Choosing the right backsplash tile for your kitchen or bathroom can transform the look and feel of the space. With so many options to pick from, it can be tricky to settle on the perfect backsplash. Follow this comprehensive guide on how to choose backsplash tile for your next remodel.
Determine Your Design Goals
Before shopping for backsplash tile, decide what you want to accomplish with your backsplash. Here are some common backsplash design goals to consider:
- Create a focal point – Play with bold patterns or an eye-catching color to make the backsplash a standout.
- Complement the cabinets/countertops – Choose backsplash tile that works with your existing cabinetry and countertops to pull the whole room together.
- Make the space look larger – Use glossy, reflective tiles or neutral colors to give the illusion of a bigger kitchen.
- Add warmth – Earth tones, natural stone and brick backsplashes lend a cozy vibe.
- Incorporate texture – Materials like subway tile, travertine and pebble mosaic provide visual and tactile interest.
Knowing your backsplash goals will inform every other decision in the process.
Choose a Tile Material
With your design goals in mind, explore these popular backsplash tile materials to decide what fits best:
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Durable, affordable and easy to clean, ceramic and porcelain tiles come in a vast array of styles. Options include glossy metro tile, handmade subway tile, Moroccan-inspired decorative tile and much more.
Natural Stone Tile
Backsplashes made from materials like marble, travertine and slate have unmatched visual depth and work beautifully in traditional kitchens. Be aware that natural stone requires more maintenance than ceramic or porcelain.
Glass Tile
Glass backsplash tiles lend eye-catching sparkle. The glass can be clear, colored, frosted or metallics like copper or nickel. Glass tile holds up well but can be prone to cracking if hit hard.
Metal Tile
Metal backsplashes bring contemporary, industrial flair through materials like stainless steel, copper, tin or nickel. Consider hammered metal for added dimension. Keep in mind that metal shows scratches easily.
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tiles are composed of small scale tiles arranged to form a pattern. Popular options are stone, ceramic, glass and even a mix of materials. Go for mosaic tiles if you want artistic flair.
Consider the style you want and your budget to narrow down the best backsplash tile material for your space.
Select a Tile Shape
In addition to material, tile shape makes a big impact on the overall look and feel of the backsplash. Look through the tile shape options to find the right fit:
Subway Tile
The subway tile style offers straight edges and a stacked brick-like pattern. Use it to create clean lines and a sense of order.
Hexagon Tile
Hexagon backsplash tiles have six equal sides and angular shapes to generate visual interest and symmetry.
Herringbone Tile
Herringbone patterns made from rectangular tiles evoke sophistication. They work especially well in traditional kitchens.
Large Format Tile
Oversized tiles help small spaces appear more expansive. Pair with grout lines in matching color for seamless look.
Mixed Shapes
Using a combination of complementary tile shapes keeps the backsplash visually intriguing. Try mixing subways with mosaics.
Penny Rounds
Penny round tiles are small, thin circles. Grouped together, they have an eye-catching mosaic effect.
Selecting the tile shape that aligns with your goals will ensure your backsplash is cohesive and appealing.
Find the Right Tile Size
In conjunction with shape, pay attention to tile sizes when planning your backsplash. Some guidelines:
- Small tile sizes (1 inch or less) are great for intricate mosaic patterns.
- Medium tile sizes (2-4 inches) work well for subway style layouts.
- Large format tiles (6 inches or larger) create modern appeal and open up smaller kitchens.
- Varying tile sizes together can look interesting, but be mindful of proportions.
Measure the space and use spacers when laying out patterns to get the tile sizes right. The tile size should correlate with the scale of your backsplash area.
Choose a Color Palette
Nail down the backsplash tile colors once you’ve selected material, shape and size. Some tips on backsplash tile colors:
- Match or coordinate with cabinetry – For a cohesive look.
- Contrast with countertops – To make the backsplash pop.
- Tie in accent colors used in the kitchen – Appliances like a range hood often provide inspiration.
- Neutral colors open up smaller kitchens.
- Warm tones like terracotta add a sense of comfort.
- Cool hues like blue-green bring in natural elements.
- Metallic backsplash tiles infuse contemporary glam.
Be sure that the palette you select transitions nicely between the countertops, cabinets and flooring.
Decide on a Tile Layout Pattern
The arrangement of your backsplash tiles also affects the aesthetic. Layout patterns include:
- Stacked – Straight, horizontal rows
- Brick pattern – Offset rows for a woven look
- Pinwheel – Tiles radiate from center for drama
- Picture frame – Bordered central motif
- Geometric – Angles, triangles, diamonds
- Freeform – Asymmetrical for organic style
Plan the tile layout pattern that aligns with your backsplash goals and structure. Use graph paper or design software to visualize arrangement.
Purchase Extra Tiles
When prepping your backsplash tile purchase, be sure to buy 10-15% more tiles than the measurements suggest. This provides extras in case some tiles crack or chip during installation or need to be replaced down the road. Purchase tile and necessary backerboard/adhesives together for complete project needs.
Hire a Pro for Tricky Installs
While small-scale ceramic or porcelain tile backsplashes can potentially be DIYed, large format tiles or natural stone are best left to professionals. The right tools, skill and experience are needed to cut and place tile meticulously so the end result is polished and durable. Don’t chance imperfect tile placement – hire a reputable contractor.
With proper planning and preparation, you can install a showstopping backsplash tile design. Follow these tips when making your backsplash tile decisions. Take time to choose tiles that achieve your goals so you end up with a space you’re happy to spend time in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Backsplash Tile
What are the most popular backsplash tile sizes?
The most popular backsplash tile sizes are:
- Subway tile (3×6 inches)
- Metro tile (1×2 inches )
- Carrara hexagon tile (4-6 inches)
- Large format (12×24 inches or larger)
Tile sizes around 4 inches or smaller help create intricate patterns. Larger tiles open up the space.
How much does a kitchen backsplash tile install cost?
The cost to install a kitchen backsplash tile is $40-$70 per square foot, including labor and materials. Simple subway tile with basic installation starts around $40 per square foot. More intricate tile patterns, glass or stone tiles, backsplash height and pro contractor fees increase costs.
What tile is best for kitchen backsplash?
The best kitchen backsplash tiles are ceramic, porcelain or natural stone. Subway, metro, mosaic, hexagon and glass tile are popular choices. Key is finding heat and water resistant tile in a style that aligns with your kitchen goals while fitting your budget.
What backsplash goes with white cabinets?
White kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with nearly any color backsplash tile. Good options include white subway tile, carrara marble, or gray, navy and wood-look ceramic tiles. Contrasting grout lines in black, gray or beige enhance the white cabinetry.
Can you put backsplash tile over existing backsplash?
It is possible to install new backsplash tile over an existing backsplash. The old backsplash must be sanded down and you may need to apply an adhesive skim coat if the current backsplash is glossy or incompatible with the adhesive. Contact experienced tile professionals to assess if your existing backsplash can support new tile.
What do you put behind a backsplash?
Behind kitchen backsplash tiles, use cement board or a water-resistant drywall like purple board rather than regular drywall. This provides a moisture barrier to prevent warping or mold growth. Use fiberglass backerboard for glass tiles. Follow manufacturer instructions for proper backsplash underlayment.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect backsplash tile involves assessing your design goals, space limitations and style preferences. Keep material, color, shape, size and pattern in harmony. Measure precisely and use tile layout tools to ensure a streamlined installation. With proper planning and a reliable contractor, your new backsplash can transform the heart of your home with stylish, quality tilework.