A subway tile backsplash is a classic and timeless backsplash design that uses rectangular tiles laid out in a brickwork pattern. The tiles are typically 3×6 inches or 4×4 inches, glazed ceramic, and have a slightly beveled edge.
Subway tiles get their name from their resemblance to the white ceramic tiles that line the walls of many subway stations. They have been popular since the early 1900s and continue to be a go-to backsplash choice today thanks to their versatile, classic look.
A Brief History of Subway Tiles
The subway tile dates back to the early 1900s when tiles were first used to line the underground subway stations in New York City. The white 3×6 inch beveled tiles provided a clean, bright finish that could withstand the high traffic of a busy subway station.
These classic white tiles started being used in residential kitchens and bathrooms shortly after. They provided a similar clean, streamlined look that worked well with the Arts and Crafts and Art Deco design movements popular at the time.
The 3×6 inch subway tile has remained one of the most popular backsplash tile shapes since then. Even as new trends come and go, the subway tile remains a timeless choice.
Benefits of Choosing a Subway Tile Backsplash
There are several reasons why subway tiles continue to be a go-to backsplash design even 100 years after they first appeared:
Timeless and Versatile Style
One of the biggest benefits of subway tile is its versatile style. The simple geometric shape and clean white color work with almost any kitchen decor from traditional to modern. Subway tiles are timeless rather than trendy. This means they are unlikely to ever look dated.
Classic Vintage Look
While versatile, subway tiles do lend a slight vintage look to a kitchen. Their resemblance to early 20th century metro tiles gives them an old-fashioned charm. This makes subway tiles a great choice for vintage, retro, cottage, or farmhouse style kitchens.
Easy to Clean
The smooth glazed surface of subway tiles makes them very easy to keep clean. Their resistance to moisture, grease, and grime also makes them ideal for high-traffic areas like a kitchen backsplash.
Cost Effective
Subway tiles are also relatively affordable as far as tile choices go. Their small uniform size allows for an economical installation. Plain white subway tiles start at just a couple dollars per square foot.
Low Maintenance
In addition to being easy to clean, subway tile requires virtually no ongoing maintenance. The durable glazed ceramic finish resists chipping, cracking, or staining.
Provides a Bright Backdrop
The white color of classic subway tiles reflects light well, helping to keep the kitchen bright. This light color also provides a neutral backdrop that lets other colors in the kitchen pop.
Popular Subway Tile Sizes
The most common subway tile sizes are 3×6 and 4×4 inches. However, several other sizes exist as well:
3×6 Inch
The original size, 3×6 inch subway tiles have a distinctly long rectangular shape. The elongated proportions give walls a sense of height. The bricks are laid with the long edge horizontally.
4×4 Inch
Four inch square tiles have a more balanced shape than traditional 3×6 inch tiles. The equal width and height give walls a more contemporary look.
2×4 Inch
A narrower variation, 2×4 inch subway tiles have an even longer, skinnier proportion. The smaller scale adds more grout lines for a more vintage vibe.
6×6 Inch
This larger square tile maintains the balanced shape but with fewer grout lines for a more modern, streamlined look.
Elongated Hexagons
Elongated hexagonal subway tiles offer an interesting twist on the rectangular shape. The six-sided tiles have a distinctly honeycomb look.
Popular Subway Tile Patterns
While the stacked brick pattern is the most common, subway tiles can be installed in other patterns as well:
Stacked Brick Pattern
Laying the tiles in an offset brick pattern is the most traditional technique. It results in staggered vertical grout lines reminiscent of bricks in a wall.
Basketweave Pattern
Basketweave involves laying tiles in alternating vertical and horizontal orientations. This forms a woven, textural look.
Herringbone Pattern
In a herringbone pattern, tiles are laid at 45 degree angles in alternating directions to form a V shape. This style has a more contemporary feel.
Pinwheel Pattern
A pinwheel pattern stars with a central brick and radiates out in a circular pattern. This fun style works best on a backsplash with no corners.
Mirror Image Pattern
One unique look is laying two panels of tiles mirrored, with the central grout lines offset. This creates a reflective, kaleidoscopic effect.
Subway Tile Colors
The most iconic subway tile color is plain white. But today’s subway tiles come in many colors, finishes, and patterns as well. Options include:
White
A bright clean white is the most classic subway tile color. It has a light, open feel and acts as a neutral backdrop.
Light Grey
Light grey has a slightly more modern, soft look than stark white but provides a similar neutral background.
Dark Grey
Darker grey subway tiles have an edgier, urban vibe. Grey with white grout provides nice contrast.
Black
For a dramatic effect, glossy black subway tiles make a bold statement. Use with grey grout to allow the black color to pop.
