An outdoor kitchen backsplash serves both form and function. Not only does it protect the wall from splatters and spills, but it also adds visual interest to your outdoor living space. With so many backsplash options to choose from, it can be tricky to settle on the perfect look. Eye-catching backsplash designs for outdoor kitchens run the gamut from natural stone and ceramic tile to metal and glass. Consider the overall style of your yard when selecting an outdoor kitchen backsplash. An intricate patterned tile can complement a Mediterranean courtyard, while a sleek stainless steel backsplash pairs well with a contemporary aesthetic. Let’s explore some of the most captivating choices for outdoor kitchen backsplashes.
Gorgeous Stone Backsplashes for Outdoor Kitchens
Natural stone immediately elevates an outdoor kitchen, infusing it with texture and earthy elegance. From marble, travertine and slate to quartzite and granite, stone surfaces make a sophisticated style statement.
Granite Backsplash
Few materials can compete with the timeless beauty of granite. This natural stone backsplash option features stunning striations, veins and speckles for one-of-a-kind character. The durability and water-resistance of granite make it an ideal choice for outdoor kitchen backsplashes. A polished granite backsplash contributes a glossy, stylish finish. Or, opt for a honed or brushed surface for a soft, matte texture. For a truly unique look, mix various granite slabs in a mosaic pattern.
Marble Backsplash
Marble delivers an instantly luxurious feel with its crystalline appearance and elegant veining. Carrara and Calacatta are two popular varieties, noted for their white backgrounds and gray veining. Though marble requires sealing to prevent stains, its upscale aesthetics make it one of the most coveted stones. Use marble to create impact as a full backsplash or as an eye-catching accent strip.
Travertine Backsplash
Travertine brings rustic Tuscan charm to outdoor kitchens. Formed by mineral deposits in natural hot springs, travertine displays a subtly textured surface marked by small cavities and pits. This gives it an appealing aged, timeworn look. To enhance the antique character, opt for a tumbled finish. Install a travertine backsplash in its natural state or fill the pits for a smoother appearance.
Slate Backsplash
With its layered, foliated structure, slate delivers a boldly textured look. Slate backsplashes come in muted natural shades of gray, blue, purple, black and green that reference the great outdoors. For added visual punch, incorporate varying sizes and shapes of slate pieces. Lean into the natural cleft slate surface or choose a smooth honed finish. This handsome stone withstands high temperatures and is simple to clean.
Sandstone Backsplash
Sandstone is appreciated for its subtle banding and variegated colors, which range from beige and caramel to red and brown. A sandstone backsplash grants the outdoor kitchen an earthy, Southwest style. Sandstone is porous but can be sealed to help prevent staining. For added durability, opt for a natural quartzite sandstone. Prioritize proper sealing and maintenance if using sandstone behind a grill.
Bluestone Backsplash
Bluestone is a classic architectural stone prized for its adaptability and enduring good looks. Its soft, muted blue-gray hue emanates a relaxed vibe. From a monochromatic mosaic to a mix of varied sizes and shapes, bluestone’s organic texture brings warmth to contemporary and cottage style spaces alike. A bit more maintenance is required for this porous stone, but it’s a small trade-off for the charming appeal of bluestone.
Lively Tile Backsplash Ideas
Vibrant tile in countless colors, prints and textures supplies eye-catching style to outdoor kitchen backsplashes. Tile offers a high-performing, easy-care option that handles humidity and high temperatures with grace.
Ceramic Tile Backsplash
Glazed ceramic tile withstands the elements beautifully while adding a pop of color and sheen. Sleek solid tiles, like subway tiles, provide a clean modern backdrop. Alternatively, make a statement with an energetic patterned or handpainted tile backsplash. Rustic terracotta tiles in earth tones imbue a sense of Tuscany. For added dimension, install tile in a herringbone or stacked pattern.
Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Denser and more durable than ceramic, porcelain tile is an ideal choice for outdoor areas. Available in a spectrum of solid hues and realistic stone and wood looks, porcelain tile brings beauty along with unmatched performance. Large format tiles, like 12″ x 24″, make installation fast and seamless. The color consistency of porcelain tile prevents the patchwork look that can plague natural stone backsplashes.
Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass mosaic tile infuses eye-catching radiance into an outdoor kitchen backsplash. Tiny glass tiles reflect light beautifully, creating a glittering effect. Glass tile comes in every color of the rainbow, along with metallic, iridescent and mirrored options for serious wow factor. Combining glass mosaic tiles with larger tiles provides contrast and visual interest. Just be aware that glass requires careful installation and diligent sealing.
Metal Tile Backsplash
Metallic backsplashes lend an ultra-modern, industrial vibe to outdoor kitchens. Stainless steel, zinc, copper and aluminum metal tiles have an electrifying glint. Brushed metal finishes have rich texture. The sleek, durable design works in contemporary spaces, and metals like copper and zinc transition well to vintage or farmhouse settings too. Using metal tile behind a grill is smart, as it can withstand high heat.
