Kitchen backsplashes not only protect your walls from water damage and stains, but they add visual interest and charm to any kitchen design. With so many options for materials, colors, and patterns, choosing the right backsplash tile can be an exciting process. Here is an in-depth guide on where to find beautiful, high-quality kitchen backsplash tiles for your next renovation or remodel.
Benefits of Installing a Backsplash
Before deciding where to purchase your backsplash tile, it’s helpful to understand the benefits of installing one in your kitchen:
- Protects your walls – Backsplashes prevent moisture from destroying drywall, wallpaper, or paint behind sinks and countertops. They provide an impervious surface that is easy to clean.
- Adds personality – From sleek subway tiles to ornate mosaics, backsplash tiles allow you to put your own creative stamp on your kitchen.
- Increases resale value – Tastefully designed backsplashes are expected in today’s kitchens. Upgrading with backsplash tile can increase your home’s value.
- Easier maintenance – Backsplash tiles like glass or ceramic are a cinch to clean compared to drywall. Their durable surfaces just need a quick wipe down.
With so many perks, it’s easy to see why installing a backsplash tile is a smart choice.
Where to Shop for Backsplash Tiles
When considering where to buy your kitchen backsplash tile, you have plenty of options:
Home Improvement Stores
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s have an extensive selection of backsplash tile in just about every material and style imaginable. Even better, you can view tile samples in person before purchasing. Just be aware that the tiles may be priced slightly higher than specialty tile stores.
Tile Showrooms
Visiting a tile showroom allows you to see a huge variety of tile all in one place. Showrooms offer everything from natural stone and ceramic to glass and metal tiles. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you in selecting the perfect backsplash.
Online Retailers
Shopping online opens up a world of backsplash tile possibilities without leaving your home. Retailers like Wayfair and Amazon sell direct to consumers and offer great prices. Be sure to order samples to view tiles in person before purchasing.
Stone Yards
For natural stone tiles, visiting local stone yards allows you to hand select stone slabs and work with them to fabricate your customized backsplash. This option gives you the most design flexibility.
Habitat for Humanity ReStores
For budget-friendly finds, check out Habitat for Humanity ReStores. You can uncover donated tiles for mere dollars per square foot. Their inventory is hit or miss but can yield exciting vintage finds.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Backsplash Tiles
Keep the following factors in mind as you shop for your perfect kitchen backsplash tiles:
Materials
Common backsplash tile materials include ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal, natural stone, and mosaics. Consider aspects like durability, water-resistance, ease of cleaning, and style.
Cost
Prices per square foot range greatly, from $1 per square foot for stone tiles to $50 per square foot for hand-painted tiles. Set a budget beforehand and stick with tiles you can afford.
Color/Design
Look for colors and patterns that coordinate with your cabinetry, countertops, and overall kitchen decor. Accent colors in the backsplash can pull your whole design together.
Ease of Installation
Some backsplash tile materials like mosaic sheets are much easier and less time consuming to install than intricate patterns or mixed tile sizes. Factor in complexity.
Grout Considerations
Lighter grout can get dirty easily. Epoxy grout is more durable and stain resistant. Match your grout color to the tile or go with a contrasting shade.
By keeping these key factors in mind, you’ll be prepared to select the perfect backsplash tile for your unique kitchen.
Where to Buy Kitchen Backsplash Tile Near Me: Top Local Shops
Once you’ve narrowed down the type of backsplash tile you want, here are some recommended local showrooms and retailers worth checking out:
The Tile Shop
With over 200 stores across the US, The Tile Shop is a leading specialty retailer carrying a vast collection of ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone backsplash tiles. Their design experts can help you pull together a custom backsplash design.
Bedrosians Tile & Stone
For high-quality stone tiles, Bedrosians Tile & Stone has a great selection of natural stone including marble, travertine, and granite. They have multiple locations across many states.
