Quartz countertops are popular in kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and easy maintenance. When pairing quartz counters with a backsplash, you want to choose materials and colors that coordinate well visually while also considering function. This complete guide will examine stunning backsplash ideas that go beautifully with quartz.
An Overview of Quartz Countertops
Before diving into backsplash pairings, let’s first look at what makes quartz counters so popular:
- Durability – Quartz is an engineered stone made from ground quartz crystals blended with resins and pigments. This makes quartz harder and more scratch-resistant than natural stone.
- Low Maintenance – Quartz resists stains, etching, and heat better than marble or granite. Simple cleaning with soap and water keeps quartz looking pristine.
- Stylish Appearance – With a wide array of colors and patterns, quartz brings stylish flair. The look can mimic natural stone or have a more modern vibe.
- Non-Porous – Unlike porous natural stones, quartz won’t harbor bacteria or need sealing.
With strength, beauty, and practicality, it’s no wonder quartz counters appeal to homeowners, builders, and designers alike. But the look isn’t complete without an equally gorgeous backsplash!
Factors To Consider When Selecting a Quartz Backsplash
Several factors come into play when pairing a backsplash with quartz countertops:
Aesthetics
You want the backsplash to coordinate and complement the quartz’s colors and patterns. The backsplash should look cohesive with the overall kitchen or bath design too.
Functionality
Consider the functional needs of the space. For example, materials that withstand moisture, grime, and heavy use make sense behind sinks and stoves.
Cost
Backsplash materials range dramatically in price. Keep costs within budget while achieving the right visual impact.
DIY Skill Level
Some backsplash materials are easier to install than others. Factor in your skill level if doing it yourself.
With those key considerations in mind, let’s explore stunning, on-trend backsplash ideas for quartz counters!
Gorgeous Backsplash Pairings for Quartz Countertops
1. Tile Backsplashes
Tile offers endless options for stunning quartz backsplashes. Choices include:
- Ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles
- Square, subway, mosaic, or hexagon tile shapes
- Matte, glossy, or textured tile finishes
- Single tile color or multi-colored patterned tiles
Benefits of tile backsplashes:
- Tile comes in every color, allowing you to match or complement your quartz counters.
- Durability for heavy use areas like behind stoves.
- Moisture-resistance makes tile perfect for bathroom shower and tub surrounds.
- Easy DIY installation with thinset mortar.
- Inexpensive tile choices fit any budget.
When choosing tile, select colors in the same tone and intensity as your quartz. For example, both light grays or rich browns. Contrasting tones can look disjointed.
#### Tile Backsplash Design Ideas:
- All-white kitchen – Bright white subway tiles match crisp white quartz counters and cabinets.
- Marble-look quartz – Carrara marble-look porcelain tiles complement the gray veining.
- Vintage kitchen – Penny round tiles in antique brass, copper, or nickel bring retro flair.
- Modern style – Sleek quartz paired with glass or stone mosaic tiles creates contemporary cool.
2. Stainless Steel Backsplashes
Stainless steel backsplashes lend an industrial vibe that pairs well with modern quartz countertops.
Benefits of Stainless Steel:
- Highly moisture-resistant for sinks and stove areas.
- Easy to keep clean and disinfect.
- Metal surface reflects light, brightening the space.
- Affordable and quick DIY installation with adhesive.
- Durable and dent-resistant surface.
Stainless Steel Backsplash Ideas with Quartz:
- A single sheet of stainless behind a kitchen sink and stove cooktop.
- Using metal tiles instead of sheets for an eye-catching mosaic look.
- Mixing stainless steel with glass tile accents.
- Choosing brushed or hammered finishes for texture.
- Incorporating stainless steel trim edging along the countertops.
3. Glass Tile Backsplashes
Sleek glass tile backsplashes blend seamlessly with contemporary quartz countertops. The translucency and shine of glass illuminates the space beautifully.
Benefits of Glass Tile:
- Adds luminous color, sheen, and texture.
- Available in limitless colors to match quartz.
- Resilient surface works well behind stoves.
- Moisture-resistant for bathrooms.
- Quick installation with thinset adhesive.
- Glass mosaic tiles create captivating patterns.
Glass Backsplash Ideas with Quartz:
- Rainbow glass mosaics paired with neutral quartz.
- Metallic glass tiles matching a quartz with veining or flecks.
- Frosted or textured glass for a soft glow.
- Clear glass lined with metal or stone accents.
- Using different glass tile shapes for visual interest.
4. Natural Stone Backsplashes
For organic beauty, natural stone backsplashes complement quartz’s modern vibe. Quartz mimics patterns found in nature, so pairing it with real stone is harmonious.
Great Natural Stone Options Include:
- Marble backsplashes with dramatic veining
- Travertine for rustic, earthy textures
- Slate or sandstone offering subtle striations
- Pebble stone mosaic bringing eclectic charm
Pro tips for pairing natural stone backsplashes with quartz:
- Select stones in a similar color family. For example, creamy off-white quartz works nicely with light beige, grey, and white marbles or travertines.
