A bathroom backsplash is an important design element that serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. Installing a backsplash in your bathroom can help protect your walls from water damage while also adding visual interest and tying together your bathroom’s decor.
What is a Backsplash?
A backsplash is a vertical surface, typically made of tile, installed on the wall behind a countertop, sink, or other fixture. Backsplashes are commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms to protect the walls from splashes and spills. The term “backsplash” refers to the function of “splashing back” against the surface to prevent water and grime from directly contacting the drywall or plaster wall behind.
In a bathroom, a backsplash is most often installed behind the vanity sink and counter, though it can also be added behind bathtubs and showers. Bathroom backsplashes are highly functional, preventing water damage and mold growth on walls. But they also serve an important decorative purpose, letting you add visual interest, color, and texture to complement your bathroom design.
Benefits of Adding a Backsplash in Bathroom
There are several key reasons to install a backsplash in your bathroom:
Protects Against Water Damage
The number one reason to add a backsplash is to protect the walls from moisture damage. Water splashing against bathroom walls during daily use can cause drywall to deteriorate over time. Tile or other water-resistant backsplash materials create a barrier to keep this moisture from seeping into vulnerable wall materials.
Prevents Growth of Mold and Mildew
By preventing moisture from penetrating walls, a backsplash also helps inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Bathrooms tend to be damp environments. Without a backsplash, persistent moisture can lead to unsightly and potentially hazardous mold taking hold on drywall, in grout, and caulking.
Easier to Clean
Backsplash tile and other smooth materials are very easy to wipe clean. This makes maintenance easier versus drywall, which is prone to collecting dirt, grime, and stains over time with bathroom use.
Adds Visual Interest
While practical in purpose, a backsplash offers a great opportunity to add eye-catching style. Colorful or patterned tile, natural stone, glass, or metal backsplashes can tie together bathroom decor or add a striking focal point.
Increases Resale Value
Bathroom upgrades like a backsplash pay off when it comes time to sell. Backsplashes are expected in today’s bathrooms and add value for potential buyers. Homes with dated, damaged bathrooms tend to sell for less.
Customizable Design
With the wide range of tile shapes, mosaics, colors, and materials like glass and metal, you can design a completely custom backsplash. This allows you to match or complement your sinks, faucets, shower enclosures, and other bathroom features.
Popular Types of Backsplashes for Bathrooms
There are many material options for bathroom backsplashes, but ceramic tile is by far the most common choice because it is water-resistant, easy to clean, affordable, and available in endless style options.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles offer durability and water resistance along with customize color, pattern, and texture options. Subway tiles, mosaics, and larger format tiles are popular bathroom backsplash tile styles. Tiles can be glossy or matte.
Natural Stone Tile
Slate, marble, and granite backsplash tiles provide upscale, sophisticated style. However, natural stone is more porous than ceramic or porcelain tile and requires more maintenance.
Glass Tile
Glass mosaic and frosted glass tiles impart a shiny, sleek contemporary look. Glass tiles feature vivid colors and designs. They are also recyclable. Keep in mind glass tiles require careful grouting.
Metal Tile
Metal backsplashes like stainless steel, copper, and tin tiles add brilliant gleam along with durability. This is a modern, eye-catching option for contemporary bathrooms.
Stone and Quartz Slabs
Large slabs of materials like quartz, marble, and granite can be used to create a seamless backsplash look. While pricey, natural stone slabs are luxurious and durable.
How High Should a Bathroom Backsplash Be?
The standard height recommendation for a bathroom backsplash is 4 inches above the counter or vanity top. However, you can adjust the backsplash height based on your bathroom design:
- For a standard height backsplash, go 4 inches above the counter.
- For a full height backsplash, extend tiles from counter to ceiling.
- For a contemporary minimalist look, opt for a short 2-3 inch backsplash.
- Behind bathroom sinks, full height backsplashes help protect walls from mirror condensation drips.
- Behind bathtubs, extend tile 2 feet above tub rim as minimum splash protection. Full height is best.
Make sure your backsplash choice aligns with the overall bathroom design. Measure carefully, as you want to minimize awkward uneven gaps where the backsplash ends.
