A kitchen backsplash protects the wall from food splatters, but it can also be a beautiful decorative element in your kitchen.
Don't just assume that you will have a basic standard tile backsplash since there are so many other options.
Here is a list of some of the more popular backsplash options.
photo courtesy of thekitchendesigner flickr.com/photos/kitchendesigner/2482498113/Laminate
Laminate, commonly called by the brand name Formica, is a lesser expensive backsplash option.
It has been used for decades due to its low price point and cleanability.
There are many new colors, textures, and patterns of laminate - some attempt to look like paper, metal, or stone.
Many laminate countertops curve up at the back to also cover the backsplash, creating a seamless installation.
Porcelain or Ceramic Tile
Ceramic or porcelain tile is a popular backsplash since it is relatively inexpensive, can match floor tiles, and is somewhat easy to install.
Tile is easy to care for, however make sure to seal the grout to prevent the grout from staining.
Natural Stone
A natural stone tile backsplash is a traditional option that can be a little more pricey but will not become dated as quickly as some of the other backsplash options.
Some popular natural stones being used in backsplashes today are slate, travertine, onyx, granite, limestone, and marble.
You can use a seamless slab of natural stone or smaller stone tiles that can be laid in an intricate pattern.
Glass Tile
Glass tile has become very popular over the last few years.
Glass tiles are usually 1" x 1" and sold attached to a mesh sheet that is 12" x 12" for ease of installation.
Some glass tiles are sold in one color while others are sold with a mixture of colors on one sheet.
1" x 1" multicolored glass tile is rather trendy, so it may become dated quickly.
For a more classic timeless glass tile backsplash, select a neutral colored 3" x 6" tile layed in a subway pattern.
Sheet Glass
Sheet glass backsplashes are becoming very popular due to their ease of cleanup and clean modern aesthetic.
Glass comes in many colors, textures, and patterns.
Consider using plain clear glass but painting the wall behind your backsplash or the back side of the glass a bold accent color.
Mirror
Mirror backsplashes have been used for hundreds of years, especially in bar applications.
They can make a small kitchen look larger, however can expose the back of anything on your countertops (cords, crumbs, etc) and require constant cleaning since fingerprints and splatters are very obvious.
There are even mirrored tiles that look like mercury glass.
Metal
Metal backsplashes can be sheet metal or metal tiles.
Sheet metal that is brushed can be contemporary, however pressed tin can be more traditional, country, or victorian.
Metal tiles are a more contemporary style and can be quite costly.
Some of the metals used in backsplashes are stainless steel, copper, zinc, and tin.
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For more backsplash ideas, see the video below:
