A white penny tile backsplash is a classic and timeless choice that can complement almost any kitchen decor. Penny tiles get their name from their round shape and size, which is similar to an old US penny. The small circular tiles create a visually striking mosaic-like pattern when arranged in a backsplash design. White penny tiles have maintained steady popularity over the years and work wonderfully as a clean, neutral backdrop in kitchens or bathrooms. In this article we will dive into the details of penny tile backsplash designs, materials, installation tips and ways to use them to enhance your space.
The Beauty of White Penny Tile Backsplashes
White penny tiles never seem to go out of style. The light color keeps kitchens looking bright and airy, while the small scale tiles create visual interest and texture. Here are some of the reasons penny tiles work so beautifully for kitchen backsplashes:
Classic Look
White penny round tile has a distinctly vintage feel, reminiscent of old-world kitchens and early 20th century motifs. Even as kitchen trends have come and gone, the classic penny tile has remained beloved. It’s almost neutral enough to work in any kitchen, but still makes a statement.
Timeless Appeal
Like white subway tiles, white penny tiles have an enduring, timeless quality. They are unlikely to feel dated or clash with evolving decor styles. The versatility and clean simplicity of white penny tiles contribute to their lasting appeal.
Texture & Shape
The small, circular shape of penny tiles adds delightful texture and visual depth to backsplashes. Light bounces off the grouted joints between tiles, creating a lively interplay of shadows. The mosaic-like arrangement has a certain whimsy and charm.
Brightness
White tiles reflect light well in kitchens. This helps maintain a feeling of openness and breathability. For small or dark kitchens, white penny tiles keep the space looking airy and light.
Pattern Variations
The repetitive circular pattern of penny tiles provides plenty of room for creativity. Tiles can be arranged in straight or zig-zagging lines, in basketweave or herringbone patterns, framed by trim tiles or edged with bullnose pieces. The options for patterns are nearly endless.
Affordability
Penny tiles tend to be very reasonably priced, especially when buying ceramic or porcelain tiles. High design impact can be achieved without a major splurge on tile materials.
White Penny Tile Materials
Authentic porcelain penny tile backsplash
White penny tiles come in a variety of materials, giving you options for different budgets and looks. Here are the most common types of tiles used:
Porcelain
Porcelain penny tiles have low water absorption, making them very durable and stain resistant. They stand up beautifully to kitchen wear and tear. Porcelain tiles have a slightly luminescent quality that adds depth.
Ceramic
Basic ceramic penny tiles are probably the most affordable option, providing an authentic vintage look on a budget. Their downside is being prone to chipping and staining. Sealing tiles helps protect them.
Glass
Glass penny tiles have increased translucency and shine. Their reflective qualities help kitchens feel more open and airy. However, glass tiles may not stand up to heat as well.
Stone
Slate, marble or travertine penny tiles lend an elegantly rustic feel, but are less reflective than other materials. Sealing these tiles is important to prevent staining. Stone penny tiles tend to be the most expensive option.
Cement
Concrete or cement tiles recreate the crumbling, weathered appearance of authentic antique tiles. Modern versions offer the same look in a durable material.
Benefits of Penny Tile Backsplashes
There are good reasons penny tiles remain so popular for kitchen backsplashes. Here are some of the benefits they offer:
Durability
Thanks to their shape and thick grout joints, penny tiles are less prone to cracking and chipping than many larger tiles. The mosaic-like arrangement helps minimize the look of any damage over time. Their small scale also makes penny tiles relatively easy for DIY installation.
Texture
The rounded shape and grouted lines between each penny tile gives backsplashes wonderful visual depth and texture. This helps walls feel tactile and dynamic.
Pattern Options
The small circular tiles lend themselves to all sorts of creative layout patterns. Herringbone, basketweave, zigzag and more intricate designs can be achieved. Trim tiles help further customize arrangements.
Easy to Clean
The thick grout between penny tiles creates a seamless finish that’s easy to keep clean. Grout helps limit the spread of grime, oils or food. The smooth surface of tiles can be wiped clean efficiently.
Stylish Focal Point
Penny tile backsplashes immediately become a focal point of any kitchen by adding eye-catching texture and vibrancy. This allows the backsplash to be a stylistic anchor for the kitchen’s overall decor.
Vintage Appeal
From Victorian era charm to early 20th century ambiance, penny tiles evoke beloved design eras. For those loving a vintage or retro aesthetic, penny tiles help strike that stylish balance between old and new.
Budget-Friendly
Since penny tiles utilize small pieces of tile, less material is required overall. This makes penny tile backsplashes very budget-friendly to install. Simple ceramic or porcelain tiles cost little per square foot.
Popular Patterns & Layouts
One of the most appealing aspects of penny tile backsplashes is the potential for creative layouts. Here are some of the most popular arrangements:
Straight Set Pattern
The basic straight set pattern aligns horizontal rows of penny tiles in a grid. This clean, linear look maximizes the graphic impact and lets the circular tile shape stand out. Straight set penny tile patterns feel crisp and orderly.
