Choosing the perfect backsplash for your kitchen or bathroom can completely transform the look and feel of the space. But with so many backsplash options to pick from—tile, stone, glass, metal, and more—deciding on the right material and style can feel overwhelming. Follow this comprehensive guide on how to choose the right backsplash for your design needs.

Determine Your Budget

Backsplashes can range dramatically in price from DIY-friendly peel-and-stick paper at $1 per square foot, all the way up to handmade artisan tiles at $50+ per square foot. Set realistic expectations around what you can spend before falling in love with options outside your budget.

Low budget: Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles or panels, paint
Moderate budget: Ceramic or porcelain tile, glass mosaic tile, faux stone
High budget: Natural stone tile, metal tile, handmade or artisan tile

Measure the backsplash area in your kitchen or bathroom to determine how many square feet you’ll need to cover. Use your total budget and desired materials to set a price per square foot limit.

Decide on Functionality

Consider how your backsplash will be used to determine the best materials for your needs:

For heavy-use areas around stoves or sinks, prioritize durability with ceramic, porcelain or stainless steel.
In low-moisture bathrooms, water-resistant materials like glass tile add style.
For kitchen backsplashes with outlets, look for non-conductive materials like tempered glass or glazed ceramic.
Choose easy-to-clean glossy backsplash tile behind stoves or sinks that will need frequent wiping.

Match backsplash functionality with your goals – a kitchen workhorse or bathroom accent wall. This will narrow down smart material options.

Choose Backsplash Materials

With an idea of your budget and use cases, explore popular backsplash materials to find your perfect fit.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

Durable, water-resistant and affordable option ideal for heavy-use kitchen backsplashes.
Available in tons of colors, finishes, shapes and patterns.
Easy to clean and resistant to grease and stains.
Costs $5-$50 per square foot based on style.

Glass Tile or Mosaic

Elegant, shiny option available in tons of colors, shapes and varieties.
Different textures from smooth to pebbled.
Costs $10-$30 per square foot.
Less durable than ceramic or porcelain. Better for low-moisture bathroom backsplashes.

Natural Stone Tile

Elegant, premium look but requires sealing to resist water and stains.
Natural variations in stone create unique patterns.
Costs $15-$100+ per square foot based on material and cut.
Heavy and may require structural reinforcement. Best for accent sections, not whole walls.

Metal Tile

Bold, contemporary look in materials like stainless steel, copper or tin.
Very durable, easy to clean, and moisture-resistant.
Costs $25-$100+ per square foot based on metal.
Conducts electricity – not for outlets. Adds a modern, industrial look.

Faux Stone Panels

Lightweight and affordable alternative to real stone.
Materials like laminate, BFRC or polyurethane stone look real.
Costs $5-$20 per square foot.
Easy DIY installation with peel-and-stick panels.

Paint or Wallpaper

Most budget-friendly backsplash option starting under $1 per square foot.
Glossy paint wipes clean behind stoves or sinks. Choose mold-resistant materials.
Removable wallpaper allows changing style easily. Use glossy vinyl for moisture resistance.
Use caulk between wallpaper seams; paint may need recoating over time.

Pick a Backsplash Style

Beyond the materials, hone in on the look you want from layout patterns to backsplash shapes and visual textures.

Backsplash Patterns

Classic subways – 3×6” glossy ceramic tiles in horizontal rows. Timeless and versatile.
Herringbone – Rectangular tiles in alternating angles for visual interest. Works in many materials.
Mosaic – Tiny uniform tiles create plentiful grout lines and a grid-like pattern. Great for small spaces.
Large statement tiles – 12”x24” porcelain slabs with minimal grout lines keep it simple.
Brick lay – Offset rectangular tiles laid in rows like brickwork. Rustic and charming.
Modern linear – Sleek stripes or grids with metal/glass tiles and minimalistic grout lines.
Moroccan fish scale – Round overlapping tiles in various materials create a decorative focal feature.
Geometric – Angular tiles like hexagons create unique geometric shapes. Edgy and contemporary.
Handmade artisan – One-of-a-kind recycled tiles, pottery shards or glass pieces make eclectic mosaics.

Consider the room’s overall design style when selecting a pattern – keep it cohesive. Measure the space to calculate how many full versus cut tiles are needed.

Backsplash Tile Shapes

Subway tile: classic 3×6” rectangular glossy tile.
Square tile: 4”x4” uniform sizing for grid-like patterns.
Hexagon tile: six-sided tiles create geometric honeycomb designs.
Octagon tile: eight-sided for unique patterns with dimensional interest.
Penny tile: round 1-2” mosaic tiles inspired by pennies.
Other unique shapes: fish scale circular tiles, triangular, diamond, nontraditional polygons.

Combine tile shapes within patterns or stick to one style for a clean, consistent look.

Backsplash Textures

Glossy: reflective, shiny finish that pops. Great for bold colors or metallics. Easy to wipe down.
Matte: zero shine with a natural, muted aesthetic. Hides fingerprints and watermarks.
Honed: Soft matte finish with subtle surface texture. Natural stone finish without glossy gleam.
Textured: Contoured surfaces like 3D glass tile, pebbled and chiseled stone. Adds depth and interest.
Metallic: Iridescent glass or real metals like copper and stainless steel, for an industrial vibe.

Balance visual textures – glossy tiles paired with textured stone mosaics, for example. This creates overall harmony while adding interest.

Choose Color Palette

Once you’ve narrowed down backsplash materials and styles, choose a color palette that complements your overall kitchen or bathroom design.

Monochromatic – different tones and textures in one dominant color for a soothing, cohesive look. Soft grays or warm browns work well.
Boldly contrasting – make a dramatic style statement with dark-light combinations like navy and white, or glossy black against natural stone.
Tone-on-tone – tiled patterns blending multiple muted, harmonious tones with slight variations in color.
Earthy natural – warm beiges, creams and organic hues emulate natural materials like travertine and marble.
Vintage inspired – retro color combos like goldenrod, robin’s egg blue, and sage green.
Metallic sheen – shiny metals, mirrored glass, and pearlescent tile catch the light.

Hold materials next to kitchen cabinets, countertops and paint swatches to test color combinations before installing. Wood samples, fabric swatches and paint chips help visualize finished looks.

Select Grout Color

Grout fills the spaces between tiles, so its color significantly impacts the overall look. Consider:

Lighter grout opens up smaller spaces visually. Bright white is great for modern baths and kitchens.
Darker grout grounds colorful or intricate tile layouts. Espresso suits handmade mosaics.
Contrasting grout makes the tile design pop. Emphasize light tiles with dark grout or vice-versa.
Matching grout keeps the focus on a statement tile or minimalist grid pattern.
Specialty grout – metallic epoxy or glass bead grout creates jeweled effects.

Test grout colors on a tiled sample board before making final grouting decisions. Remember to seal grout if needed.

Consider Edging and Trim

Finish off your fab new backsplash with perfect edging pieces and optional accent trim:

Edging

Bullnose edge – Rounded-off tiles on side and top edges for a polished, seamless transition to walls.
Pencil trim – Narrow decorative border made of tiles cut into thin sticks, laid vertically or horizontally.
Chair rail trim – Classic horizontal element about 1/3 up the wall to tie wainscoting paneling to the tile above.

Accent Trim

Decorative inserts – Thin strips of glass, metal or contrasting tile material to add interest.
Mosaic bands – Rows or geometric shapes made from small mosaic tiles as an accent.
Listello – Vertical rectangular border tiles laid in a line for Mediterranean appeal.
Mirror tiles – Add a reflective strip or geometric dazzle. Not over sinks where they’ll corrode.

Frame your backsplash installation with proper edging/trim for a professional finish.

Estimate Installation Needs

With materials and design decided, make a list of everything you need for proper installation:

Tile – Calculate 10-15% extra to account for odd spaces, potential breakage and future repairs
Tile spacers – Plastic crosses ensure even grout line spacing.
Grout – Pre-mixed for convenience or colored powder to mix as needed.
Grout sealer – Required for porous tile like natural stone to prevent staining.
Adhesive or thinset – Ensure it’s suitable for the backsplash material you’re installing.
Backing board – Cement, fiber cement, or water-resistant drywall may be required.
Tape and mud – For seams between drywall sheets before tiling.
Notched trowel – Toothed spreader for evenly combing out tile adhesive.
Wet saw – For precise tile cutting (can rent if needed).
Grout float – Finishing tool to smooth grout between tile.
Caulk – Fills in gaps along countertops, edges, or built-in fixtures.
Mixing paddles – Thinset often requires mixing with an electric drill.

For DIY installation, watch online tutorials on proper tiling techniques before beginning. Hire a professional for large or intricate layouts.

Deciding on Contractor vs. DIY

You can install a simple backsplash tile project as a DIY job, but larger or more complex installations are best left to tile professionals. Consider:

DIY Backsplash Projects:

Peel-and-stick tile panels
Painted or wallpaper backsplashes
Small area of basic subway tile
MSI or laminate panels (pre-assembled sheets)

Call the Pros for:

Natural stone tile or large format tile
Intricate patterns like herringbone
Heavily textured or 3D tile
Entire wall installations floor to ceiling
Specialty materials like metal or glass
Removal of old backsplashes or wall prep
Electrical and plumbing modifications Contractors have the experience to properly apply adhesives and grout, make precise cuts, and handle tricky tasks like working around outlets. This helps ensure long-lasting results. Get contractor quotes to determine whether professional installation fits your budget.

Some big box stores also offer installation services for products purchased in-store if you want helping hands without hiring a private contractor.

Maintaining Your Backsplash

Your new backsplash is sure to bring years of enjoyment with proper care and maintenance:

Seal porous natural stone and grout annually to resist stains.
Use a gentle cleaner suitable for the backsplash material – avoid abrasive scouring pads.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and wipe spills up right away.
Re-caulk seals along the counter, sink and edges as needed.
Limit direct exposure to sunlight which can fade certain materials.
Check for missing or cracked grout over time and repair as needed to prevent damage.
Contact a pro right away for specialized repairs like leaky plumbing behind the backsplash.

With the right backsplash installation and maintenance, your kitchen or bathroom’s stylish focal point will stay looking like new for decades to come! Which material and look is your favorite for creating a stunning yet functional accent wall?

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Backsplash

Backsplashes make a stylish impact in kitchens and baths, but choosing materials and designing the perfect installation takes consideration. Here are answers to homeowners’ most frequently asked questions about selecting the ideal backsplash.

What should I consider when picking backsplash tile?

Consider the room’s existing design elements like cabinetry, flooring, and fixtures. Coordinate backsplash colors and materials to match or complement the overall aesthetic. Also factor in practical elements like budget, durability, moisture-resistance, ease of cleaning, and DIY skill level needed for installation.

What’s the best backsplash for a small kitchen?

In a small kitchen, opt for slimmer vertical subway tiles, lighter colors to keep it bright, or a minimalist tile shape and pattern. Smaller mosaics bring detail without overwhelming the compact space. Creating distinct backsplash zones by the stove or sink also breaks up the area visually.

Can you use wallpaper as a backsplash?

Yes, removable peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper makes for an easy, affordable DIY backsplash. Choose materials designed specifically for kitchen/bath use with moisture-proof vinyl coatings. Avoid paper-based wallpaper behind sinks or stoves where it can warp. Apply carefully on a perfectly smooth surface.

What is the most popular kitchen backsplash?

Classic white subway tile remains the most popular kitchen backsplash style. The versatile rectangular shape comes in glossy or matte and suits both traditional and contemporary homes. Subway tiles offer tons of grout line layout options from basic horizontal stacks to herringbone designs or geometric centerpieces.

How do you choose grout color?

If using a single tile color, match the grout for a seamless look or go for contrasting grout that makes the tile shape and pattern stand out boldly. With multi-colored tiles or mosaics, choose a neutral mid-tone grout that doesn’t fight the tile hues. Dark grout grounds lighter tiles while light grout opens up a space with darker tiles.

What color backsplash goes with white cabinets?

White upper cabinets pair beautifully with nearly any backsplash color depending on your preferred palette. Contrasting hues like navy blue, emerald green, or glossy black make the cabinets pop. Warm neutral backsplashes in almond, gray, tan, or beige keep the look cohesive. Or match white cabinets with a backsplash in marble white subway tile.

Can you do a backsplash with peel and stick tile?

Definitely! Peel-and-stick backsplash tile panels make for easy, affordable DIY installation. Quality varies though, so opt for thick vinyl over thinner paper tiles. Prepare walls perfectly smooth first, clean thoroughly and use a putty knife to press tiles into place. Avoid moisture-prone areas and consider adding grout between seams for extra hold.

What is the lowest cost backsplash?

Painting a wall with mold-resistant latex enamel paint is the most budget-friendly backsplash option starting under $1 per square foot. Use high-gloss finish for easy wiping. Alternatively, peel-and-stick wallpaper or tile panels create a removable, customizable backsplash on a budget at around $5 per square foot. Check for waterproofing.

How do you cut glass tile?

Cutting glass mosaic tiles takes special care to avoid shattering. Use a wet saw with a diamond glass blade and gentle pressure. Mark cuts with a wax pencil and keep spray bottle handy to wet the tile. Finish edges with glass stone nippers vs. rough plier cuts. Or have the tile store do precision cuts for you.

Can I install a backsplash over existing tile?

It is possible to install a new backsplash right over existing tile, but ensuring proper adhesion is tricky. The old tile surface must be scuffed up for grip. Self-adhesive mosaic sheets specifically made for overlay may be an easier option. But removing old tile first for a fresh start is best for durability.

How to Choose a Backsplash in 6 Simple Steps

Follow this comprehensive yet straightforward process for choosing the perfect backsplash style and material for your kitchen or bathroom needs and budget.

Step 1: Measure the Backsplash Area

Carefully measure the space’s length and height to calculate the square footage.
This determines how much tile is needed and installation costs.
Account for 10-15% extra for cuts, patterns, waste and future repairs.

Step 2: Set Your Budget

Research pricing for materials like tile, stone, metal or wallpaper.
Factor in other supplies like grout, adhesive, and backer board.
Consider hiring a pro if DIY installation is too complex.
Set a total budget and cost per square foot to guide choices.

Step 3: Determine Functional Needs

Consider moisture and stain resistance needed near sinks or stoves.
Look for durability, ease of cleaning and non-conductive materials if backsplash has outlets.
Match practical properties to backsplash area uses.

Step 4: Explore Design Options

Browse backsplash ideas online for patterns, tile shapes, textures and colors suited to your style.
Collect inspiration images and material samples that you love.

How to Choose the Right Backsplash