- Consider finish too. Honed travertine softens a glossy quartz surface.
- Contrasting veins and patterns add liveliness. Try lively blue veined marble with neutral quartz.
- alternate shapes for interest. Mix stone mosaic sheets with marble subway tiles.
5. Wood Backsplashes
Wood backsplashes infuse natural warmth and texture. Durable wood-look porcelain or ceramic tiles effectively mimic real wood at a lower cost.
Benefits of wood-look tile backsplashes:
- Easier maintenance than genuine wood.
- Resists moisture better than actual wood.
- Available in planks, chevron, hexagon, and herringbone patterns.
- Compliments both cool and warm quartz hues.
- Relatively easy DIY installation.
Eye-catching ways to incorporate wood-look backsplashes with quartz:
- Barnwood planks with creamy white quartz for farmhouse charm
- Espresso-toned wood paired with vivid white counters
- Geometric patterns boost modern style
- Chevron herringbone bricks aligned with quartz waterfall edges
- Alternating real wood cutting boards with wood-look ceramic tiles
With proper sealing, real reclaimed wood can also be a dramatic (though high maintenance) backsplash choice for Quartz counters.
Other Unique Finishes for Quartz Backsplashes
Beyond the most popular backsplash materials, some unique finish options include:
Brick, Rock Veneer, and Faux Terra Cotta
Rustic textures like brick and stacked stone complement quartz’s sleekness. Faux finishes offer realism without the weight. Add grout for realistic mortared appeal.
Metal Backsplashes
In addition to stainless steel, backsplashes come in copper, brass, bronze, nickel, and more. Often installed in forms like subway tiles, chevron, or penny rounds.
Recycled and Eclectic
Get creative using vintage bottles, old coins, broken dish shards, or salvaged tin ceiling tiles. Great for an artsy, eclectic space!
Wallpaper and Vinyl
Pasted up wallpaper or peel-and-stick vinyl films offer cool graphics and colors. Use removable kinds to switch up the look down the road.
Quartz Backsplash Installation Tips
Proper installation ensures your backsplash and quartz play nicely together long-term:
- Thoroughly clean the countertop and remove any waxes or coatings.
- Always use trim pieces between the countertop and backsplash. This allows for differing amounts of movement and prevents damage.
- Follow all manufacturer instructions for installation materials and methods.
- For heavy stone backsplashes, utilize a strengthened wall or additional support to bear the weight without stressing the countertops.
- Take time to properly grout and seal tile or stone to keep moisture from penetrating behind.
With careful prep and installation, you’re sure to enjoy a beautiful, trouble-free backsplash with your quartz counters for years of pleasure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Backsplashes
Looking to install a backsplash with your new quartz countertops at home? Here are answers to some common questions on making the perfect pairing:
What backsplash goes best with white quartz?
White quartz pairs beautifully with nearly any color backsplash since white serves as a light, neutral base. Popular white quartz backsplash ideas include:
- White marble or subway tiles
- Gray, blue, or green glass mosaic tiles
- Warm woodlook planks
- Stainless steel
- Weathered white bricks
Matching whites keep the look seamless. Bold colors add eye-catching contrast.
Does quartz need a backsplash?
It’s not mandatory, but backsplashes are highly recommended for quartz for both form and function. The backsplash protects the wall from splashes, stains, and moisture damage. It also gives the finished look polished style when coordinating with the counters.
What about using the same quartz slab as the backsplash?
Using matching slab quartz on the walls can look beautiful, but has some downsides. Full quartz sheets are heavy, often requiring wall reinforcement. The minimal grout lines also create a more sterile, uniform look rather than the visual interest that tile backsplashes provide.
Should the backsplash color match my quartz?
It’s not essential to perfectly color match. Accent colors in the backsplash often pop better. But generally staying in complementary hues in the same tone and intensity prevents clashing.
Is it cheaper to do a full quartz backsplash rather than tile?
Surprisingly, no. The thicker full slabs required for walls, extra labor, weight support needs, and precise fabrication make solid quartz backsplashes much more expensive than tile. Stick with tile for the best value.
How do I finish quartz to tile transition with no bullnose?
Installing trim like schluter metal strips provides a clean finish between quartz and tile. Bullnose tiles can also ease the transition while giving a decorative touch.
What backsplash looks best with blue quartz?
Blue quartz counters really pop against backsplashes in shades of white, light gray, silver, glossy brick, or different blue tones and patterns. Glass or stone mosaic tiles in complementing shades of blue are also eye-catching.
Achieving a Flawless Backsplash for Quartz Counters
With limitless options for colors, textures, materials, and patterns, you’re sure to find the perfect backsplash pairing for your installed quartz countertops. Keeping the overall look cohesive while adding your own personal style results in a finished kitchen or bath both beautiful and functional for years to come. What backsplash will you choose?