Choosing the Perfect Backsplash Material for Your Kitchen
A backsplash does double duty in a kitchen, protecting walls from splatters and adding a design pop, too. Most backsplash materials are durable and easy to maintain, so the final choice often comes down to look and feel.
Popular and Affordable: Ceramic
It's hard to go wrong with the mainstay of kitchen backsplashes: ceramic tiles. Ceramic meets most of the requirements for style and function — it's durable, affordable, and easy to clean. Ceramic is also available in an array of colors and shapes to suit most design themes. Choose a plain, white tile that blends quietly into the background, or mix and match styles to create eye-catching patterns.
Light and Bright: Glass
A glass backsplash makes a kitchen sparkle, reflecting light and creating a feeling of spaciousness. Pale blue or green glass creates a fresh and airy feel, and upbeat colors such as red or orange add a splash of playfulness. For a statement look, use a sheet of glass instead of individual tiles to create a smooth, uninterrupted surface. Kitchens that already get a lot of light can employ matte glass to reduce glare.
Timeless Beauty: Natural Stone
Bring a touch of nature into your kitchen with a backsplash made of granite, slate, soapstone, or travertine. Stone is versatile and adapts well to different design themes — try light colors for rustic warmth, dark hues for a modern industrial vibe, and smooth marble for ultimate luxury. While stone backsplashes are durable, they're more porous than glass or ceramic, so regular resealing is needed to prevent moisture and oils from seeping through.
Sleek and Modern: Stainless Steel
Stainless steel delivers a modern, industrial look. Opt for sheets of plain, brushed metal for a simple, clean appearance, or choose textured or embossed finishes for visual interest. Stainless steel backsplashes are also available in tiles for those who prefer traditional patterns such as squares, rectangles, and hexagons. Keep the backsplash looking fresh and new by cleaning it with warm, soapy water and a stainless steel cleaner.
The Look of Luxury: Porcelain
Made from clay, porcelain is similar to ceramic tile and is sold in various shapes and colors. Some styles resemble expensive natural stone and are available in large slabs, allowing homeowners to create the look of a solid marble backsplash at an affordable price. Fired at a high temperature, porcelain is more durable and long-lasting than ceramic. It's also less porous than stone, making it easy to clean and maintain.