Emser Tile
Emser Tile specializes in unique artisan and handcrafted tile for backsplashes and walls. They have many brick-and-mortar locations nationwide as well as online ordering.
economytile.com
This ecommerce site sells directly to consumers online, offering wholesale prices on top name brand tiles. Order samples and they’ll ship quickly.
Modwalls
Modwalls offers an inspiring collection of artsy and modern backsplash tile designs you won’t find elsewhere. Their tiles are handmade in California.
Marazzi Tile
Marazzi sells stylish porcelain and ceramic backsplash tiles to distributors and designers. Check their site to find retailers near you that carry Marazzi.
Tilebar
In addition to an online showroom, Tilebar has retail locations in New York where you can browse their expansive collection of backsplash tiles in person.
5 Trends in Kitchen Backsplash Tile Designs
If you want a backsplash that doubles as a work of art, it helps to know what’s trending. Here are 5 of the most popular backsplash tile ideas right now:
Moroccan Fish Scale Tile
Intricate Moroccan fish scale tiles in iridescent hues add instant glamour and visual impact. They work in modern or boho kitchens.
Bold Geometric Patterns
From zigzags to triangular mosaics, geometric patterns lend eye-catching flair. Pair with modern cabinetry and sleek counters.
Textured 3D Tiles
Dimension is big in backsplash design. Opt for hand-molded 3D tiles or layered tile stacks for depth and shadow lines.
Hexagon Shapes
The hexagon shape continues to trend for walls and backsplashes. Mix varying sized hexagons for organic honeycomb effect.
Vintage Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles offer timeless appeal, or go vintage with handmade artisan subway tiles in an array of hues.
5 of the Most Popular Backsplash Materials
Consider these commonly used backsplash materials for your kitchen:
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles like terracotta, subway, and mosaic tiles are affordable, come in endless colors/finishes and are easy to clean.
Porcelain Tile
Dense porcelain tiles withstand moisture and resist staining. Their polished sheen mimics natural stone at a lesser price point.
Glass Tile
Gleaming glass backsplash tiles refract light beautifully. Consider iridescent glass tiles or recycled options.
Metal Tile
Stainless steel, copper, and tin backsplashes offer industrial appeal. Some metals patina or rust over time.
Stone Tile
Granite, marble, and travertine backsplash tiles make a sophisticated, upscale statement. Each stone has unique veining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about purchasing backsplash tiles:
How much does a backsplash tile installation cost?
On average, expect to pay $40 to $70 per square foot installed. Complex patterns, tile material, and labor can all impact overall cost.
What tools do I need to install backsplash tile?
You’ll need basic tiling tools like a tile cutter, trowel, tile spacers, and grout float. For intricate cuts, a wet saw is recommended.
How do I cut backsplash tiles?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles can be cut using a manual tile cutter. For detailed cuts, use a wet saw with a tile blade. Glass requires a glass cutter.
What type of tile is best for kitchen backsplashes?
Ceramic, porcelain, or glass tile hold up best behind ranges and sinks. Natural stone can stain or deteriorate from moisture over time.
How do I clean and maintain backsplash tiles?
Ceramic and glass tiles can be cleaned using a handheld grout brush and mild household cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleansers.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Perfect Backsplash Tiles
The ideal kitchen backsplash not only protects your walls in a high-use area but also enhances your kitchen’s style. With an endless array of colors, patterns, textures, and materials to choose from, take your time browsing local showrooms and tile shops to find the perfect backsplash to suit your space.
Consider pairing materials like glossy ceramic, travertine stone, or stainless steel tile with your existing cabinetry and countertops. And don’t be afraid to use bold colors or adventurous patterns to really make your backsplash the focal point of your kitchen.
Installing a kitchen backsplash is a relatively easy DIY project that makes a big impact. Arm yourself with the right tiling tools, select quality tiles that fit your budget, and take all necessary measurements beforehand.
With proper preparation and some patience, you can achieve a stunning, professional-looking backsplash to enjoy for many years. So start shopping for your dream backsplash tiles and breathe new life into your kitchen!