Basketweave Pattern
Basketweave patterns use clever tile orientation to create the illusion of woven texture. Tiles are set perpendicular to each other in an over-under arrangement that feels dynamic without being busy. The basketweave look adds visual appeal while retaining the simplicity penny tiles are known for.
Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone penny tile designs alternate the tile direction in angled zigs and zags to mimic a herringbone cloth texture. The shifting orientation catches light beautifully. Herringbone patterns have great visual movement, leading the eye dynamically across the backsplash surface.
Hexagon Pattern
Interlocking rows of rounded penny tiles arranged closely together can create a cool hexagon pattern. Negative space is minimized for a honeycomb-like look. Hexagon penny tile layouts have an edgy, modern vibe.
Zigzag Pattern
Simple clean horizontal rows of penny tiles can be separated by zigzag lines for a lively retro feel. The zigzag stitching becomes a bold graphic element against the circular tiles. This pattern is playful but not overly busy.
Inlaid Designs
Some penny tile backsplashes use contrasting colors or metallic tiles inlaid sporadically to create a focal point. This jewelry-like cluster draws the eye. A minimal inlaid design prevents visual overwhelm.
Adding Eye-Catching Borders
Borders and trim tiles take penny tile backsplash designs to the next level. Contrasting borders help ground the central tile design while thickening visual impact. Here are some great options:
Bullnose Borders
Bullnose tiles have a rounded finished edge that creates a subtle framing effect around the main backsplash tile design. The rounded shape mirrors the penny tiles beautifully.
Mosaic Borders
Small mosaic tiles, or tesserae, add ornate old-world flair when bordering penny tile sections. The mosaic tiles create intricacy and detail against the penny tiles’ simplicity.
Subway Tile Borders
Slender rectangular subway tiles make another smart contrasting border for penny tile backsplashes. Subway tiles offer a crisp linear edge. Their elongated shape contrasts the penny tiles’ circles.
Wood Trim Borders
Wood trim cut into shapes like half-rounds or starbursts adds natural warmth and dimension when applied around penny tile backsplashes. This built-in frame anchors the tiles elegantly.
Metal Trim Borders
Metal bar or tile trims offer shiny definition around penny tile installations. Thin metal trim follows the contours neatly while separating the backsplash from surrounding walls and cabinets.
Ideal Penny Tile Placement
Where penny tile backsplashes are situated in a kitchen makes a difference both aesthetically and functionally:
Backsplash Behind Stove
The wall space directly behind the stove tends to get the steamiest, so heat-resistant porcelain or glass penny tiles are ideal here. The lively pattern helps disguise grease splatter that can accumulate behind ranges.
Full Wraparound Backsplash
Installing penny tiles in a full backsplash that wraps around to side walls and windows creates a 360 degree focal point. This application allows the maximum enjoyment of the tile design.
Backsplash Behind Sink
The area behind a kitchen sink also sees lots of splashing, moisture and grime. Durable glass or porcelain penny tiles hold up better than more porous materials like stone or cement.
Partial Backsplash Accent
Penny tiles can be used selectively in a small backsplash above a stove or sink. Keeping the installation to a portion of the wall makes the impact more of an accent.
Bathroom Backsplashes
In bathrooms, penny tiles bring color, texture and charm to the utilitarian wall area behind vanities, mirrors or tub surrounds. Their versatility allows coordinating with any existing bath tiles.
Fireplace Surrounds
The organic texture and visual warmth of penny tiles can lend rustic ambiance to a fireplace surround. Their heat resistance suits this high temperature area.
Installation Tips for Penny Tile Backsplashes
Installing penny tile backsplashes takes precision, but creates a stunning result. Here are some handy tips for tackling a DIY installation or prepping for contractors:
Carefully Prepare Wall Surface
Take time fully clean, lightly sand, prime and seal the installation wall area first. This creates the ideal smooth, consistent surface needed for a seamless finish.
Use Appropriate Backerboard
Cement, fiber cement or fiberglass backerboard provides an ideal base for strongly adhering tile. Be sure to screw boards securely to wall studs.
Pick Premium Adhesive
Quality adhesive is critical – don’t skimp here! Use polymer fortified thinset mortar which sticks strongest to wall surfaces and resists moisture.
Plot Your Layout
Map out the tile layout ahead of time on the wall with a chalk line to follow your pattern. Allow for uniform grout joint sizes in the layout.
Use Grout Spacers
Small plastic tile spacers between each penny tile ensure straight joints and even spacing as you stick tiles row by row. Remove spacers carefully once tiles adhere.
Mix Grout Thoroughly
Sanded grout is best for penny tile joints. When mixing powdered grout, blend with water thoroughly to a smooth, lump-free consistency per package directions.
Clean As You Go
Wipe any grout or thinset from tile faces with a damp sponge immediately to prevent drying and hazing on the tile surfaces.