Captivating Metal Backsplash Ideas
From stainless steel to galvanized metal, metallic backsplashes reflect style. Metal backsplashes are waterproof, heat-resistant, durable and easy to sanitize – making them ideal for outdoor kitchens. Here are inspiring ways to incorporate metal backsplashes:
Stainless Steel Backsplash
A stainless steel backsplash provides a commercial-grade finish. Often found in professional kitchens, stainless steel offers durability along with a clean, contemporary look. Sleek stainless steel sheets make a bold statement and act as a heat shield behind grills. For a warmer, more textured appearance, opt for a brushed finish or tin backsplash.
Copper Backsplash
Copper instantly classes up an outdoor kitchen with its warm, refined glow. The patina finish of copper evolves charmingly over time, developing a unique aged character. Use copper panels, tiles or cladding to create an accent backsplash that ties into vintage design details like bronze hardware fixtures. Keep in mind that regular maintenance is required to prevent copper from oxidizing.
Zinc Backsplash
With its naturally weathered, charcoal gray finish, zinc has an industrial-chic vibe perfect for contemporary spaces. Introduce gorgeous gray veining and texture with a zinc backsplash. Raised seams between zinc sheets boost the visual appeal. Allow the patina to evolve, or use sealant to keep the finish uniform. Pair zinc with stainless steel appliances for a sleek, eye-catching look.
Galvanized Metal Backsplash
A galvanized metal backsplash invokes cottage farmhouse charm with its rough-hewn weathered texture. Use full sheets or a patchwork of galvanized metal panels to create rustic texture and dimension. Allow galvanized metal to patinate naturally or maintain its silvery sheen with sealant. The industrial aesthetic works well in modern and country design schemes alike.
Rust-Resistant Metal Backsplash
For a fuss-free metal backsplash, opt for a rust-resistant metal like aluminum or galvalume. Bare aluminum backsplashes have an appealing shine, while anodized aluminum offers a durable clear oxide finish. Or choose a baked enamel aluminum backsplash for low-maintenance color. Galvalume is a coated steel product that combines the corrosion resistance of aluminum and zinc for exceptional weather resistance.
Eye-Catching Glass Backsplashes
From sleek glass sheets to colorful mosaics, glass backsplashes make a gorgeous statement. Durable and easy to clean, glass also reflects light beautifully. Here’s how to work glass backsplashes into your outdoor kitchen design:
Glass Tile Backsplash
Nothing brightens up an outdoor kitchen like the glittering radiance of glass mosaic tile. Tiny glass tiles come in a kaleidoscope of colors, from vibrant solids to shimmering metallic. Use blue and green glass tile to evoke a cool watery oasis. For major visual impact, install a full wall of mosaic glass tile behind the grill or bar area.
Clear Glass Backsplash
Sleek and streamlined, a clear tempered glass backsplash protects the wall while maintaining visibility. Frosted and smoked glass options provide translucent privacy. Lay the glass over colorful tile or painted walls to add dimension. Keep safety in mind – go with tempered glass in case of breakage, and avoid seamless glass sheets behind cooking surfaces.
Recycled Glass Backsplash
Upcycle wine bottles, dishes or other glass pieces into a unique colorful backsplash. Set glass shards in mortar, adding artistry through varied shapes, sizes and colors. A recycled glass mosaic backsplash provides a sustainable focal point while keeping items out of the landfill. Add mirrors or marbles for extra dazzle. Just take care to use tempered glass and avoid sharp edges.
Pebble Glass Backsplash
With its bubbly undulating texture, pebble glass tile livens up the backsplash zone. The raised glass surface refracts light, creating subtle shimmer. Available in clear and colors like blue, green and brown, pebble glass tile brings dynamic impact indoors or out. Accent with polished tiles and listello for contrast. Use pebble glass to create a decorative border or statement backsplash wall.
Enchanting Stone and Tile Combinations
Blending stone and tile creates an ultra-luxe yet inviting backsplash. Natural stone evokes elegance and organic texture, while sleeker tile lends pops of color and visual vibrancy. Here are some chic combinations sure to mesmerize:
Marble + Ceramic
Pair the timeless beauty of marble with handpainted or geometric ceramic tile for enlivening contrast. Imagine classic Carrara marble accented with navy and white Spanish-inspired ceramic tile, for example. Use marble for the grill surround and continue into the backsplash area with attention-grabbing ceramic tile designs.
Travertine + Glass
Rustic travertine block tile balanced by glittering glass mosaic tile makes for an intriguing blend of textures. Introduce color with turquoise, blue or sea green glass tile. Let the glass motif accentuate select areas like the focal backsplash behind the range or bar zone. This juxtaposition of organic and sleek feels both naturalistic and elegant.
Granite + Porcelain
Combine hardy natural granite with durable porcelain in complementary tones for an upscale finish. Imagine a countertop and lower backsplash in stunning black galaxy granite, with a polished white porcelain subway tile backsplash above. Granite’s speckled complexity works in perfect harmony with crisp white tile.
