Installing a beautiful backsplash is one of the best ways to update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. A new backsplash can transform the space by adding visual interest, color, and texture. Finding the right tile for your backsplash project can truly elevate the design. But where exactly can you find quality backsplash tile? Here are some of the best places to shop for backsplash tile near you.
Big Box Home Improvement Stores
The big box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s are go-to destinations for backsplash tile. They offer an extensive selection of ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone tile in a variety of sizes, colors, and patterns. You can easily find classic subway tile, mosaic sheets, large format tiles, penny rounds, and tile trim. The stores also have knowledgeable sales associates who can answer questions and provide product recommendations. The major home improvement retailers carry brands like MSI, Daltile, American Olean, and Hampton Bay. Be sure to ask about any sales or clearance items when shopping the backsplash section.
Local Tile Showrooms
Specialized tile showrooms in your area are another excellent option for finding backsplash tile. These showrooms offer a gorgeous curated selection of high-quality tile. You’ll find tile lines from top designers along with custom, handmade, and artisan tiles you won’t find anywhere else. The staff at these showrooms are extremely knowledgeable and can help you pull together the perfect backsplash design. They may even have sample installations on display so you can fully visualize how a tile will look as a backsplash. Many tile showrooms also offer professional installation services.
Online Retailers
Shopping online opens up so many possibilities for backsplash tile. Online tile retailers like Wayfair, Overstock, and TileBar have a huge, diverse selection of backsplash tile that comes right to your door. You can view and order tile direct from manufacturers too. Browse tile websites to find tiles made from different materials like handpainted ceramic, glass subway, marble, and natural stone. Specialty retailers like Fireclay Tile, Heath Ceramics, and Clé Tile provide artisan, handcrafted tile. Be sure to order samples first to see the tile quality and colors in person. Most online stores also have excellent return policies if the tile doesn’t meet expectations.
Warehouse Discount Stores
Check warehouse stores in your area like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale for backsplash tile deals. These stores receive shipments of tile in popular shapes, finishes, and colors sold at a discount. They mainly offer ceramic, porcelain, and mosaic sheets. Inventory tends to turnover quickly, so shop these stores often if you’re looking for a bargain. You may even be able to find high-end tile brands at a significant markdown. Always check the tile quality before purchasing.
Salvage Stores and Resellers
For a unique backsplash, visit salvage stores and resellers in your area. You’ll be surprised at the deals you can find on tile from construction surplus, overstocks, and more. Places like Habitat for Humanity ReStores have counters, floors, and walls already tiled that can be reclaimed. Use a heat gun to carefully remove the tile and reuse it for your backsplash. Architectural salvage warehouses also have bins of discontinued and surplus tile available at cheap prices. eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can also yield great secondhand tile finds.
Tile Wallpaper
As an alternative to traditional tile, consider tile wallpaper from companies like Tempaper and Chasing Paper. Peel-and-stick tile wallpaper comes in all sorts of styles from vintage and floral to traditional tiles and geometric. It provides the look of a real tile backsplash with easy, fuss-free application. Many brands offer removable and repositionable options perfect for renters.
DIY Tile Kits
For a fun DIY project, make your own tile backsplash using a kit. Get all the supplies you need in one package from brands like Art3d and Stacked Tiles. These kits include adhesive mesh sheets, tile strips or squares, and grout. Some also come with decorative accents and tools. The peel-and-stick tiles make installation a breeze. This is a great budget option for small backsplash areas.
Factors When Choosing Backsplash Tile
Keep the following factors in mind as you shop for backsplash tile:
- Color – Select a tile color that complements your cabinetry, countertops, appliances and overall design style. Neutrals like white and gray pair well with most color schemes.
- Size – Small mosaics make a big impact. Go for larger tiles and fewer grout lines for a seamless look.
- Material – Ceramic and porcelain are durable, affordable options. Natural stone adds elegance while glass and metal provide shine.
- Texture – Consider tiles with interesting textures and patterns like handpainted, crackled, fish scale and subway brick.
- Gloss Level – Matte tiles help hide kitchen messes and reflect less light. Glossy tiles amplify light and colors.
- Price – Balance your budget with tile quality. Always account for the cost of required installation materials like backerboard and grout.
- Availability of Accent Pieces – Many tile collections include accents like borders and listello. These pieces nicely finish off a backsplash design.
Six Places to Find Backsplash Tile Near Me
- Big box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s for the widest selection of quality, affordable tile from leading brands.
- Local tile showrooms that offer gorgeous designer tiles along with professional design expertise.
- Online retailers like Wayfair and Overstock for convenient online ordering and huge product variety.
- Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club for discounted pricing on surplus tile.
- Salvage stores and resellers for reclaimed and vintage finds.
- DIY tile kits from Art3d and Stacked Tile for fun, budget-friendly projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backsplash Tile
What kind of tile is best for a kitchen backsplash?
Ceramic, porcelain and glass tile are best for backsplashes since they are water-resistant and easy to clean. Subway tiles, mosaics, and small format tile styles make great backsplash choices.
How much does it cost to install a tile backsplash?
The cost to install a tile backsplash ranges from $500 to $2000 depending on the tile, square footage, labor rates and installation complexity. Professionally installing a 20-30 sq ft basic subway tile backsplash averages $1000.
Can you install tile backsplash over existing backsplash?
In most cases, new tile can be installed over an existing backsplash. The old tile must be well-adhered. Additional surface prep like skim coating may be needed to create a smooth surface for the new tile.
What tools do I need to install a tile backsplash?
Basic tools for tiling a backsplash include a tile cutter, carbide grout saw, mixing buckets, notched trowel, grout float, sponges, tile spacers and grout sealer. You may also need a drill and special bits for cutting holes.
What color grout should I use for kitchen backsplash?
For most kitchen backsplashes, unsanded grout is recommended. Choose a grout color that matches or blends with the tile color for a seamless look. For white subway tile, use white, light gray or off-white grout.
How do you cut tile around outlets?
Use a rotary tool or oscillating multi-tool to cut precise openings for outlets and switches in ceramic wall tile. Turn off electricity. Outline the box edges. Drill a hole inside the lines and make relief cuts outward to the lines. Carefully remove tile sections to create the opening.
Conclusion
Installing a new backsplash tile provides big visual impact and style to your kitchen or bath at a relatively affordable price. Now that you know where you can buy quality backsplash tile from big box stores to specialty tile showrooms, you can start shopping for the perfect tile. Bring home tile samples to view in your space. Many retailers also offer free design services to assist with tile selection and layout. With proper planning and preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle the backsplash project of your dreams. The end result will be a gorgeous, personalize backsplash you’ll enjoy for many years.