A backsplash is an important design element in any kitchen that serves both form and function. Not only does a backsplash provide a protective barrier against water damage, it also acts as a decorative focal point that can tie your whole kitchen design together. However, backsplash materials like tile or stone can get quite expensive. If you’re looking to add a backsplash on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options to create a stylish accent wall without breaking the bank.

Gather Supplies for a Do-It-Yourself Backsplash

Installing a backsplash yourself rather than hiring a professional can save you a lot of money. Here are some of the basic supplies you’ll need:

Backsplash materials – Sheet metal, beadboard, plastic panels, and peel-and-stick tiles are budget-friendly options. Gather enough to cover your backsplash area.
Tools – A tape measure, level, utility knife, caulk gun, and screw gun or hammer will get the job done.
Adhesive – Choose construction adhesive, liquid nails, or silicone caulk to affix your backsplash materials to the wall securely.
Grout – If using tile, be sure to have grout and a grout float to finish filling in gaps.
Sealant – A waterproof sealant will help protect the materials from moisture damage.

With these supplies and tools on hand, you’ll be ready to tackle a simple, money-saving backsplash installation.

Consider Inexpensive Backsplash Materials

There are many inexpensive alternatives to choose from to create a basic backsplash on a budget:

Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tiles

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles have become widely available and affordable. Made from materials like lightweight plastic or resin, they have a self-adhesive backing that makes installation a breeze. Peel-and-stick tiles come in all sorts of styles – from marble, travertine, and subway tile patterns to acrylic, metal, glass and mirror tiles. Choose a simple tile design in a color scheme that matches your kitchen decor for an instant transformation.

Sheet Metal

Metals like tin, aluminum, or stainless steel can be purchased in sheets to create a sleek, industrial backsplash. Cut the sheets to size and secure them directly to the wall with adhesive. Sheet metal is waterproof and ultra-durable. Go for galvanized steel or corrugated tin sheets to save money. Finish with a coat of paint if desired.

Beadboard

Beadboard offers charming cottage style at a fraction of the cost of tile. Use primed beadboard panels cut to size and adhere them in a brickwork pattern for visual interest. Coat with a food-safe sealant for protection. Paint the beadboard any color to suit your kitchen. Distress the paint for some chippy, vintage character.

Removable Wallpaper

Today’s removable wallpaper makes installing a backsplash easier than ever. Peel and stick wallpaper rolls and apply them to the backsplash area, allowing you to change up the look in the future. Choose a marble, geometric, floral or terrazzo print to bring big style for little money. Use textured wallpaper for extra dimension.

Reclaimed Wood

For a rustic backsplash, use reclaimed wood planks. Distressed barn wood or salvaged wood cut into boards works perfectly. Attach the wood vertically or horizontally depending on your design. Leave natural or give a coat of paint to brighten up the wood backsplash.

Prepare the Backsplash Area

Installing an affordable backsplash takes some careful prep:

Remove any existing backsplash material like tile or wall covering.
Clean the wall thoroughly and fill any holes or uneven spots with spackle for a smooth surface.
Measure the backsplash area and cut your material to size as needed.
Mark the outlet locations so you can cut out areas to accommodate them.
Apply painter’s tape along the edges for clean lines.

Preparing the backsplash area properly will ensure your inexpensive materials adhere correctly for a seamless finished look.

Install Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tiles

Here is a simple step-by-step guide for installing peel-and-stick backsplash tiles:

Clean the backsplash area thoroughly and let it dry completely.
Measure and mark a level line at the bottom edge of the backsplash area to guide your first row of tiles.
Cut the first row of tiles to fit if needed and peel off the backing. Apply the adhesive side of the tiles to the backsplash area, pressing each one firmly for 30 seconds.
Use a grout float or small roller to smooth out any air bubbles.
Continue applying the backsplash tiles row by row from the bottom up, using spacers to ensure even gaps if desired.
Use a utility knife to cut any outlet areas or irregular spaces.
Seal around edges with caulk and wipe away excess.