Beige
Warm beige subway tiles provide a soft, earthy feel. Beige is ideal for more rustic or traditional kitchens.
Cream
Cream has a similar warmth to beige but is slightly lighter. Use it to warm up and brighten a small kitchen.
Blue
Classic navy blue subway tiles lend a nostalgic 1950s diner feel. Use blue as an accent or mix with white.
Green
Earthy sage green subway tiles complement natural elements like wood counters and brass hardware.
Patterned
Modern printed, striped, or mosaic subway tiles add pops of color and visual interest. Use sparingly to avoid busyness.
Subway Tile Finishes
Subway tiles come in a range of finishes from matte to high-gloss:
Matte
A matte finish has no shine and a slightly rough texture. Matte tiles work well for a vintage aesthetic.
Satin
Satin tiles have a low luster shine and smooth texture. They resist staining and fingerprints.
Glossy
Glossy subway tiles have a mirror-like shine. They have a bright, sleek appearance perfect for contemporary kitchens.
Crackled
Crackle finish subway tiles have an antique cracked glaze. This imparts an old-world, aged look.
Metallic
Metallic subway tiles have a high-shine finish that mimics metal or mercury glass. Use metallics sparingly as accents.
Choosing the Right Grout Color
Choosing the right grout color is key to making your subway tiles look their best:
Match the Grout to the Tile
Matching the grout color to the tile minimizes visibility of grout lines for a cleaner look.
Contrast the Grout with the Tile
Alternatively, choose a contrasting grout that complements the tile color. This emphasizes the grout lines.
Grey Grout with White Tiles
A soft grey grout is the most popular choice with white subway tiles. Grey minimizes visibility of dirt.
Dark Grout with Light Tiles
Pairing nearly black grout with white or light colored tiles makes grout lines pop.
Light Grout with Dark Tiles
Conversely, white or off-white grout complements dark navy or black subway tiles nicely.
Design Ideas for Subway Tile Backsplashes
Subway tiles are so versatile they can be incorporated into many kitchen backsplash designs:
All-Over Backsplash
Running subway tile from counter to ceiling makes a bold statement. Use for a true vintage feel.
Partial Backsplash
Using subway tile for just a 4-6 inch backsplash keeps the look clean without overpowering a small kitchen.
Accent Stripe
Add a contrasting strip of subway tile 6-12 inches high near the top of the backsplash as an accent.
Mosaic Accent
Adding a mosaic medallion, line of mosaic tiles, or mosaic tile backsplash provides nice contrast to subway tiles.
Mixed with Other Tiles
Pair subway tiles with glass, marble, or stone tiles for variation. Use subways to frame or accent other tiles.
Mixed Tile Sizes
Using a combination of sizes like 4×4 and 3×6 inch tiles adds interest.
Contrasting Grout Lines
Mixing up grout colors, for example white tile with grey and navy grout, can create a checkerboard effect.
Blended Layout Patterns
Laying subway tiles in a herringbone pattern on the lower portion of the backsplash and vertically stacked on the top part provides nice contrast.
Shape Shaped Layouts
Shaping subway tiles to fit non-rectangular spaces or tiling around an arched window makes a unique layout.
Blended Colors
Blending colors like grey and white, or multiple shades of one color, provides subtle interest.
Subway Tile Outlet Covers and Accents
Don’t forget to incorporate subway tile design into adjacent areas:
Matching Outlet Covers
Replacing standard outlet covers with ceramic tile covers that match the subway tiles gives a coordinated custom look.
Subway Tile Backsplash Niche
Adding a recessed niche faced with subway tile is great for displaying pretty dishware.
Matching Soap Dispenser
Source a soap dispenser or countertop canisters in matching ceramic tile as accents.
Tile Around Window
Subway tiles can be continued around a window over the sink for a seamless integrated look.
Tiled Hood Vent or Shelf
Use subway tiles to finish the underside of a mounted pot rack, wood shelf, or range hood.
