A kitchen backsplash may not take up the same space as your fresh countertops or newly finished cabinets, but don’t underestimate the impact of choosing the right tile. The right backsplash can tie together your countertops and cabinetry, infuse some personality into the room, and (perhaps most importantly) make everyday splashes and spills much easier to clean.
If a new backsplash is on your kitchen remodeling wish list, our home experts at Southwestern Remodeling, a trusted provider of kitchen remodels in Wichita, Kansas, are breaking down the most popular backsplash options. Here’s what to consider before making your choice!
Before falling in love with a tile, take a look at your kitchen as a whole. Your cabinetry, countertops, flooring, appliances, and even the amount of natural light in the room can all influence how a backsplash looks once installed. For a cohesive design, consider pulling one or two colors already present in the room into your backsplash. Or, if the rest of your kitchen is relatively neutral, use your backsplash as an opportunity to introduce a vibrant color, interesting texture, or eye-catching pattern.
Your budget matters, too. Classic options like white ceramic tile can create a timeless look without taking up a large portion of your remodeling budget. Just remember that the tile itself is only part of the equation. Quality grout and proper installation can make all the difference in how your finished backsplash looks, and how well it holds up over time.
There’s a reason ceramic tile remains one of the most popular backsplash choices. Available in seemingly endless combinations of colors, shapes, sizes, patterns, and price points, ceramic tile can complement just about any kitchen style. Keep things classic with glossy subway tile, add texture with a matte glaze, or bring some personality into the room with mosaic or hand-painted designs.
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If durability is near the top of your priority list, porcelain deserves a look. Denser than ceramic, porcelain is highly resistant to moisture and everyday wear, making it a practical choice for one of the hardest-working rooms in your home. While it typically comes with a higher upfront cost, our home experts love porcelain tile in a kitchen remodel because its durability and relatively low maintenance make it a worthwhile long-term investment.
For homeowners drawn to natural materials, stone tile brings beautiful texture and character into the kitchen. Granite, slate, travertine, and other natural stones feature variations in color and pattern, meaning no two backsplashes look exactly alike. Stone can also add a timeless, high-end quality that works especially well in kitchens designed around warm, organic finishes.
Few materials say “luxury kitchen” quite like marble. Its distinctive veining and classic appearance can instantly elevate a backsplash, whether you use it throughout the kitchen or reserve it for a statement area behind the range. Today’s finishes and sealants have made marble easier to care for, but homeowners should still be prepared to give this beautiful material a little extra attention.
At the end of the day, there’s no universal “best” backsplash material. The right choice is the one that complements your kitchen, suits your lifestyle, and fits comfortably within your remodeling budget. And, you don’t have to make that choice alone! From cabinetry and countertops to flooring, backsplashes, and those all-important finishing touches, our team at Southwestern Remodeling has completed thousands of kitchen remodels in Wichita and can help you create a kitchen that feels cohesive, functional, and uniquely yours.
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