Backsplashes serve both decorative and functional purposes in kitchens and bathrooms. They protect the walls from water damage, spills and stains. When designing a backsplash, one of the decisions is determining where to end it. There are a few different options for ending a backsplash corner that provide aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
Factors to Consider For Backsplash Corner Termination
Several factors go into determining the best place to stop a backsplash in a corner. The main considerations include:
Aesthetics
The look and style of the backsplash and kitchen should guide design choices. Backsplash termination points impact visual flow and appeal. Ending at an interior corner or extending to an exterior corner creates different styles.
Functionality
Backsplashes aid in protecting walls and controlling messes. The termination point impacts how much wall area the backsplash shields. Extending it farther increases spill protection.
Cost
Material and installation costs vary. Ending farther out may require more tile and work. Budget can help dictate the scope of the project.
Maintenance
Ending farther from the corner may create more grout lines to seal and cracks to catch debris. The termination impacts ease of cleaning.
Existing Features
Built-ins, windows, outlets and other features may impact how far the backsplash can extend and feasible end points.
Interior Corner Termination
One popular option is ending the backsplash at an interior corner where two countertops meet. This creates a clean transition from the backsplash to the wall.
Pros
- Visually pleasing symmetrical look
- Matches with many kitchen layouts
- Less grout lines and corners to clean
- Budget-friendly option requiring less tile
Cons
- Less wall protection from spills and splashes
- May allow debris buildup in corner cracks
Tips
- Use caulk to seal interior corner edges for smoother cleaning
- Add an accent tile piece at the corner to dress it up
Ending at the interior corner keeps the backsplash tailored. It offers a balanced look that neatly frames the work area. This traditional terminating point remains a timeless and versatile choice.
Inside Edge Termination
Another ending choice is extending the backsplash to the inside edge of an exterior corner. This provides more wall coverage than the interior corner but less than finishing outside the corner.
Pros:
- Offers more spill and splash protection
- Visually expands the backsplash
- Creates a fluid transition from counters to wall
Cons:
- Requires more tile work and expense
- Exposes more grout lines to seal
Tips:
- Use caulk along the corner edge for easy cleaning
- Add accents like trim or decorative tiles along the edge
Extending the backsplash to the inside exterior corner edge enables it to guard more of the cooking zone. It offers a finished look that makes it appear the backsplash wraps around the corner.
Full Wrap Around Outside Corner
For maximum wall coverage, the backsplash can wrap fully around the exterior corner. This protects the most surface area from stains and debris.
Pros:
- Maximizes wall protection from spills and splashes
- Makes backsplash a standout feature
- Provides opportunity for decorative end cap tiles
- Gives finished custom look
Cons:
- Most expensive option due to added tile work
- Exposes the most grout lines for sealing and cleaning
- Tile corner caps may chip over time
Tips:
- Use caulking and trim for the outside corner edges
- Select durable accent tiles to finish the outside corners
Wrapping the backsplash completely around the outside corner creates a high-end built-in look. The additional cost and work to carry the backsplash to the corner can provide enhanced function and style.
Terminating at Existing Backsplash
If a backsplash already extends partway across a surface, the new portion can end at the edge of the existing section.
Pros:
- Creates a uniform appearance
- Less expensive than removing the entire existing backsplash
- Simpler installation terminating at existing edge
Cons:
- May not provide as much wall protection
- Existing backsplash limits how far new portion can extend
Tips:
- Use trim or caulk for a smooth transition between old and new sections
- Select a tile style that complements the existing backsplash
Ending the new backsplash portion where the old section stops can create a cohesive finished design. It also requires less time and money than replacing the entire backsplash.
Where Not to Stop Backsplash Corner
In addition to the suitable termination options, there are a few places to avoid ending a backsplash corner:
- Avoid stopping at an uneven spot or random location. This can break up the visual flow.
- Don’t end by sinks or appliances. Backsplashes help protect these high use areas.
- Don’t stop partway across a focal wall. Covering the whole surface looks more complete.
- Avoid ending at cabinets or windows. Go beyond these features for a seamless look.
Careful planning ensures the backsplash meets functional needs and provides an appealing finished appearance.
Design Considerations For Backsplash Corner Termination
Several design factors come into play when determining the optimal backsplash corner termination point:
Kitchen Layout
The shape and dimensions of the kitchen impact backsplash span possibilities. Size, traffic zones and built-ins help dictate feasible end points.
Tile Material
Chosen tile types impact trim options. Matching corner trim tiles in stone may be harder to source than for ceramic. Material also impacts durability.
Tile Pattern
Layout patterns may need to wrap or terminate at certain points. Alternating tiles can end on a full or partial piece. Patterns impact corner design.
Backsplash Height
Standard height is 4 inches, but taller backsplashes are on trend. Height impacts the scale of the corner design and termination possibilities.
Countertop Style
Edge details where the backsplash ends must coordinate with counter materials and profiles. Some require more caulking or additional trim.
Wall Texture
Heavy wall textures can make finishing backsplash corners more complex. Smoother surfaces allow for simpler end cap materials.
How to Finish a Backsplash Corner
Proper finishing creates clean transitions and pretty corners. Here are tips for finishing backsplash corners:
Use Trim
Metal, tile, or stone trim affixes over the edge for a polished look. Match or complement backsplash colors.
Apply Caulk
Waterproof silicone caulk seals corners neatly. Smooth with a wet finger for an invisible finish.
Install Edge Tiles
Decorative tiles make beautiful end caps. They conceal cuts and give an upscale look.
Make Precise Cuts
For interior corners, precisely measure and cut partial edge tiles for a perfect fit.
