A modern kitchen backsplash is an integral part of any up-to-date kitchen design. However, it is also frequently ignored with people paying more attention to kitchen countertops, storage and appliances.
While this is perfectly alright, it is important to remember that the kitchen backsplash deserves your attention and consideration too.
After all, it does keep your kitchen walls from getting dirty and stained. It also adds an aesthetic backdrop and a visual element to your kitchen.
If you’re looking to install a kitchen backsplash, but don’t know how to choose one that complements your cooking space, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on find out.
1. Consider Your Kitchen’s Dimensions
How to install kitchen backsplash, you ask? The first step is to know about how much space you have to work with. You’ll also need to know the height of the backsplash you need.
Usually, kitchen backsplashes are 4” high. However, every kitchen design is different, which is why some find this to be too low for their needs. Installing it can be pointless as the walls can be left exposed and subjected to damage. For this reason, many homeowners raise the height of their backsplash all the way up to the cabinets.
Depending on your kitchen’s design, you may also be able to get a full-height backsplash (going up to the ceiling). This helps in making the space look and feel more seamless. If this interests you, consult with your backsplash installer about the backsplash ideas most suitable for your kitchen.
The size of your kitchen matters too. The bigger your kitchen is, the more wall there is to cover. Subsequently, you’ll need more materials as well.
Most of the time, the spaces above your oven range and the sink need the most coverage, offering immense scope for you to play around with the design. You may want to get a more detailed tile for these spaces and pick neutral ones for areas that aren’t that noticeable.
2. Explore Your Options
Take the time to go through multiple kitchen backsplashes ideas to know and weigh your options. After all, once you’ve installed a kitchen backsplash, you’re going to live with it for a long time.
A good way to make the right choice is by taping samples of backsplashes to your kitchen walls and observing them for a few days. How do they look at different times of the day? Does the lighting have any effect on the colors? Do they go well with your kitchen cabinetry and light fixtures?
All in all, choose a backsplash that’s a treat for your eyes because you won’t be able to replace it for a long time to come.
3. Do Factor-in Your Countertops
Of course, your backsplash needs to coordinate extremely well with your kitchen countertops too. In fact, it’s eventually going to look like an extension of your countertops since both these elements will be placed right next to each other.
Your modern kitchen backsplash and countertops will unify in the middle, and should work in harmony. You don’t want to bring down the overall look of your kitchen by using colors that clash.
With this in mind, you choose a backsplash color that complements the countertop rather than contrast it. Focus on creating balance.
If your countertop color is vibrant, go for a backsplash in a muted shade. Got a granite countertop? Go for a simple kitchen backsplash. Have a beige or white countertop? Choose a lively backsplash in an accent color.
4. Think Practically
This is an important consideration when you want to install kitchen backsplash that actually serves your needs. Of course, everyone wants to have a stunning backsplash, but you also need to think about its practicality and functionality.
Think about the way you cook on a daily basis – what kind of meals do you commonly prepare? Does your cooking involve a lot of splashes, moisture, and mess? Do you use your stove frequently?
For example, if your daily cooking involves the use of a lot of grease, opt for a tall kitchen backsplash made from durable materials like stone, ceramic, or stainless steel. But, if your cooking style creates a lot of steam and moisture, you’ll be better off with a water-resistant material like glass. This option will also allow you to prevent problems associated with dampness.
5. Don’t Forget about a Suitable Grout
Generally speaking, the grout is a dense fluid that’s added in the space or joints between two tiles. It helps set the tiles firmly on the wall.
It isn’t uncommon for people to overlook the importance of a suitable grout for the kitchen backsplash. However, the grout’s quality plays a huge role in equipping the backsplash for protecting the walls behind it from spills and splashes.
If you want the grout to blend in with the backsplash, match it to the tile color. But if you want a bold look, add a contrasting grout color. You can also experiment with the grout joint size for a unique look. To get it right, discuss your kitchen backsplash ideas and preferences with your contractor before deciding on the grout.
6. Stick to Your Budget
It’s time to talk money.
So, how much does a kitchen backsplash cost? And what’s the cost to replace kitchen backsplash? The simple answer to these questions is: it depends.
If you’re looking to install a backsplash as part of your overall kitchen remodeling project, the costs will likely add up. So, choose carefully. Sticking to a budget shouldn’t be much of a problem since there’s a plethora of backsplash options available.
You could go for peel-and-stick backsplash designs for your walls if they’re adhesive-friendly. These are a pocket-friendly option and can be removed/replaced as and when desired. However, they do look contrived.
But if money isn’t an issue, go for the best. Don’t compromise quality against the cost to backsplash kitchen walls. Glass tiles, for instance, are luxe as well as scratch-proof, making them an elegant option that also protect your walls from moisture.
Get Inspiring Kitchen Backsplash Ideas and Installation at OMG Kitchen
A modern kitchen backsplash can play a defining role in adding uniqueness to you cooking area. Eccentric, refined, neutral, traditional, or contemporary – whichever style enthuses your imagination, make sure you choose a backsplash that livens up the space between your countertop and cabinets.
Of course, you’ll need to consider many kitchen backsplash ideas before zeroing in on one that’s in harmony with your kitchen’s design, colors, and theme. Don’t forget, your backsplash is going be an important focal point in your kitchen. Use this opportunity to be as creative as you can.
Whether you’re looking for a marble backsplash or a simple fix for your chipped tile, we’re here to help. Schedule a complimentary consultation with our experts today by calling 948-540-8859. You can also contact OMG Kitchen online to learn more about installing a tile backsplash in South Orange County.