Let the backsplash cure for 24 hours before exposing it to moisture. Enjoy your new faux backsplash!

Install a Sheet Metal Backsplash

Follow these steps for installing a budget-friendly sheet metal backsplash:

Measure the backsplash area and cut metal sheets to size using tin snips.
Mark a level line to guide the bottom sheet placement. Apply construction adhesive to the back of the sheet.
Press the metal sheet to the wall firmly for maximum stick and smooth over the surface. Use a nail gun or screws for extra strength.
Apply adhesive to the next sheet and overlap the two sheets slightly for stability. Rivet overlapping edges.
Secure all remaining sheets row by row, wiping away any excess adhesive as you go.
Use silicone caulk to seal all seams and metal edges nicely.
Let dry completely before exposing to moisture. The metal backsplash is ready to withstand wear and tear!

Create a Rustic Wood Backsplash

Want a wood backsplash on a budget? Follow these simple steps:

Select reclaimed wood planks and cut them to desired length. Distressed barn wood works great.
Stain or paint the wood if desired for extra color and protection.
Measure and mark a level line at the base of the backsplash area. Apply adhesive to the back of the first wood plank.
Press the wood plank to the wall firmly. Brad nail the corners for extra strength if needed.
Adhere the next piece, overlapping the two slightly. Continue applying the wood planks row by row.
Use wood filler in small gaps and sand any rough edges for a smooth finish.
Seal the wood with a non-toxic sealant for water protection.

Your warm, rustic wood backsplash will add cozy farmhouse charm on a dime!

Get Creative with Discount Materials

Don’t limit yourself to conventional backsplash materials to save money. Get creative with these frugal finds:

Scrap wood pieces – Use odd wood cuts, shiplap or plywood for an eclectic look.
Recycled glass – Crushed glass in resin creates a glittery glass backsplash effect.
Bottle caps – Flatten and glue metal caps in decorative patterns for industrial whimsy.
Painted paper – Coat paper with sealant and apply for artsy wallpaper.
Contact paper – Adhere white or patterned paper for a quick textured look.

With clever thinking outside the box, you can craft a cheap backsplash unique to your style and space.

Incorporate Found Items into the Design

Don’t throw away items – repurpose them for a one-of-a-kind frugal backsplash:

License plates – Screw randomized plates to the wall in funky orientations for kitschy rustic style.
Jar lids – Affix colorful mason jar lids in eye-catching patterns for a playful accent wall.
Sea glass – Adhere beach glass shards, sea pottery or porcelain pieces for an ocean-inspired mosaic.
Marbles – Use industrial adhesive to set marbles, stones or pebbles to form modern textures and shapes.

Installing discovered items helps cut down on backsplash materials costs significantly. Let your creativity run wild!

Paint an Accent Color on the Wall

For the easiest budget backsplash, skip the pricey materials and use interior house paint instead.

Clean and prep the backsplash area as usual. Fill any imperfections in the wall.
Tape off clean border edges along the sides and bottom.
Paint your desired accent color directly onto the wall. Consider a deep hue for drama or sheen for interest.
Remove the tape once dry and seal with a clear coat for extra durability.

The brilliant paint color helps define the backsplash space beautifully with minimal effort and expense.

Consider Temporary Backsplash Options

Some affordable backsplash ideas are only temporary, but let you switch up your kitchen’s look for the price of a few removable materials:

Chalkboard paint – Turn the backsplash into a functional chalk wall that can be erased and updated.
Wall decals – Decorate with removable wall stickers in trendy patterns and colors.
Wallpaper – Use peel-and-stick wallpaper for an easy to install, easy to remove backsplash.
Faux tin ceiling tiles – These decorative stick-on tiles imitate a Victorian aesthetic nicely.

With temporary backsplash options, you can change your mind without regretting permanent investments down the line.

DIY Functional Backsplash Alternatives

While protective, a full backsplash may not fit everyone’s budget. Consider these functional backsplash alternatives:

Hanging Stove Shelf

Install a decorative hanging shelf over the stove top to display cooking essentials with style while protecting the wall. Opt for a vintage flea market find, reclaimed barn wood shelf, or modern floating shelf made of stained wood.

Magnetic Knife Bar

Mount a magnetic knife bar or strip near the cutting area to keep essential cooking knives within reach and avoid cutting into your walls. Choose a simple brushed metal bar or fun distressed wood knife holder.

Pot Rack

Pot racks free up storage space and highlight your stylish cookware. Install a hanging pot rack with hooks above the stove top. Opt for industrial pipe fittings or a warm wood wine rack style.

Herb Planter

Fresh herbs enliven any dish. Mount wall planters filled with your favorite cooking herbs like thyme, rosemary and oregano. Let them grow in galvanized buckets, terra cotta pots, or built-in wall planters.

Consider Low-Cost Updates Over Time

Can’t afford your dream backsplash all at once? Build up your kitchen over time with incremental affordable updates:

Start with peel-and-stick backsplash tiles just behind the stove. Expand the tiled area later.
Paint or wallpaper the backsplash area first. Add beadboard panels or shiplap planks over time.
Install a basic backsplash border along the edges only. Fill in the middle section down the road.
Change backsplash materials with the seasons. Try wallpaper in spring, metal sheets in summer, wood in fall, and paint accents in winter.

With a plan to update incrementally, you can take on small, budget-friendly backsplash projects now while working toward your ultimate kitchen vision.

Clean and Maintain an Affordable Backsplash

Caring for a budget-friendly backsplash helps it retain its beauty:

Wipe up spills and splatters quickly to prevent staining, especially with porous materials like wood.
Clean gently with diluted dish soap, warm water and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
Reseal grout annually. Apply fresh sealant to wood, metal, beadboard and painted surfaces when needed.
Use painter’s tape when working near a DIY backsplash to prevent damage.
Take extra care not to puncture peel-and-stick tiles, contact paper or other delicate finishes.

With proper maintenance and cleaning, even the most affordable backsplashes can maintain their visual appeal and function for years before needing replacement.

Common Questions about Inexpensive Backsplash Projects

How much does it cost to do a backsplash yourself?

Installing a backsplash yourself costs a fraction of hiring a pro. Budget $3-5 per square foot for affordable peel-and-stick tiles. Basic beadboard starts around $10 per 8-foot panel. Tin sheets cost $15-25 depending on metal type and thickness.

What is the cheapest option for a backsplash?

Paint is the most affordable backsplash choice. A gallon of quality interior paint costs $25-50 to cover the average backsplash area multiple times. Peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper also starts around $25 for various patterned options.

Can you put backsplash tile directly on the wall?

It is possible to apply backsplash tiles directly to the wall with construction adhesive without needing backer board. Ensure the wall surface is extremely clean, dry, smooth and free of glossy paint. The tiles may not adhere as long-term without a proper substrate material.

What can I use as a cheap backsplash?

All kinds of materials can provide an inexpensive backsplash option: beadboard, tin ceiling tiles, faux brick panels, wallpaper, reclaimed wood, patterned contact paper, plexiglass sheets, chalkboard paint, removable wall decals, metal duct panels, and more.

How do you decorate a backsplash on a budget?

To decorate an affordable backsplash, paint the wall a fun accent color, stencil on patterns, highlight focal points with peel-and-stick mosaic tiles, frame it with trim boards, or install floating shelves to hold decor items. Layering inexpensive materials like wallpaper and painted wood molding can add depth.

Conclusion

Adding a backsplash is one of the best ways to amp up any kitchen’s style, but it need not drain your wallet. With smart planning and a little DIY spirit, you can install a beautiful, creative backsplash on any budget using readily available materials. Whether you favor the look of metal, wood, wallpaper or simply a splash of paint, embrace the opportunity to make your backsplash uniquely you. A personalized, penny-pinched backsplash will bring charm and function to your cooking space for years to come.

How to Make a Cheap Backsplash