I install backsplash tile before or after countertops?
It’s best practice to install backsplashes after countertops. This allows you to make a clean, seamless transition from the countertop to backsplash. Installing tile first also raises the risk of damaging countertops during installation.
What is the best backsplash for a rental property?
For rental properties, inexpensive and resilient ceramic or porcelain tiles are best. Avoid very light or easily stained grout. Go for simple installation that won’t require much upkeep or repairs.
How high should a kitchen backsplash be?
Standard backsplash height is 4 inches above the countertop. Full height backsplashes that extend from countertop to cabinets are also popular. Optimal height depends on your style, storage needs, and budget.
Should backsplash tile match floor tile?
It’s not mandatory, but matching wall and floor tiles can make spaces appear larger and more cohesive. Tiles don’t have to perfectly match, but coordinate colors and materials. Use accents like borders to tie the looks together.
Conclusion
Installing a backsplash is one of the most effective ways to elevate your kitchen’s appearance. While backsplash installation does represent a significant investment, the visual payoff can be well worth the cost. Following a budget and working with an experienced tile contractor makes achieving the backsplash of your dreams easy and affordable.