Subway Tile Backsplash Installation Tips
Proper installation is key to ensuring your subway tile backsplash lasts for years to come:
- Use a tile backer like cement board behind the tile rather than drywall for moisture resistance
- Check starting surfaces for plumb and level and address any issues to prevent lippage
- Lay out tiles before installing and blend boxes of tile to ensure consistent coloring
- Use a professional grade thinset mortar suitable for the tile type
- Allow proper thinset mortar drying time before grouting
- Use unsanded grout for joints 1/8 inch or less, sanded for wider joints
- Seal grout once fully cured for easier cleaning and stain resistance
- Use molded trim pieces designed for subway tile at edges and transitions
Maintaining a Subway Tile Backsplash
With proper care, subway tile backsplashes will retain their beauty for years. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Seal grout periodically to protect it from staining
- Use gentle cleaners without abrasives to avoid scratching the tile surface
- Clean up spills quickly to minimize staining of the grout
- Re-caulk trim pieces and sealant when cracks appear to prevent moisture issues
- Avoid hanging heavy items on drywall behind subway tiles to prevent cracking
- Have any cracked, chipped, or broken tiles professionally replaced immediately to prevent damage spread
Cost of a Subway Tile Backsplash
The cost of a subway tile backsplash depends on several factors:
- Tile size – 2×4 and 3×6 tiles tend to cost more than 4×4
- Tile finish – handmade crackled or artisan tiles are generally pricier
- Tile color – basic white is the most budget friendly, followed by greys and creams
- Amount of tile needed – large backsplashes require more tile so cost more overall
- Grout color – White grout is the most affordable option
- Labor cost – Contractor installation costs $5-$10 per square foot
Overall, expect to pay $5-$20 per square foot for subway tile itself and $200-$1000 for a professionally installed backsplash.
Alternatives to Subway Tile for Backsplashes
Subway tile offers many benefits but it isn’t for everyone. Alternatives include:
Glass Tiles
Glass tiles add brilliant shine and color. Their transparency gives depth. Drawbacks are lower durability and higher cost.
Metal Tiles
Rustic tin tiles or modern stainless steel tiles add industrial flair. They come at a higher price point than ceramic or porcelain though.
Stone Tile
Marble, travertine, and granite backsplashes convey natural elegance. However, stone requires extra sealing and can stain. Costs are also higher.
Wood Planks
Wood adds beautiful natural pattern and warmth. But wood requires maintenance and isn’t as moisture-resistant as ceramic.
Brick Veneer Panels
Faux brick veneer panels offer the look of brick with easier installation. But the thin panels can lack the richness of real brick.
Beadboard
Beadboard panels add cottage character. Make sure to properly seal the wood, though moisture resistance won’t be as high as tile.
Faux Subway Tiles
Vinyl, laminate, and removable wallpaper with faux subway tile patterns save installation work. However, the look tends to be less realistic.
FAQs
How are subway tiles different from other ceramic tiles?
The main differences are the distinct rectangular proportions, relatively small sizes like 3×6 or 4×4 inches, slightly beveled edges, and traditional installation in an offset brick pattern. The elongated shape and off-white color also give subway tiles their classic vintage metro look.
Are subway tiles outdated?
No, subway tiles are considered a classic tile style that transcends trendiness. Their early 20th century origins give them vintage appeal while their versatility also suits contemporary kitchens.
Do subway tiles only work in vintage kitchens?
No. While they pair beautifully with vintage and farmhouse styles, subway tiles can also look modern, industrial, eclectic, and more depending on colors, grout choices, and overall kitchen design.
Can you use subway tiles on shower walls?
Yes. In fact, their water-resistance and easy cleaning make them well suited for steamy environments like showers. Use cautions sealing grout and preventing water intrusion behind the tile. Smooth gloss tiles can be slippery.
Should subway tiles go all the way to the ceiling?
Continuing subway tile from counter to ceiling makes a bold statement. However, stopping at 4-6 inches above the counter or just below upper cabinets provides a more clean, subtle effect in many kitchens. Consider the overall look you want to achieve.
How do you cut subway tiles?
The easiest option is to have tiles professionally wet saw cut when purchasing. For a few DIY cuts, use a manual snap tile cutter or angle grinder with a diamond tile blade. Use a tile wet saw for large tile orders. Wear proper eye and ear protection.
Can you lay subway tiles vertically instead of horizontally?
Yes. Laying them vertically adds a modern twist. Combining vertical and horizontal orientations in creative patterns takes it a step further. Just be aware that the long thin tiles may be more prone to cracking when laid vertically.
How long will a subway tile backsplash last?
With proper installation and maintenance, subway tile backsplashes easily last 20-30 years or longer. Their durability and timeless quality even make them a great choice in homes meant for resale.
Conclusion
The classic subway tile has remained one of the most popular backsplash choices for over a century, and for good reason. The simple rectangular shape provides a clean, versatile, and timeless look. Subway tiles suit both vintage and modern kitchen designs.
Their durable glazed ceramic construction also makes them easy to maintain as well as budget-friendly. While white is the iconic subway tile color, now they come in a range of colors, shapes, sizes, and finishes to fit any style. Installed in traditional brick pattern or more creative shapes, subway tiles make an excellent and enduring choice for any kitchen backsplash.
So if aiming for a backsplash that is classic yet trend-proof, easy to care for, and can increase your home’s resale value, subway tile is sure to fit the bill. With so many variations available, you can find a subway tile backsplash that perfectly suits your unique kitchen style.