A backsplash is a protective surface that is installed on the wall behind a sink, stove, or other appliance in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where water damage is possible. The main purpose of a backsplash is to protect the walls from splashes, spills, and stains. Backsplashes also serve decorative purposes, allowing homeowners to add visual interest, color, and style to their kitchen or bathroom designs.

What Materials are Used for Backsplashes?

There are many different materials used for backsplash installation, each with their own unique properties, pros and cons. Some of the most popular backsplash materials include:

Tile

Tile is one of the most common and versatile backsplash materials. Ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone tiles come in a vast array of sizes, shapes, colors, textures, and patterns. Tiles are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to water damage. The grout lines between tiles can be prone to staining and discoloration over time if not properly sealed. Tile backsplashes provide endless design options.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel backsplashes have a modern, sleek, and industrial look. Stainless steel is water-resistant, easy to clean, and durable. It offers a reflective surface that can make kitchens appear more open and spacious. Stainless steel backsplashes are typically made from sheets of metal installed onto the wall. Keep in mind that stainless steel can show fingerprints, smudges, and scratches readily.

Glass

Glass tile and solid glass sheets make for a gorgeous, shiny backsplash. Glass styles range from translucent to opaque in all colors and finishes. Glass is impervious to water, though it can break or shatter if impacted. Smooth glass surfaces are easy to clean. Frosted or textured glass diffuses light beautifully.

Stone

Natural stone like granite, marble, and slate have an elegant, upscale appearance as backsplashes. Stone is sturdy, heat-resistant, and waterproof. Stone backsplashes can be pricey, as stone is a high-end material. The porous nature of natural stone requires sealing to prevent stains.

Metal

In addition to stainless steel, other metal materials like zinc, copper, and aluminum can add contemporary, industrial flair to backsplashes. Metals come in sheet, penny tile, and other forms. Durability and water-resistance make metal backsplashes ideal for kitchens. However, metal may dent and can develop a patina or tarnish over time.

Wood

Wood brings natural warmth and texture to backsplashes. Wood backsplash panels consist of planks, shingles, 3D tiles, or mosaic patterns. Woods like teak and bamboo resist water fairly well. However, moisture can cause wood backsplashes to swell, crack, or cup over time. Annual sealing is recommended for wood backsplashes.

Concrete

Concrete backsplashes have an edgy, modern look, with the unique variation and texture that concrete naturally possesses. Concrete is durable, heat-resistant, and waterproof. Concrete can be polished, stamped, or stained in an array of colors. It does require sealing to prevent staining. Unsealed concrete is prone to absorbing liquids.

Brick

Both real brick and faux brick veneer panels make for a charming backsplash with vintage character. Brick backsplashes have a classic, rustic feel. Brick is hardy and naturally water-resistant. Authentic brick can be left natural or painted. Faux panels are molded for brick appearance without weight.

Plywood

Plywood provides a budget-friendly backsplash option. The wood backsplash is cut according to measurements, painted or stained, then caulked and sealed. Plywood backsplashes should be kept away from direct contact with moisture. The layered wood composition helps minimize warping from humidity.

Laminate

Laminate backsplash panels are made by fusing decorative paper between resin or plastic. Formica and Wilsonart are popular brands. Laminate comes in wood grain, stone, and abstract patterns. Low cost and ease of installation are laminate backsplash benefits. Laminate withstands moisture well but can be prone to chipping.

Beadboard

Beadboard offers cottage-chic style as a backsplash. Thin, grooved wooden planks are arranged in decorative beadboard patterns. Primed and painted beadboard withstands moisture and stains quite well. A beadboard backsplash delivers a charming, vintage feel on a budget.

Wallpaper

Today’s wallpapers are durable and water-resistant, making wallpaper a viable backsplash option. From removable self-adhesive papers to acrylic-coated palettes, wallpaper backsplashes make a serious style statement. Seams may be visible. Wallpaper lacks hardiness for direct contact with water and heat.

Where are Backsplashes Installed?

Backsplashes are installed in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other areas prone to water exposure. Here are some of the most common backsplash locations:

Behind the Kitchen Sink

The kitchen sink area sees near-constant water use, making it a prime backsplash location. A sink backsplash takes splashes from faucet use, prevents staining from greasy cleanup jobs, and keeps the wall behind the sink looking great.

Behind the Kitchen Stovetop

Stovetop backsplashes guard against oil splatters, sauce splashes, and other cooking messes. Without a backsplash, stove walls become covered in grime. A backsplash keeps stovetop walls clean while adding accent colors to kitchens.

Behind Kitchen Counters

Continuing backsplashes along kitchen countertops and workstations helps protect the wall from incidental spills and drips during food prep and cooking. Full backsplash coverage across kitchen walls maintains cleanliness and aesthetics.

Around Bathtubs and Showers

Backsplashes around tubs, showers, and the bathroom sink suffer from daily exposure to soap scum, toothpaste spittle, and water streams. A properly installed bathroom backsplash resists moisture and prevents mold growth on vulnerable walls.

