A kitchen backsplash serves both form and function – it protects your wall from cooking messes and adds style to your space. When planning a kitchen remodel or upgrade, the backsplash is often one area where homeowners want to make a decor statement. With so many backsplash options to choose from, ranging from inexpensive to high-end, it’s common to wonder – how much should you spend on a kitchen backsplash? Let’s explore the factors that impact backsplash costs and get real numbers on pricing.
What Impacts The Cost of a Kitchen Backsplash?
Several key considerations go into determining your backsplash budget:
Backsplash Material
The material you choose has a significant effect on cost. Traditional backsplash tiles like ceramic, porcelain or glass tile are very affordable. While upscale options like marble, granite or metal tile cost more. Here’s a quick look at price ranges by material:
- Ceramic tile: $5-$20 per sq. ft.
- Porcelain tile: $15-$50 per sq. ft.
- Glass tile: $15-$30 per sq. ft.
- Marble tile: $40-$100 per sq. ft.
- Granite tile: $50-$150 per sq. ft.
- Metal tile: $50+ per sq. ft.
Beyond the tile itself, glass, marble or stone often have higher installation costs due to extra cutting and care needed.
Backsplash Size
The overall size of your backsplash determines how many material square feet you need to cover. The average backsplash size is around 25-30 sq. ft. for a medium kitchen. But larger kitchens can require 50 sq. ft or more of tile. Measure your target backsplash area when estimating to get accurate numbers.
Backsplash Design
Simple designs with basic tile shapes tend to cost less than intricate patterns or mosaic styles. Unique shapes like hexagons or herringbone layouts often require specialist cutting or extra installation time too, which can drive up prices.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Installing a backsplash yourself cuts costs, but can be tricky if you’re inexperienced. Factors like achieving a straight layout, proper spacing, and grout application take skill. Professional installers charge around $200 per day.
Additional Materials
Don’t overlook added costs like backerboard, thinset mortar, grout and sealants when budgeting your backsplash. These extras can add $200 or more to the project total.
Now that we’ve covered the major factors, let’s look at estimated price ranges for popular backsplash tile materials and styles.
Ceramic & Porcelain Backsplash Tile Costs
Affordable and versatile, ceramic and porcelain tiles are homeowner favorites. Here are typical costs based on material, size and layout.
Ceramic Backsplash Tile Cost
- Basic 3 x 6” ceramic subway tile: $5-$10 per sq. ft.
- Mixed shapes/sizes ceramic tile: $10-$20 per sq. ft.
- Handmade/artisan ceramic tile: $15-$40+ per sq. ft.
Ceramic tiles range from $1-$10 per sq. ft. for home improvement store varieties. Handmade artisan styles from specialty shops run $5-$20+ per piece.
For a 30 sq. ft. backsplash, you’ll spend about:
- Subway tile backsplash: $150 to $300
- Multi-shape ceramic tile backsplash: $300 to $600
Porcelain Backsplash Tile Cost
- Basic white 3 x 6” porcelain subway tile: $15-$25 per sq. ft.
- Stone-look porcelain tiles: $25-$50 per sq. ft.
- Large format porcelain tiles: $30-$60 per sq. ft.
Porcelain tile offers a more durable and low-maintenance option compared to ceramic. Prices start around $5 per sq. ft. for simple white subway tile, and go up to $15-$30 per sq. ft. for stone-look and designer styles.
For a 30 sq. ft. medium kitchen backsplash, expect to spend:
- Porcelain subway tile backsplash: $450 to $750
- Stone-look porcelain backsplash: $750 to $1,500
Glass Tile Backsplash Costs
From translucent to vivid colors, glass tile brings eye-catching style. Prices typically range from:
- Mixed glass subway tiles: $15-$25 per sq. ft.
- Mosaic glass tiles: $20-$30 per sq. ft.
- Large glass tile strips: $25-$40 per sq. ft.
Due to extra cutting and installation steps, glass tile costs $5 to $10 more per sq. ft. vs ceramic or porcelain.
For a 30 sq. ft. backsplash, your total glass tile backsplash cost would be around:
- Subway glass tile backsplash: $450 to $750
- Glass mosaic backsplash: $600 to $900
Natural Stone Tile Backsplash Costs
For a touch of luxury, natural stone tile brings compelling textures and patterns. Here are typical costs:
Marble Backsplash Tile
- Basic Carrara or subway marble tile: $40-$70 per sq. ft.
- Honed marble tile: $60-$100 per sq. ft.
- Intricate marble mosaic tile: $80-$150 per sq. ft.
Marble tile ranges from $10-$40 per sq. ft. depending on quality, source and detailing. With higher installation costs factored in, expect to spend $40+ per sq. ft. for your project.
For a 30 sq. ft. marble backsplash, you’ll invest anywhere from:
- Simple marble backsplash: $1,200 to $2,100
- Marble mosaic backsplash: $2,400 to $4,500
Travertine Backsplash Tile
- Honed travertine subway tile: $30-$60 per sq. ft.