Sandstone + Metal
Earthy sandstone gains a more contemporary edge when teamed with the sleek industrial look of metal tile. Envision golden sandstone countertops and lower backsplash accented by a gleaming stainless steel mosaic tile backsplash. The naturally striated stone plays off the futuristic metal.
Bluestone + Glass
Muted tonal bluestone gets a vibrant accent from patches of translucent glass tile. Use sea green or sky blue glass to echo the soft blue-gray coloring of the stone. Bluestone’s weathered finish stands out beautifully against shiny glass. Alternate glass and stone to build visual interest.
Incorporating Colorful Painted Accents
Don’t overlook painted backsplashes – they provide budget-friendly pops of color! Painting the wall behind the grill, prep zone or bar creates a cheerful focal point. Here are some eye-catching ways to integrate color with paint:
- Paint a grasscloth or geometric pattern behind the range for visual punch. Use exterior paint formulated to withstand moisture.
- Paint the back wall a bright, sunny hue like golden yellow and adorn with painted ceramic tiles.
- Create an ombre or color wash effect, blending blues or greens on the backsplash wall.
- Stencil meaningful words like “Eat & Drink” or botanical designs onto the backsplash area.
- Paint tiles or stone before installation for an instant color change without renovations down the road.
With proper primer and paint formulated for outdoor use, painted backsplashes provide an easy, budget-friendly route to energizing your outdoor kitchen’s style!
Designing a Showstopping Outdoor Kitchen Backsplash
When designing your ideal outdoor kitchen backsplash, consider the overall style you want to convey. Spanish farmhouse? Sleek contemporary? The backsplash presents a prime opportunity to create visual impact, so choose materials that really capture your personality and design vision.
Here are some tips for crafting a jaw-dropping outdoor kitchen backsplash:
- Survey the big picture before finalizing backsplash plans. Look at cabinetry finishes, countertops, flooring and furnishings to envision the total style.
- Think about sun placement. Darker stone can get hot in full sun. Prioritize heat reflection if needed.
- Don’t be afraid to mix materials! Blend stone, tile, metal or glass for textural intrigue.
- Incorporate exterior-rated lighting for a dazzling illuminated backsplash.
- Arrange tile or stone in an interesting layout like herringbone, chevron or stacked. Great for stone and metal.
- Layer contrasting materials. Ex: rustic stacked stone topped with sleek metal sheet.
- Know your budget. While natural stone is premium, porcelain and ceramic tile offer realism for less.
- Install properly and seal regularly. Enlist pros and use outdoor-grade sealants to prevent damage.
With limitless options for adding wow factor, the outdoor kitchen backsplash is a chance to showcase your unique personal style. Choose eye-catching materials you’ll love admiring and enjoying for years to come!
FAQs about Outdoor Kitchen Backsplashes
What is the best material for an outdoor kitchen backsplash?
The best backsplash materials for outdoor resilience are stone, tile, metal, glass and high-grade paints. Granite, marble, slate and travertine are excellent natural stone options. Tile choices like porcelain and ceramic also handle the elements beautifully while allowing bold colors and prints. Stainless steel, zinc, copper and aluminum work nicely for metal backsplashes. For glass, look to tempered and treated materials. Ensure all materials are properly sealed.
What backsplash is heat resistant?
Metal backsplashes like stainless steel, zinc and copper can withstand high heat. Glass tiles work too if made from heat-resistant glass. Stacked stone tolerates heat better than flat stone slabs. Avoid flammable backsplash materials behind grills and cooktop surfaces.
How do you attach a backsplash outside?
Always use exterior-rated construction adhesives, mortars and grouts when installing an outdoor backsplash. Most standard backsplash materials like tile, metal panels and glass adhere with mastic or thinset mortar rated for exterior use. Follow manufacturer instructions closely and enlist a professional installer for best adherence.
Should you seal an outdoor backsplash?
Regular sealing is crucial for outdoor backsplashes, especially natural stone which is porous. The sealer prevents liquids from being absorbed into the material and causing permanent staining and damage. Re-apply exterior-grade sealant to stone, grout and unglazed tile every 1-2 years. Metal and glass also benefit from routine sealing for maximum longevity.
How do you finish an outdoor backsplash edge?
Finishing the edges of your backsplash materials properly is key to a clean, integrated look. Edges of tile or stacked stone often incorporate metal trim pieces, L-channels or bullnose tiles. Chiseled stone edges can also be lovely. You can run metal backsplash sheets directly into side walls or terminate in an L-trim. Seek pro tips for your material to direct water runoff and allow seasonal expansion.
Conclusion
The outdoor kitchen backsplash presents a fun opportunity to add eye-catching style. Natural stone like granite, marble and travertine bring enduring sophistication, while tile options supply vibrant color and pattern. Metals from sleek stainless steel to rustic zinc make a serious style statement. For a stained-glass effect, glass tile enchants. And don’t discount painted backsplashes – they allow creativity on a budget! Blend materials for captivating contrast and focus on durability. With proper installation and sealing, your outdoor kitchen backsplash will dazzle and stand the test of time. Let this essential space express your personal taste and elevate the entire outdoor living experience.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.