Vertical Tile Backsplash Bring Bold and Modern Look with Vertical Tiles

A vertical tile backsplash can bring a bold, modern look to any kitchen. Using vertically installed tiles in a backsplash is an eye-catching alternative to the standard horizontal tile layout. Vertical tiles create a sleek, contemporary aesthetic that makes a dramatic statement.

Benefits of a Vertical Tile Backsplash

There are many advantages to choosing vertical tiles for your backsplash design:

Visually Striking

Vertical tiles immediately grab your attention. The vertical lines draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of height and making the space appear larger. This makes it an excellent choice for small or narrow kitchens. The directional pattern is dynamic and more interesting than basic horizontal tiles.

Modern Style

Vertical tiles have a sleek, urban vibe perfect for contemporary kitchens. The look is associated with modern architecture and interior design. Vertical tiles in polished, monochromatic colors evoke an edgy, industrial feel.

Unique Layout

A vertical tile backsplash provides the opportunity to install tiles in an unconventional, asymmetrical pattern. Tiles can be installed in staggered columns or a bricklike layout for added visual interest. This creates dimensionality and texture.

Easy Cleaning

With narrow grout lines installed vertically rather than horizontally, a vertical tile backsplash is easier to wipe down and keep clean. The vertical grout channels don’t readily collect grime and grease.

Choices for Vertical Tiles

There are endless options when selecting tiles for a vertical installation:

Tile Types

Subway tile, glass tile, marble tile, and porcelain tile all make striking vertical backsplashes. Subway tile is a classic choice. Reflective glass or marble tile will amplify light. Porcelain stands up well to abuse. Mosaic sheets can also be installed vertically.

Tile Shapes

Vertically oriented rectangular tiles are most common. But square, hexagonal, diamond, penny round, and even irregularly shaped tiles can be eye-catching. Elongated subway tiles and 1″ x 4″ bricks mimic vertical boards.

Tile Sizes

Smaller tiles around 2 inches wide work best. Larger tiles may be too weighty visually. Mini bricks, hexagons, and mosaics keep the vertical lines tight. Extra long subway tiles can be very dramatic.

Tile Colors

Monochromatic vertical tiles in a bold color make a major style statement. Multicolored mosaic tiles offer vibrancy. Contrasting grout color can emphasize the vertical lines. Polished tiles and metallics bring glamour.

Tile Materials

Natural stone like marble and travertine can be installed vertically for organic texture. Recycled glass tile is sustainable and translucent. Metal and porcelain tiles bring reflective sheen. Exotic wood adds warmth.

Design Considerations for Vertical Tiles

Achieving an attractive and functional vertical tile backsplash requires some planning:

Use 100% Vertical Tiles

For maximum effect, avoid mixing horizontal and vertical tiles. Use vertical tiles on the entire backsplash area. Horizontal bands or accent tiles will disrupt the flow.

Select Elongated Tiles

Standard square tiles may appear too stubby when installed vertically. Opt for longer rectangular subway tiles, at least 3 times as high as they are wide. This enhances the soaring vertical lines.

Outline With Horizontal Tiles

Framing the entire vertical installation with horizontal tiles along the top and bottom provides definition. This grounds the look while accentuating the vertical tile direction.

Consider Scale

Oversized vertical tiles can seem imposing and heavy in a small kitchen. Large-scale vertical tiles are best suited to large open kitchens. Adjust tile size to fit the proportions of the space.

Allow For Partial Tiles

Completely avoiding cut tiles may be impossible. Combine full and partial vertical tiles for natural variations. Use edge trim rather than narrow slivers.

Include Accents

Strategically placed accent tiles break up the vertical lines. Contrasting tiles on the stove back or around windows diversify the look.

Use Matching Grout

Make the vertical pattern disappear into the background by matching the grout color to the tile color. This gives a continuous, unbroken look.

Incorporate Horizontal Bands

Defining horizontal bands within the vertical field adds cohesion. Place along the top or bottom, or in between rows. Match or contrast the band tiles.

Consider Countertop Overhang

Make sure there is sufficient overhang space for vertical tiles to fit underneath upper cabinets. Cabinets installed too close obstruct the view.

Installing Vertical Tile Backsplash

Proper installation techniques are needed to pull off the vertical tile look:

Plan Layout

Map out the tile layout and pattern before installing. Measure the space and determine best placement for full and partial tiles. Pencil guide lines.

Use Level Starter Boards

Run level horizontal boards along top and bottom edges. This establishes straight guideline grout channels for vertical tiles to follow.

Check Tile Spacing

Set a few vertical tiles and examine the spacing. Adjust gap width if needed to avoid sliver edge tiles. Plan to hide edges.

Use Proper Setting Material

Choose appropriate mortar suitable for the tile type. This ensures proper adhesion and avoids slippage or cracking of vertical joints.

Install Bottom Layer First

Begin vertical tiles along bottom board first. Work upwards row by row. This prevents slippage and weight stress on lower tile edges.

Use Tile Spacers

Insert spacers between tiles to maintain even grout channel width. Remove spacers before grouting. Inconsistent grout lines look sloppy.

