Backsplashes are an essential element in many kitchen remodeling and design projects. Choosing the right backsplash and finding a reliable retailer to purchase it from can make all the difference in creating your dream kitchen. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding and buying a backsplash for your home improvement project.
What is a Backsplash?
A backsplash is a protective surface that is installed on the wall behind a countertop, stove, or sink. Backsplashes are typically made of tile, metal, glass, or stone. The primary purpose of a backsplash is to protect the walls from water damage, stains, and splatters while also serving as an accent décor piece to enhance the look and style of the kitchen.
Backsplashes come in a wide range of colors, textures, materials, sizes, and patterns. This allows homeowners to get creative and choose a backsplash that aligns with their personal taste and the overall kitchen design. The area a backsplash covers can also vary, some extend all the way to the upper cabinets while others only span a portion of the wall behind the counters and appliances.
Benefits of Installing a Backsplash
There are several important benefits that come with installing a backsplash in your kitchen:
- Protection – Backsplashes provide an extra barrier between your walls and water. This prevents moisture damage, mold growth, and general wear and tear.
- Cleanliness – Backsplashes are much easier to clean than drywall. They prevent stains from oil splatters, juices, grease, and other cooking mess.
- Accent Piece – Backsplashes serve as beautiful focal points in kitchens. They can complement your cabinetry, counters, floors, and other décor.
- Increased Home Value – The addition of a backsplash can increase the value of your home when it comes time to sell. Backsplashes are expected in modern, updated kitchens.
Backsplash Materials and Options
Backsplashes come in a diverse array of materials, styles, colors, and designs. Consider the following popular backsplash options for your kitchen:
Tile Backsplashes
Tile is one of the most common backsplash materials due to its durability, ease of cleaning, and customizability. Ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tile are top choices. Glass tile and mosaic tile are also trendy options providing a shimmery, sleek look. The options for tile shapes, textures, colors, and patterns are endless.
Metal Backsplashes
Metal backsplashes like stainless steel, copper, and aluminum provide a sleek, contemporary look. Metals are easy to clean, naturally water-resistant, and heat-resistant. Perforated metal, tin backsplashes, and metal mosaic tiles are eye-catching metal backsplash options.
Glass Backsplashes
Glass backsplashes come in various styles including colored, frosted, etched, and tempered glass. Glass provides depth and brilliance to kitchens. Glass tile, large sheets of glass, metallic glass, and recycled glass backsplashes are popular.
Stone Backsplashes
Granite, marble, travertine, limestone, and slate backsplash options give an upscale, timeless look. The natural veining and texture of stone is ideal for making a backsplash a true work of art. Stone backsplashes require sealing to prevent staining.
Custom Backsplash Murals
For a truly one-of-a-kind backsplash, custom mural backsplashes are possible. Photos and designs can be printed directly onto backsplash tile or glass. Some companies even do 3D sculpted murals and mosaics.
Where to Shop for Backsplashes
When searching for “who sells backsplash near me”, there are plenty of options both online and in-store. Compare retailers, brands, styles, and prices. Look for sales, coupons, or promos to save on an expensive backsplash.
Home Improvement Stores
Large home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s have huge backsplash departments. Shop various tile, glass, metal, and stone backsplashes all in one place. Home improvement stores often offer installation services.
Tile Showrooms
Specialty tile showrooms have a massive collection of unique, high-end tiles for backsplashes. Custom mosaic patterns, colorful handmade tiles, and large format tiles can be found. Expert staff can guide you through the design process.
Kitchen & Bath Design Stores
Stores specializing in kitchen and bathroom design services and products typically carry a wide backsplash selection. Make appointments to view installations and work with designers to get product samples.
Online Retailers
Websites like Wayfair, Overstock, Amazon, and Build.com sell every type of imaginable backsplash. Order samples at affordable prices. Read customer reviews. Opt for convenient online ordering and shipping.
Direct from Manufacturers
Order directly from backsplash manufacturers to cut out the middleman costs. Custom size any material. Direct purchasing also allows access to exclusive products.
Salvaged Material Retailers
For a unique, eco-friendly backsplash, use salvaged and recycled materials. Materials like old barn wood, recycled glass bottles, antique bricks, or tin roofing can be repurposed into rustic backsplash designs.
How to Choose the Best Backsplash
With so many backsplash products available, choosing the right one for your kitchen requires some consideration. Follow these tips for selecting the perfect backsplash:
- Measure the space – Get accurate linear footage measurements before shopping so you buy enough material. Don’t forget to account for pattern repeats and tricky angles.
- Complement other finishes – Pick a backsplash color, material, and style that pairs well with your cabinets, countertops, floors, and decor.
- Consider ease of cleaning – Some backsplash materials like polished stone are prone to etching or staining. Opt for durable, easy-to-clean finishes.