How to Install a Tile Backsplash in the Bathroom
Installing a tile backsplash is a manageable DIY weekend project for a basic backsplash. To install:
Step 1. Prepare the Wall Surface
- Remove existing wallpaper, paint, or other materials.
- Fill any holes or cracks and sand smooth.
- Apply waterproof drywall sealer. Tile won’t adhere to drywall without it.
Step 2. Plan Backsplash Layout
- Decide on tile arrangement, using spacers for consistent grout lines.
- Measure and mark tile location on wall, using a level.
Step 3. Apply Thin Set Mortar
- Apply thin set mortar evenly to the wall area using a notched trowel.
Step 4. Mount Backsplash Tiles
- Press tiles firmly into mortar. Push toward surrounding tiles for tight fit.
- Build out tile rows, wiping away excess mortar as you go.
- Allow to cure 24 hours before grouting.
Step 5. Grout and Seal
- Spread grout over the tiles and let sit briefly before wiping clean.
- Apply grout sealer once fully cured, per product directions.
To save time on installation, consider using backsplash panels like beadboard or laminate sheets, rather than individual tiles.
Backsplash Design Ideas for Bathrooms
From materials to colors and patterns, you have countless ways to design a bathroom backsplash. Consider one of these attractive backsplash ideas:
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6” subway tiles arranged in a brick pattern instantly give a clean, timeless look. Go for glossy finish.
Horizontal Planks
Long rectangular ceramic tiles or porcelain plank tile laid horizontally promote a relaxing spa vibe. Choose beige, white, or wood-look planks.
Contrast Grout
Use light tiles with dark grout or vice versa for added drama. Bold grout lines become part of the design.
Geometric Shape Patterns
Use hexagons, circles, triangles, diamonds, or other shaped tiles in colorful patterns for a playful effect.
Stacked Stone
Rustic stacked stone tiles in neutral shades evoke nature with style. This works with farmhouse, traditional, or eclectic bathrooms.
Large Format Tiles
Oversized tiles 12” or larger placed vertically create a sleek, seamless look. Effective for contemporary bathrooms.
Glass Mosaic Accent
Add a glass mosaic tile sheet as an accent stripe or geometric focal area against more simple wall tile.
Mirror Tiles
Mirrored tiles configured in fun patterns add major reflective shine and visual interest.
Cost to Install a Bathroom Backsplash
The cost of installing a backsplash in a bathroom runs $6-$20 per square foot on average for DIY materials, or $450-$1,200 for a typical 5×8 ft bathroom. Hiring a pro averages $50-$100 per hour for installation labor.
Factors impacting total backsplash costs:
- Tile material costs, with glass, metal or stone tiles being most expensive
- Specialty shaped or mosaic tiles versus basic squares
- Number of tile sheets needed, based on backsplash size
- Mold-resistant drywall, thinset, grout, tools
- Hiring a tile installation contractor rather than DIY
FAQs About Bathroom Backsplashes
Should I seal my bathroom backsplash?
Yes, it is highly recommended to apply grout sealer to a newly installed bathroom backsplash. Sealing the tiles and grout will add water protection and help prevent staining, mildew growth, and having to frequently re-grout.
What’s the best grout to use on a bathroom backsplash?
Epoxy grout is ideal for bathroom backsplashes because it resists moisture, mold, and mildew better than regular cement grout. Use white epoxy grout for a clean look.
How do I cut bathroom backsplash tiles?
Ceramic tiles can be cut to fit around outlets, pipes, or edges using a wet saw or manual tile cutter. Make precise measurements before cutting tiles to avoid errors.
Should backsplash tile match floor tile in a bathroom?
Matching floor and backsplash tiles can look flat and monotonous. Contrasting colors, textures, and shapes helps the backsplash stand out as an accent.
Can I install a backsplash with acrylic caulk instead of grout?
Though caulking is easier, it is not recommended. Caulk sealants don’t last and will need replacing. Grout provides a much more durable finish.
Conclusion
Installing a backsplash is one of the best ways to improve both the look and functionality of any bathroom. With the right backsplash tile and attention to careful installation, you can protect your bathroom walls in style. From subway tiles to stone accents, the design possibilities are endless. Just be sure to seal the grout once installed. Your new backsplash will keep your walls pristine and provide a beautiful focal point in the room for years to come.