Grout Vertically

Hold float at a vertical angle to force grout into thin joints. Work methodically upward, cleaning as you go before grout dries. Use epoxy grout for a waterproof seal.

Seal Grout

Once the grout has fully cured, seal it to prevent staining and discoloration over time. Re-seal grout every 1-2 years.

With thoughtful planning and seasoned installation, it is feasible for DIYers to achieve pro-looking results with a dramatic vertical tile backsplash. Otherwise, hire a professional tiler for best results.

Vertical Tile Backsplash Ideas

Here are some eye-catching and unique vertical tile backsplash design ideas:

Staggered Subway Tiles

Staggering vertical subway tiles creates intriguing asymmetry. Use offset columns for contemporary flair. Contrast vintage wavy tiles with straight modern gray grout lines.

Alternating Marble and Glass

Combine luxurious marble and refractive glass in rows for layered depth. Polish stone and tile differences play against each other. Keep grout subtle.

Mosaic Chevron Pattern

Faceted mosaic tiles lend themselves to angular zig-zag layouts. Shift rows for 3D effect. Metallic tiles ramp up the glam vibe. Outline entire field in contrasting horizontal tiles.

Slim Wood Planks

Suspending vertical wood planks behind the stove creates a focal point. The organic material contrasts the hard surfaces. Extend wood to ceiling for drama.

Bold Graphic Pattern

Make a graphic statement with high contrast slim tiles in black and white. Straight vertical lines intersecting with strong horizontals dazzle.

Metallic Subway Shimmer

Reflective silver-toned subway tiles with slight color variations shimmer like metal. Use varying tile heights for sculptural appeal. Trim in wood.

Natural Stone Column

A single vertical stack of textured hand-cut stone tiles as a backsplash column creates rustic polish. Flanked by smooth wood grain, it’s the clear focal point.

Making Vertical Tiles Work in Your Kitchen

Vertical tile backsplashes make a gorgeously contemporary statement. But they aren’t right for every kitchen. Consider the following before committing to this trendy look:

Match Architecture Style

Vertical modern tile aligns beautifully in contemporary, industrial, urban, and retro-modern spaces. It clashes with traditional kitchen aesthetics.

Evaluate Kitchen Size

Vertically installed tiles help make small kitchens feel taller and deeper. But they can overwhelm a tiny space. Make sure you have adequate area.

Assess Lighting Conditions

Vertical tiles become a dazzling focal point when illuminated properly. Dark or distant kitchens undermine their visual impact.

Consider Cleaning Needs

Vertical grout lines may trap less grime than horizontal lines. But textured tiles require more regular cleaning attention.

Determine Functionality

The dazzle of verticle tiles outshines horizontal options. But horizontal orientations may suit your functional needs better.

Calculate Project Budget

A pro vertical tile installation has added labor costs. Precision work and potential structural alterations add expense.

With the right kitchen characteristics, a dramatic vertical tile backsplash can be a knockout contemporary design choice. Thoughtful planning and preparation ensures stunning form and function. Vertical tiles in polished colors and sleek textures generate 21st-century style with timeless allure. Tackling the installation or hiring a pro could become a budget and design commitment. But for many, the vertically inspired look is well worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vertical Tile Backsplashes

Here are answers to some common questions about vertical tile backsplash installations:

Are vertical tile backsplashes hard to install?

Professional installation is recommended, but skilled DIYers can manage the task. Careful prep work, using level starter boards, proper tile spacing, and vertical grouting technique are vital.

What tiles work best vertically?

Long rectangular subway-style tiles at least 3 times as tall as they are wide are ideal. Mosaic sheets, small bricks, and tiny shapes adhere well too. Avoid thick handmade tiles.

Should you use accent tiles with vertical backsplash?

Limit accents to keep the strong vertical flow intact. Frame with horizontal tiles along top and bottom edges. Use occasional contrast tiles meaningfully as focal points.

How do you cut mosaic tiles vertically?

Mark sheet layouts on mesh backing and cut sections with aviation snips. Use a wet saw for partial tiles along edges. Take care to minimize broken tile edges.

Should vertical backsplash go all the way to ceiling?

Full ceiling height installation makes the biggest impact but may not be feasible. Go as high as possible. At minimum, extend tiles above countertops to meet bottom of cabinets.

How do you clean vertical tile backsplash?

Use mild soap and water applied with soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive cleansers. Move vertically from top to bottom. Reseal grout annually.

Conclusion

A vertical tile backsplash can infuse any kitchen with contemporary style and visual intrigue. Sleek, modern, and sculptural, it becomes a focal feature that transforms the aesthetic. Vertical tile installations demand careful planning regarding tile type, layout, grout color, and installation technique. But the stunning results are well worth the effort and expense. This on-trend look brings dynamic texture, light play, and a modern vibe to kitchen backsplashes. Visually opening up space, defying design conventions, and capturing attention, vertical tiles inspire as both art and architectural anchor. A vertical backsplash immediately makes a tasteful, audacious style statement.

Vertical Tile Backsplash Bring Bold and Modern Look with Vertical Tiles