Behind Laundry and Utility Sinks

Like kitchens, laundry and utility rooms get a lot of water action from sink use. Backsplashes around utility/laundry sinks keep wall surfaces protected from drips, leaks, and overspray. Sturdy materials stand up to bleach, detergents, and other chemicals.

Around Bars and Beverage Areas

Home bars and entertaining areas are prone to drink spills and glassware condensation. Backsplashes lining drink counters, beverage refrigerators, and bar sinks help minimize stains on surrounding walls in party zones. Water-resistant materials handle splashes.

Around Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens and BBQ areas deserve backsplash protection too. Outdoor backsplashes withstand UV rays, temperature fluctuations, grease drippings, and food prep detritus while adding color. Materials like stone, tile, and stainless steel hold up to the elements.

Tips for Choosing a Backsplash

Selecting a backsplash involves important considerations like your design style, kitchen layout, budget, and materials. Keep these tips in mind when planning a backsplash installation:

Consider the overall look you want to achieve – modern, rustic, vintage, minimal, or bold. Let this guide your material and color choices.
Measure your backsplash area accurately to determine the square footage needed. This assists in budgeting and material purchasing.
Inspect existing wall conditions to look for damage, uneven surfaces, or problem areas requiring repair before backsplash installation.
Choose durable, water-resistant, easy-to-clean materials that stand up to moisture, grease, and daily wear-and-tear. Avoid porous surfaces that absorb liquids readily.
For kitchen backsplashes, avoid flammable materials that cannot withstand heat exposure from stoves and ovens.
Look at backsplash examples in home inspiration photos or home improvement centers to spark ideas. Bring color or material samples home.
Coordinate your backsplash with countertops, flooring, paint colors, cabinetry, and other kitchen or bath elements for a cohesive look.
Consider special pattern designs, mosaic medleys, accent tiles, or mixing materials to add visual interest to your backsplash.
Hire an experienced professional installer for proper backsplash implementation, unless you are highly skilled in tiling or backsplash techniques.

How are Backsplashes Installed?

Proper backsplash installation is key to getting maximum protection and longevity from the surface. Here is an overview of how backsplashes are professionally installed:

Preparation

Remove existing backsplashes or wall coverings if present. Inspect the wall and repair any damage. Ensure the surface is smooth, dry, and ready for application of backsplash materials.

Planning

Take detailed measurements of the backsplash area. Map out your tile or panel layout and design. Purchase all materials and tools needed.

Mounting Surface

Install cement backerboard, Hardibacker, or other appropriate substrate over the wall to mount backsplash tiles or panels to.

Dry Fitting

Dry fit tiles or panels by placing them on the mounted surface before permanently adhering. Check for proper fit and layout.

Applying Adhesive

Spread thinset mortar adhesive evenly across the backsplash area using a notched trowel. Work in small sections.

Setting Tiles or Panels

Carefully press tiles or panels into the adhesive. Use spacers between tiles. Allow adhesive to set according to manufacturer instructions.

Grouting Tile (If Applicable)

Push grout into the joints between tiles using a rubber grout float or squeegee. Wipe away excess grout. Allow grout to dry completely.

Sealing and Finishing

Use caulk between the backsplash and countertops/walls. Seal grout and natural stone materials. Clean the new backsplash thoroughly before use.

Tips for DIY Installation

For DIY backsplash projects, watch online tutorials to learn proper techniques. Have all tools and materials ready. Take your time and don’t rush the job. Follow all adhesive instructions.

Backsplash Maintenance Tips

Like any surface, backsplashes need regular care and maintenance to uphold their beauty and function over time. Here are handy backsplash cleaning and care guidelines:

Seal porous stone, grout, and wood annually with specialty sealants made for backsplash materials.
Use mild, gentle cleaners and soft cloths or sponges only. Harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubs can damage surfaces.
Rinse backsplashes with clean water and wipe dry after cleaning to prevent buildup of residue.
Don’t allow messes to stick. Promptly wipe up spills, splatters, and water to avoid stubborn staining.
Re-caulk areas that show shrinking or cracking of caulk joints around edges. This prevents moisture getting behind the backsplash.
Limit direct exposure of sensitive materials to extreme heat, prolonged water contact, or concentrated chemicals that can cause damage.
Check for loose or cracked tiles, dents, peeling, cracks, or other issues needing repair. Address promptly to avoid further damage.
Refresh wall paint above the backsplash as needed to keep the transition between the two looking seamless.

With proper care, quality backsplash materials can maintain their integrity for many years while protecting your walls. Always refer to your specific backsplash manufacturer’s care instructions as well. Taking time to regularly clean and inspect your backsplash pays off with long-lasting beauty.

Backsplash Design Ideas and Trends

Backsplashes present almost endless possibilities for adding color, texture, and personality to your kitchen or bath. On-trend backsplash designs include:

Mix-and-Match Tile

Blending an array of complementary tile shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns creates visual intrigue. Line up Subway tiles, set hexagons as accents, or insert decorative inlaid tiles.