Choose Durable Materials
Select resilient backsplash materials to prevent chips and cracks at outside corners.
With careful finishing, the backsplash corner termination blends beautifully with the overall kitchen aesthetic.
FAQs About Ending Backsplash Corners
Where is the most popular place to end a backsplash in a corner?
The most popular termination point is at the interior corner where two countertops meet. This provides a balanced look and minimal grout lines while still protecting a portion of the wall.
Does my backsplash have to end exactly at the corner?
No, you have options. The backsplash can end shy of the corner, precisely at the corner, wrap partially around, or extend fully around the exterior corner. Choose what suits your design needs.
How do I get a smooth seam where the backsplash meets the wall?
Use caulk or trim pieces to get a flush transition between the backsplash tile and the wall. These materials conceal any uneven edges for a streamlined look.
What special considerations are there for an L-shaped kitchen backsplash?
With an L-shaped kitchen, you can end both sections at the interior corner or carry the longer portion around the corner while ending the shorter portion inside. Coordinate the look.
Should my new backsplash end at the edge of the existing backsplash?
It is fine visually and functionally for a new portion to terminate where the old backsplash ends. Use trim for a smooth transition between the sections.
Conclusion
The optimal corner termination point for a backsplash comes down to aesthetic preference, functional needs and budget. Interior corners offer a balanced look. Extending to inside or outside corners provides greater protection. Finishing options like trim and caulk provide polished transitions. With some planning and tile work, you can create a backsplash corner design that perfectly suits your kitchen style.
where-to-end-backsplash-corner
Backsplashes are an integral part of kitchen and bathroom design. Not only are they decorative, but they serve the important purpose of protecting walls from moisture, splatters, and stains. When designing a backsplash, one decision to make is determining where to end it. There are several suitable options for terminating backsplash corners.
Terminating at Interior Corners
One popular placement is to end the backsplash at an interior corner where two countertops meet. This creates a clean, symmetrical look. It is a fairly economical option since less tile is required compared to extending farther. Ending at interior corners also limits the number of grout lines that need cleaning. On the downside, an interior corner termination provides less protection on the wall areas. The corner edges will also likely need caulking to prevent buildup of grime. Overall, ending at interior corners gives a balanced, tailored look and is a timeless choice.
Extending to Inside Corner Edges
For a little more wall coverage, the backsplash can extend to the inside edge of an exterior corner. This covers more area beyond just the workstation zone. It finishes the transition from the counter surface to the wall nicely. Using trim or accent tiles along the edge can dress up this termination point. The drawbacks are the need for additional tile material and work. There will also be more grout lines to seal. Going to the inside edge strikes a nice balance between form and function.
Wrapping Fully Around Outside Corners
For a truly built-in look, take the backsplash completely around the exterior corner. This fully integrates the backsplash as part of the whole kitchen aesthetic. It offers maximum splash protection since it covers the most surface area. The challenge is properly creating the rounded corner. Durable trim options include metal, stone, or carefully selected ceramic tile. Caulk helps seal the edges. The cost is higher due to extra materials, customized pieces, and additional labor. For a high-end kitchen, the expense may be justified by the added functionality and appeal.
Terminating at Existing Backsplashes
When adding onto an existing backsplash, the new section can end at the edge of the old portion. This avoids the cost and work of removing the entire backsplash. It can create a uniform and updated look. Transition trim helps blend the two parts together. Just be aware that the existing backsplash may limit how far the new section can extend. Make sure it provides adequate wall protection. An uneven edge on the old portion can also make achieving a smooth seam more difficult.
Design Factors for Corners
Several elements factor into backsplash corner design. The kitchen layout impacts feasible spans. Backsplash height affects the scale. Tile patterns may need to wrap or end in certain spots. Countertop edges dictate how much of a lip may need covering. The tile itself impacts durability and corner trim options. Some materials are trickier to work around outside corners than others. Careful planning leads to a cohesive backsplash design with seamless corner termination.
In summary, popular backsplash corner termination points include interior corners, inside exterior corners, or wrapping fully around outside corners. Built-ins, existing features, and tile attributes impact options. With smart planning, you can end your backsplash corner in a spot that blends practical function with beautiful form.
FAQs
Where is the most common place to end a backsplash in a corner?
The most popular spot to end a backsplash corner is at the interior corner where two countertops meet. This creates a clean symmetrical look. It offers some wall protection while limiting the amount of tile needed.
Do I have to end my backsplash exactly at the corner?
No, the backsplash does not have to terminate precisely at the corner. It can end slightly before the corner, directly at the corner, wrap around partway, or extend fully past the exterior corner. Choose what achieves the look you want.
What is the best way to create a smooth transition between the backsplash and wall?
Using caulk, trim pieces, or carefully selected edge tiles will help create a flush, streamlined transition from the backsplash tile to the wall. These materials prevent uneven edges and conceal cuts.
How should I handle the backsplash corners in an L-shaped kitchen?
In an L-shaped kitchen, you could end both backsplash sections at the interior corner or extend the longer run around the corner while ending the shorter section inside. Coordinate the look appropriately.
Can my new backsplash just end at the existing backsplash edge?
Yes, it is fine functionally and visually for a new backsplash area to terminate where the old section ends. Use trim for a smooth transition between them.
Conclusion
The ideal backsplash corner termination point depends on the kitchen layout, design style, tile choices, and budget. Interior corners offer a tidy finish while exterior corners provide more splash protection. Edge tiles, caulk, and trim enable attractive, seamless transitions. With some planning, you can choose a backsplash corner ending spot that perfectly suits your space. The termination area impacts aesthetics, functionality and maintenance. Determine the right balance for your needs.