- Examine textures/patterns – Add visual interest by mixing up the textures and patterns in your backsplash. Contrast matte and glossy tiles.
- Assess durability – Go for scratch, chip, stain, and water-resistant materials if opting for a backsplash behind a cooktop or sink. Avoid porous materials that require sealing.
- Account for humidity – Materials like natural stone, metals, and some tiles absorb moisture which can cause discoloration or damage over time.
- Get design inspiration – Look at backsplash photo galleries online or in design magazines. Visit showrooms to view materials you’re considering in person.
Hiring a Pro vs. DIY Installation
Installing a backsplash in your kitchen is a big project that requires tiling knowledge and skills to get perfectly right. Consider if you want to take on the installation yourself or hire a backsplash installation professional.
Professional Backsplash Installation
Hiring a professional tiling contractor to install your backsplash has some advantages:
- It saves you time and labor
- Ensures a quality, long-lasting installation
- No need to buy tools or supplies yourself
- Experts can properly cut, grout, seal, and finish the job
- Professionals have expertise to handle tricky layouts
- You avoid making expensive mistakes
Be sure to get multiple quotes and verify licenses, insurance, and reviews before hiring a pro.
DIY Backsplash Installation
Installing a backsplash yourself is a great way to save money and learn a new skill. Here’s what is required if going the DIY route:
- Watch online tutorial videos to learn proper techniques
- Use a tile saw or wet saw to precisely cut tile
- Invest in tiling tools like grout floats, spacers, buckets, and a mixing paddle
- Take time to properly prepare the surface and lay out the tile
- Very carefully mix, apply, and clean the grout
- Expect the project to be messy, take longer, and not have perfect results
- Be prepared to redo sections if you make errors
Weigh the pros and cons of DIY vs professional installation for your specific backsplash project.
How Much Does a Backsplash Cost?
The cost of a backsplash depends on several factors:
- Type of material – Tile ranges $5-$50 per sq. ft. Stone is $40-$100 per sq. ft. Glass costs $20-$80 per sq. ft.
- Specialty options like listello accents, mosaics, or decorative trim and edges increase costs
- Amount of backsplash area needing to be covered
- Whether you do DIY or hire a professional installer
- Your location – Labor rates vary
Generally, expect to spend an average of $600 – $1200 for an installed backsplash covering 20-30 sq. ft. High-end materials can multiply costs. Get itemized estimates from retailers to budget accurately.
Backsplash Maintenance Tips
To keep your backsplash looking like new for years to come, follow these maintenance best practices:
- Seal any natural stone materials annually
- Clean backsplashes regularly using manufacturers recommended cleaners
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads or powders that can scratch surfaces
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove residue
- Re-caulk where backsplashes meet countertops or other surfaces periodically
- Protect against moisture damage by quickly wiping up spills and splatters
- Consider protective finishes like lacquer for extra shine and stain resistance
- Monitor grout lines for cracking and re-grout as needed
- Never use bleach products on backsplash grout or tiles
Proper care will help extend the lifespan of your backsplash and keep it looking fabulous.
FAQs About Purchasing a Backsplash
Who sells backsplash near me?
Big box home improvement stores, tile showrooms, kitchen and bath designers, online retailers, and direct backsplash manufacturers all sell a wide variety of backsplash products locally and ship to homes.
What is the most popular backsplash?
Subway tile and ceramic tile are the most commonly used backsplash materials. White subway tiles with dark grout provides a classic, timeless look.
How much does it cost to install a backsplash?
Installing a backsplash professionally costs an average of $40-$50 per sq. ft. depending on your location and the complexity of the design. DIY installation can reduce costs but takes more time and labor.
Should I hire a contractor to install my backsplash?
A contractor ensures a quality installation and saves you the hassle. But if you’re up for a DIY challenge, have the right tools, and watch tutorial videos, you may be able to self-install and save on labor fees.
What backsplash goes with white cabinets?
White cabinets pair beautifully with any light or bright-colored backsplash like white subway tile, a stone or glass mosaic, stainless steel, or painted tiles. Darker cabinetry opens up more backsplash options.
How long does a backsplash installation take?
An experienced contractor can install a 20-30 sq. ft. backsplash in 8-10 hours over 1-2 days. DIY installation takes longer – up to 2-3 days for beginners. Proper prep and tile cutting take up most install time.
Get the Perfect Backsplash for Your Kitchen
Choosing and expertly installing a backsplash truly elevates a kitchen’s design aesthetic while also protecting the walls. Carefully measure your space, evaluate the many materials and styles available, and determine whether to DIY or hire a pro. Be creative and have fun designing your ideal backsplash! This guide covers everything you need to know to successfully tackle a backsplash project and answer the question “who sells backsplash near me?”. With proper planning, preparation, and execution, your new backsplash will serve as a stunning focal point you’ll appreciate for years to come.