Graphic Tile

Bold, graphic tile designs, like black and white geometric patterns or vibrant oversized florals, pack drama into backsplashes.

Dimensional Tiles

3D tile shapes like fish scale tiles, penny rounds, or convex diamonds add sculptural depth to backsplashes in glossy or matte finishes.

Moroccan-style Tile

Intricate zig-zag and starburst tile motifs in vibrant hues evoke exotic Moroccan themes. Accent with iridescent glass subway tiles.

Handpainted Tile

Tiles individually hand-painted with artistic motifs, sketches, or landscapes offer backsplashes personalized flair.

Textured and Crackle Finishes

Glazes that mimic leather, linen, crackled paint, rough concrete, or stone surfaces add tactile appeal to tile backsplashes.

Colorful Grout

Boost plain white tile with bold, colorful grout lines in hues like emerald, cobalt, crimson, or citrus yellow. Or try two alternating grout colors.

Metallic Accents

Add touches of brilliance with metallic backsplashes or tiles with silver, gold, copper, or bronze finishes that catch the light enticingly.

Rustic Wood

Reclaimed wood planks in natural hues, installed vertically, imparts rustic farmhouse style even beside sleek, modern finishes.

Oversized Subway Tile

Subway tiles enlarged to double or triple the standard size provide contemporary edge with hints of vintage charm.

Mosaics

Tiny glass, stone, or ceramic pieces in mosaic sheets create shimmering backsplash accents behind sinks, stoves, and counters.

Backsplash Cost Considerations

Backsplash installation costs vary based on the size of the project, materials chosen, labor expenses, and other factors. Here are some costs ranges to consider:

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: $10-$40 per sq.ft. installed
Glass, Stone or Metal Tile: $15-$50 per sq.ft. installed
Stainless Steel: $40-$100 per sq.ft. installed
Wood or Laminate Panels: $10-$30 per sq.ft. installed
Concrete: $20-$45 per sq.ft. installed
DIY Materials Only: $3-$15 per sq.ft.
Professional Installation Labor: $5-$10 per sq.ft.

To budget for a backsplash, measure your space and multiply by price per square foot for chosen materials and estimated labor. Remember to account for extras like sealants, grout, adhesive, trim pieces, and design accents. Get 3+ estimates to compare fair costs.

Backsplash Design and Installation Professionals

For intricate backsplash designs or challenging installation spaces, seek out skilled backsplash professionals near you.

Tile Showrooms

Tile showrooms offer displays of product styles while housing knowledgeable staff that can help you select tiles and materials. Many provide installation services.

Tile Installers and Contractors

Seek tilers or contractors experienced at backsplash installations if you need installation assistance. Check portfolios and read reviews. Meet in person to evaluate reliability.

Kitchen and Bath Remodelers

Kitchen and bath remodeling companies usually have expertise in performing full backsplash installations as part of remodels.

Design Showrooms

Stop by kitchen, bath, and interior design showrooms to view backsplash vignettes and work with designers on backsplash visualizations.

Interior Designers

Interior designers help create complete backsplash design plans tied to the aesthetics of your whole space while guiding material and color choices.

With endless options for materials and styles, a stunning, protective backsplash awaits your dream kitchen or bath. Define your design goals, settle on the right materials for the space, and carefully plan installation for backsplash success.

What is the Backsplash? FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions about backsplashes:

Q: Why do you need a backsplash?

A: Backsplashes serve the important purpose of protecting walls behind appliances, counters, and sinks from water damage, stains, and other wear. They preserve surfaces that see a lot of use.

Q: How high should a backsplash be?

A: Typically backsplashes extend 4-6 inches vertically from the countertop surface. However, you can install backsplashes as high as you prefer – even a full wall of tile. Standard heights suit most uses.

Q: Can you put backsplash tile on drywall?

A: Tile should be installed atop a cement board or water-resistant substrate like Hardibacker rather than directly on drywall. Drywall alone lacks water resilience.

Q: What color backsplash goes with white cabinets?

A: Bold hues like navy blue, emerald green, rich brown, and black provide striking contrast beside white cabinetry in kitchens. Soft neutrals like beige, gray, and white also keep the palette light and bright.

Q: Should backsplash match countertop?

A: It’s not mandatory, but matching materials or coordinating colors between the backsplash and countertop creates a harmonious look. Contrasting can also be pretty if tones complement each other.

Q: How do you attach a backsplash to the wall?

A: Backsplash tiles or panels are firmly adhered to cement board, Hardibacker underlayment, or another prepared surface on the wall using thinset mortar, construction adhesive, screws, or manufacturer recommended products.

Conclusion

Installing a backsplash is an impactful way to protect vulnerable walls while also adding beauty and interest to kitchens, bathrooms, and utility spaces prone to water exposure. With myriad materials like tile, metal, stone, glass, and wood to choose from, backsplashes offer personalized ways to express your style. Planning size, color, and material carefully while prepping your surface will lead to long-lasting backsplash success. Consider pairing your shiny new backsplash with fresh countertops, cabinets, or fixtures for a complete kitchen or bath transformation.