Adding a backsplash to your kitchen can completely transform the look and feel of the space. Not only does a backsplash provide an extra layer of protection for your walls against splashes and spills, but it also serves as a decorative focal point. When considering installing a new backsplash, one of the first questions that comes to mind is likely “How much will this cost?” If you plan to purchase materials and installation services from Lowes, here is what you can expect.

Factors That Impact Total Cost

Several key factors will impact the total cost to install a new backsplash from Lowes:

Materials – The specific type of backsplash materials you select will significantly affect the price. Tile, metal, glass, and stone are among the most popular options, with a wide range of prices within each category. More exotic or high-end materials will raise the total price.
Backsplash size – The total square footage of your backsplash will determine how much material you need to purchase. Larger kitchens or backsplashes that cover multiple walls will be more expensive.
specialty shapes and textures – Mosaics, subway tiles, pebble tiles, and other unique shapes and textures can add cost compared to basic square ceramic tiles.
Accent touches – Details like decorative borders, specialty trim pieces, and accent tiles can add flair but also extra expense.
Installation – If you choose to have Lowes professionally install your backsplash, labor costs will be a significant portion of your total price.
Market prices – Both material and labor costs can vary based on current market prices in your local area.

With all of these factors at play, total costs can range dramatically. However, looking at the specific services Lowes provides can give you a better idea of what to expect.

Cost of Materials

Lowes offers an extensive selection of backsplash tiles and alternate materials, available both in-store and online. Here are some estimated price ranges for popular backsplash materials sold at Lowes:

Ceramic tile: $0.50 – $30 per sq. ft.
Porcelain tile: $1 – $50 per sq. ft.
Glass tile: $10 – $50 per sq. ft.
Marble tile: $5 – $50 per sq. ft.
Granite tile: $10 – $30 per sq. ft.
Metal tile: $3 – $20 per sq. ft.
Mosaic tile: $5 – $50 per sq. ft.
Peel-and-stick tile: $0.70 – $5 per sq. ft.

These material prices do not include other supplies like grout, thinset, adhesive, and sealant which can add $150 – $300 to your total.

Cost of Installation

For installation services, you can choose between hiring Lowes to install your backsplash or doing it yourself. Here is an overview of your options:

DIY Installation

If you have some tiling experience and are up for a DIY challenge, installing your own backsplash can save you money on labor. Lowes provides all of the materials and tools needed. If it is your first time, the project could take 20 hours or longer. Total cost would be your materials plus supplies.

Lowes Installation

Lowes offers professional backsplash installation as a service coordinated through their kitchen renovation department. To provide an accurate quote, they will send a specialist to your home to assess the project site. On average, national installation rates through Lowes range from:

Basic Installation – $50 to $70 per sq. ft. This includes tile setting labor only.
Deluxe installation – $70 to $120 per sq. ft. This adds tile back-buttering for waterproofing, grout sealing, trim pieces, and other finish details.

Based on these estimates, a 100 sq. ft. backsplash would cost $5,000 – $12,000 for install from Lowes. The range depends heavily on tiles chosen and the complexity of the design. Many Lowes locations also offer design consultation and planning services for an added fee.

DIY vs Pro Installation

Installing backsplash tile is possible for DIYers with the right tools and attention to detail. However, there are some perks to hiring pros:

Benefits of DIY Install

Lower cost – Save on installation labor fees
Personalization – Achieve the exact look and design you want
Learning experience – Gain tiling skills and learn advanced techniques

Benefits of Lowes Pro Install

Expertise – Access experienced installers with specialized tools
Efficiency – Jobs completed faster than DIY timelines
Warranty – Installation work is guaranteed and backed by Lowes
Full-service – Lowes can coordinate your entire kitchen remodel

As you can see, choosing between DIY vs. Lowes install depends on your budget, skills, and lifestyle needs. Carefully weigh the options before deciding what works best for your backsplash project.

Factors That Impact Installation Cost

If you do choose professional installation through Lowes, several factors can increase the total price:

Complex design – Intricate patterns, mosaics, or details raise the installation time and difficulty.
Niche and lighting – Adding a niche for shelving or accent lighting involves electrical work.
Tile size and texture – Small tiles or special shapes take longer to precisely install.
Permits – Your city may require obtaining permits for electrical or construction work.
Removal of old backsplash – Taking out your outdated existing backsplash adds demo work.
Add-ons – Accent borders, trim, and other special touches increase costs in labor and supplies.

To keep your project on budget, opt for larger, simpler tiles and minimal niche features. Removing your old backsplash yourself before install also helps reduce Lowes labor fees.

Tips for Saving Money on Installation

If the estimates from Lowes exceed your budget for professional installation, here are some tips to cut down costs:

Source tiles and supplies separately, then pay Lowes only for labor instead of material mark-ups
Provide your own tile backer board and adhesive to save on supplies
Choose a simple stacked, brick, or single row pattern to reduce labor time
Install the backsplash yourself in sections you can manage, and have Lowes do the tricky parts
Ask if Lowes offers any seasonal discounts or coupons for install services
Provide all demolition, removal of old backsplash, and site prep to reduce preparatory work
Opt for peeled-and-stick tiles which have lower installation prices

The Bottom Line

Installing a backsplash from Lowes offers convenience, quality, and expertise. But as a specialty service, professional installation does come at a premium. Carefully calculate total costs ahead of time, and look for ways to simplify the design if needed to fit your budget. With smart planning, you can achieve a stylish Lowes backsplash that enriches your kitchen within your desired investment range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions related to the cost of installing a backsplash from Lowes:

Q: Does Lowes provide free installation or design services for backsplashes?

A: Unfortunately no, Lowes does not offer free backsplash installation or design. All installation and design services require payment based on the size of the project and scope of work. However, they do provide free in-store consultations.

Q: If I buy backsplash materials from Lowes, do I have to use Lowes for installation?

A: No, you can purchase backsplash tiles, grout, and other supplies from Lowes without any obligation to use their installation services. Many customers buy materials from Lowes but hire local independent contractors for install.

Q: Can I install a backsplash myself if I am not experienced with tiling?

A: Yes, installing a backsplash is definitely a DIY-friendly project even for beginners, as long as you carefully follow instructions. Lowes provides how-to videos and guides online to walk you through the process. Just be prepared for the project to take longer compared to a pro.

Q: Does Lowes offer any discounts on installation costs?

A: Periodically Lowes provides 10% off coupons on specialty services like backsplash installation. Signing up for their email list is the best way to find out about current promotions. You can also negotiate rates with the in-store project specialist.

Q: What does Lowes full-service backsplash installation include?

A: A full-service install from Lowes may include tile back-buttering, waterproofing, trim details, grout sealing, niche creation, accent lighting, and all clean up. Demolition of old backsplash and site prep work may cost extra.

Q: What is the cheapest backsplash option at Lowes?

A: Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are the most budget-friendly materials sold at Lowes, with prices as low as $0.70 per square foot. For lowest installation cost, rectangular white subway style tiles are simplest for DIY.

Q: Does Lowes have designers who can help plan my backsplash project?

A: Yes, the kitchen design services at Lowes offer help planning your entire backsplash project, including tile selection, layouts, estimating, and coordinating installation. These design services typically start at $99 but may be waived with purchase.

Conclusion

Transforming your kitchen with a fresh new backsplash is easy and affordable with the convenient products and services offered by Lowes. Carefully calculating material and installation costs in advance allows you to budget wisely. With some smart planning and cost-saving techniques, you can enjoy a Lowes backsplash that stays within your desired investment and matches your DIY skills.

How Much Does Lowes Charge to Install a Backsplash?