Seal Grout and Tile
Once grout cures fully, seal it and apply a protective sealer to the tiles themselves to prevent stains and increase water resistance.
Stylish Design Combinations with White Penny Tiles
One benefit of the versatility of white penny tile backsplashes is how well they coordinate with all different color schemes and materials. Here are some chic combinations:
Black and White Kitchens
Nothing is more classic than clean black and white. Glossy black granite countertops or cabinetry pop boldly against white penny tiles. Add metal accents for sheen.
Warm Wood Kitchens
The organic texture of natural wood cabinetry and butcher block countertops feels satisfyingly harmonious with white penny tile backsplashes and their circular shape.
Vintage Kitchens
For ultra-retro appeal, pair white penny tiles with vintage elements like farmhouse sinks, antique cabinet hardware, and distressed wood accents. Keep walls cheery!
Cottage Kitchens
Whitewashed wood plank walls and open shelving breathe an airy cottage vibe into kitchens. Natural woven textures and white penny tiles feel breezily charming.
Contemporary Kitchens
Glossy white or black penny tiles suit sleek, modern spaces beautifully. Their reflective quality interacts with abundant natural light. Keep countertops and cabinets streamlined.
Eclectic Kitchens
In funky, colorful kitchens, white penny tiles tone down countertops in bold hues like azure or chartreuse. Add whimsy with an unexpected backsplash pattern or inlaid designs.
Maintaining White Penny Tile Backsplashes
Follow these maintenance tips to keep penny tile backsplashes looking like new for years to come:
- Use a gentle cleaner and soft sponge for regular wiping of surface grime. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Re-seal grout annually. Check for any cracked or missing grout and repair.
- Don’t let stains set – wipe up food, oils or liquids right away before they seep into grout.
- Occasionally re-seal the surface of tiles with a penetrating sealer to resist stain absorption.
- Limit direct heat exposure like pans or kettles which could crack/burn tiles over time.
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads or cleansers which could dull, etch or scratch tiles.
- Inspect loose tiles or damage promptly and re-adhere or replace individual tiles as needed.
- Clean using a soft, damp microfiber cloth and mild, pH-neutral cleanser.
With just simple regular care, beautiful penny tile backsplashes can stay looking pristine for many years of daily wear.
FAQ About White Penny Tile Backsplashes
What’s the best grout color for white penny tiles?
White or very light grey grout complements white penny tiles best. Dark grout would overwhelm the white tile shapes. Beige or cream grout also maintains the vintage vibe.
How durable are real penny tiles?
It depends on the material – porcelain penny tiles are very durable thanks to low porosity. Ceramic would be the least durable option while stone and glass fall somewhere in between.
Should I seal penny tile backsplashes?
Yes, sealing is highly recommended for any natural stone tiles, and even cement or ceramic to prevent staining. The sealer fills pores and creates a protective barrier. Re-seal annually.
What tile spacers work best?
Small, thin plastic tile spacers keep consistent grout joint sizes around 1/8 inch as you set penny tiles. These remove cleanly after setting tiles when the adhesive has cured.
Is it cheaper to do penny tile backsplash yourself?
If you’re comfortable with DIY tiling, buying tiles and materials yourself and installing can potentially save on labor costs rather than hiring out. But experience is a plus.
Should I start penny tiles in center or corner?
It’s generally recommended to start a penny tile backsplash layout centered above the backsplash area. This helps ensure you don’t end up with uneven tile cuts on the outer edges.
How do I clean penny tile backsplash?
Use a mild, pH neutral cleanser and soft microfiber cloth or sponge to regularly wipe down penny tile backsplash surfaces. Take care not to use anything too abrasive or harsh that could etch or dull tiles.
Can you put penny tiles on ceiling?
This is not recommended – virtually all tile manufacturers specify wall use only. The weight and adhesive issues make ceiling installation tricky. There are ceiling-specific medallion tiles for a similar look.
Do penny tile sheets make installation easier?
Yes, penny tile sheets with tiles already adhered to a mesh backing can reduce installation time since tiles don’t have to be set individually. This also helps minimize grout line thickness.
Should I put trim around penny tile backsplash?
Trim is optional, but can add nice delineation and visual polish. Bullnose, metal or tile trim creates a decorator detail. Up to 6 inch wood trim can be used if secured properly to studs.
Conclusion
With their enduringly classic, timeless appeal, white penny tile backsplashes are one of the most popular and stylish options for kitchens today. Their versatile shape effortlessly suits a variety of spaces from sleek modern to homey vintage. Penny tiles not only provide visual texture but have a uniquely fun, whimsical allure. Thanks to the myriad creative layout patterns possible, penny tiles can be customized to suit personal style. With just simple maintenance, penny tile backsplashes easily retain their luminous good looks for years of daily use. For anyone seeking a backsplash design that’s a timeless classic, white penny tiles are a top choice that won’t disappoint. With a crisp, clean palette and lively geometry, they beautifully anchor the style of a kitchen.
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