- Hand-honed travertine: $60-$120 per sq. ft.
- Travertine accent inserts: $50-$150 per piece
Travertine tile ranges from $10-$50 per sq. ft. With professional installation, costs are typically $30-$60 per sq. ft. Accent tiles add $50+ each.
For a 30 sq. ft. travertine backsplash, budget:
- Subway travertine backsplash: $900 to $1,800
- Full hand-honed travertine backsplash: $1,800 to $3,600
Granite Backsplash Tile
- Polished granite subway tiles: $50-$90 per sq. ft.
- Honed granite subway tiles: $60-$150 per sq. ft.
- Granite accent tiles: $75-$200 per piece
Granite backsplash tiles cost between $25-$75 per sq. ft. Factor in professional installation at $50+ per hour, and your total will be $50-$150 per sq. ft.
For a 30 sq. ft. granite backsplash, plan around:
- Granite subway tile backsplash: $1,500 to $2,700
- Accent granite backsplash: $3,000+
Slate Backsplash Tile
- Slate subway tiles: $50-$80 per sq. ft.
- Multicolor slate tile: $70-$120 per sq. ft.
- Slate mosaic tile: $100-$150 per sq. ft.
Natural slate tiles range from $20-$60 per sq. ft. With specialized cutting and installation required, slate backsplash projects often run $50-$150 per sq. ft. total.
For a typical 30 sq. ft. slate backsplash, expect to spend:
- Slate subway tile backsplash: $1,500 to $2,400
- Slate mosaic backsplash: $3,000 to $4,500
Metal & Mosaic Backsplash Tile Costs
For contemporary style, metal and mosaic tiles are on-trend choices:
Metal Backsplash Tiles
- Stainless steel tile: $50-$80 per sq. ft.
- Copper tile: $60-$120 per sq. ft.
- Tin backsplash tile: $80-$150 per sq. ft.
- Brass/nickel tile: $100-$200 per sq. ft.
Metal backsplash tiles range widely in cost depending on the metal. Stainless steel and tin start at $25+ per sq. ft. While brass, copper and nickel tiles cost $50+ per sq. ft. Professional installation is key.
For a 30 sq. ft. metal backsplash, expect to spend:
- Stainless steel backsplash: $1,500 to $2,400
- Copper backsplash: $1,800 to $3,600
- Brass/nickel backsplash: $3,000 to $6,000
Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
- Mixed glass mosaics: $30-$60 per sq. ft.
- Metallic glass mosaics: $40-$80 per sq. ft.
- Designer glass mosaics: $60-$150 per sq. ft.
Small glass mosaic tiles cost $5-$20 per piece, with many containing high-end materials like metallic or iridescent glass. Installation is intricate and time-consuming, typically $30-$60 per sq. ft.
For a 30 sq. ft. glass mosaic backsplash, expect to budget:
- Glass mosaic backsplash: $900 to $1,800
- Designer glass mosaic backsplash: $1,800 to $4,500
How Much Does Backsplash Tile Installation Cost?
While DIY installation can save on labor fees, tiling a backsplash properly requires skill and experience. Many homeowners opt to hire a professional tile setter, which typically costs:
- Ceramic or porcelain tile installation: $200-$500
- Glass, marble or metal tile installation: $500-$1,000
More delicate materials like glass and marble need special cutting tools and care to install without breaking or cracking tiles. This expert work is well worth the investment to get your backsplash done right.
Additional Backsplash Costs To Factor In
Beyond the backsplash tile itself, you’ll need to budget for:
- Backerboard: $40 to $60
- Thinset mortar: $20 to $40
- Grout: $20 to $50
- Sealants: $30 to $50
- Tile trim: $20 to $100+
These additional materials and supplies typically add at least $200 onto your total backsplash installation cost.
DIY Backsplash Installation Cost Savings
For the DIYer, you can save big on labor by installing your own backsplash tile. Here are typical DIY cost estimates:
DIY ceramic or porcelain backsplash cost:
- Tile: $300 to $600
- Additional materials: $200
- Total cost: $500 to $800
DIY glass or marble backsplash cost:
- Tile: $600 to $1,500
- Additional materials: $200
- Total cost: $800 to $1,700
While not always easy, installing your own backsplash is very achievable for an experienced DIYer. Be sure to account for your time and tools as well.
Factors That Increase Your Backsplash Cost
Several factors can bump up your total backsplash cost:
- Decorative border tiles or accents
- Intricate or multicolored mosaic tile patterns
- Professional installation fees
- Hard-to-install materials like glass or marble
- Urban location with higher labor rates
- Extensive backsplash size over 50 sq. ft.
- Specialty grouts or sealants
Depending on your design and tile choices, it’s easy for costs to exceed $100 per sq. ft. or more. Have a clear budget in mind before choosing pricier backsplash materials and accents.
Tips For Lowering Your Backsplash Cost
If you’re looking for ways to cut backsplash costs, consider these money-saving ideas:
- Choose affordable ceramic or porcelain tiles
- Opt for basic subway tile layout
- Look for tile sales and closeout deals
- Install the backsplash yourself
- Use existing countertop material for a minimalist look
- Select smaller accent tile area vs full backsplash
- Use paint as an affordable backsplash alternative
Even little changes like standard grout vs epoxy grout can make a difference. Focus your bigger splurges on statement areas like a range hood or decorative focal point.
Popular Backsplash Ideas On A Budget
Here are some stylish backsplash concepts perfect for any budget:
Simple White Subway Tile
Clean and classic, white 3×6” subway tiles create a lovely vintage look for $5-$15 per sq. ft. Use sparingly as an accent or go floor to ceiling for minimal cost.
Bold Painted Backsplash
Instead of tile, paint your backsplash area in a bright, eye-catching color for the easiest budget upgrade. Use high-quality kitchen paint to handle heat and splatters.
Faux Brick or Wood Backsplash
Use brick veneer panels or planks of faux reclaimed wood for an earthy, rustic backsplash on any budget. This lightweight wallcovering looks amazingly realistic.
Stenciled or Decaled Backsplash
Consider a faux mosaic backsplash using stencils or decals. Choose patterns or images meaningful to you, in any color scheme.
Metal Pegboard Backsplash
Cover an inexpensive metal pegboard sheet in stainless steel, copper or tin to get an industrial backsplash style at a budget price.
Contact Paper Backsplash
For temporary transforms, today’s contact paper comes in tons of textures, colors and patterns – including chic backsplash looks. It goes up in minutes and peels off easily.
With a little creativity, you can get a backsplash you love for less. Focus on bold hues, meaningful textures and unique diy illusions over pricey designer tiles.
Backsplash Cost By Material: At a Glance
Here’s a breakdown of typical per square foot costs by popular backsplash materials:
- Ceramic tile: $5-$20 per sq. ft.
- Porcelain tile: $15-$50 per sq. ft.
- Glass tile: $15-$30 per sq. ft.
- Marble tile: $40-$100 per sq. ft.
- Granite tile: $50-$150 per sq. ft.
- Metal tile: $50+ per sq. ft.
- Slate tile: $50-$150 per sq. ft.
- Mosaics tile: $30-$150+ per sq. ft.
While material plays a key role, skilled installation also impacts the final expense of any backsplash project. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of DIY vs hiring out before setting your backsplash budget.
Backsplash Cost Per Square Foot: Material Comparison Chart
| Material | Low Cost Per Sq. Ft. | High Cost Per Sq. Ft. |
|-|-|-|
| Ceramic Tile | $5 | $20 |
| Porcelain Tile | $15 | $50 |
| Glass Tile | $15 | $30 |
| Marble Tile | $40 | $100 |
| Granite Tile | $50 | $150 |
| Metal Tile | $50 | $200 |
| Slate Tile | $50 | $150 |
| Mosaic Tile | $30 | $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Backsplash Costs
Still have questions about how much a kitchen backsplash should cost for your home? Here are answers to some common backsplash pricing and budgeting FAQs:
How much does a 30 sq. ft. backsplash cost?
For a medium 30 sq. ft. backsplash, costs typically range from:
- Ceramic tile: $150 to $600
- Porcelain tile: $450 to $1,500
- Glass tile: $450 to $900
- Natural stone: $900 to $3,000+
- Metal tile: $1,500 to $6,000+
- Mosaics: $900 to $4,500+
Prices vary widely based on your tile material, complexity of the design, and whether you DIY or hire a pro.
What is the cheapest backsplash option?
The most affordable backsplash is ceramic or porcelain subway tile installed in a basic layout. White 3×6” ceramic subway tiles start at just $5 per sq. ft. For a simple clean look on a budget, shiny white subway tiles are a great choice.
What is the most expensive kitchen backsplash material?
Natural granite, marble, and handmade artisan tiles are generally the most expensive backsplash materials. While prices vary, these luxurious backsplash tile styles often run $50 to $200+ per sq. ft. Some specialty metal backsplashes can also have premium costs of $100+ per sq. ft.
What is the best backsplash for resale value?
White subway tile backsplashes are real estate agent favorites because they appeal to the widest range of buyers. Crisp and classic, white subway tiles add value without dating your home to a bold trend.
How much does a backsplash accent cost?
For a small backsplash accent area of 6-10 sq. ft. behind a stove for example, you’ll spend roughly:
- Ceramic or porcelain accent: $60 – $200
- Glass, stone or metal accent: $150 – $500+
Limiting your backsplash to a key focal area can help cut costs significantly.
Can you do a backsplash yourself?
Ambitious DIYers can absolutely tackle their own backsplash installation. While challenging, the job is very achievable for an intermediate to advanced homeowner. Be sure to account for tools, lots of patience, and extra material in case of breakage.