Can you use matte tile for kitchen backsplash?

Author: Prof. Jamaal Haley  |  Last update: Thursday, June 30, 2022

Matte tiles aren't often used for kitchen backsplashes but they look amazing and are worth trying. Matte black tiles in some geo shape will be nice for a masculine or just moody kitchen, matte white tiles will add texture to any kitchen and will look more interesting than usual white tiles.

Is matte or glossy tile better for backsplash?

Erika explains, “A glossy subway tile can look brighter and more polished, often lending to a more formal look. It also hides water spots and fingerprints better than its less shiny counterpart. While a matte finish can convey a softer, more casual look.

Are matte tiles good for kitchen?

While matt tiles may lack the bright and shiny appeal, they have a better traction than gloss. For high traffic spaces that are in frequent contact with water, humidity and steam, matt tiles offer a more 'non slip' reputation. Spaces such as hallways, kitchens and bathrooms will all benefit from matt tiles.

Is matte backsplash hard to clean?

Matte finish tiles do not require frequent cleaning, but when you do need to clean them up, it can be a little more time-consuming than the glossy finish tiles. Though matt finish tiles show up far fewer dirty marks, they are more difficult to clean than glossy tiles.

What kind of tile is best for backsplash?

Ceramic tile is the most popular option for a kitchen backsplash. Ceramic tiles are incredibly versatile—they come in many shapes, sizes and colors and can be installed in numerous patterns.

DO'S & DONT'S! Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas | Design Lesson 11

Should backsplash be lighter or darker than countertop?

The design should be used to balance out the light and dark shades of the other elements, so if you have light cabinets and countertops, you may want to choose a dark backsplash to bring more depth to the kitchen. If you have very dark cabinets or countertops, a light backsplash will help the kitchen feel fresh.

What type of backsplash is easiest to clean?

Porcelain, ceramic, metal, and glass tile top the easy-care list because they resist staining, are naturally nonporous, and don't require any special cleansers to do the job.

Is matte subway tile hard to clean?

Matte tiles come in both glazed and unglazed form. They provide a more traditional look and feel in the space and allow for better traction. They are a great low maintenance choice for bathroom floors and entry areas where there is high traffic. Matte tiles also make it harder to see fingerprints/dirt/streaks.

Which is easier to clean polished or matte tile?

Requires Less Cleaning

Matte tiles don't show grime the way glossy tiles do. The reflective surface of the glossy tile will show soap scum and water stains very quickly. If you're someone who doesn't like to clean the shower in-between uses, matte tile is the best way to go.

How do you clean matte backsplash?

The trick to cleaning matte tiles is to use a mild solution of water with a very small amount of detergent and some vinegar. In most cases, 1 cup of vinegar and 1 tsp of dish soap to about 4 litres of water should do the trick.

Do matt finish tiles disadvantages?

1- STAINS ARE MORE STUBBORN

If they are any spills on the matt finish tiles, they will not be very easy to clean. As the matt tiles are not as smooth as gloss tiles, the stains stick to the floor and do not come off easily.

Is matte or glossy tiles better?

A matte tile offers a more sophisticated, reserved and subtle look to your entire decor, while gloss finish tiles are shiny and have a glaze that reflects light. It is ideal for small spaces as it opens up a room and makes it more spacious.

Can matte tile be polished?

Using glossy ceramic tile sealer or wax can make matte porcelain tile shiny. Soapy water, baking soda, ammonia-water solution, and vinegar solution are ideal alternatives if tile sealer or wax is unavailable.

How do I make my matte backsplash glossy?

With time, changes take place, and the tiles may become dull.
  1. So, how can you make matte porcelain tile glossy? ...
  2. Yes, just simply apply a gloss fluid all over the floor—clean the tiles before glossing, then gently apply thin layers of the liquid.

How do I choose a backsplash?

Choose a backsplash color that complements the countertop – it might create contrast or it might be in the same color story. The basic rule is that you shouldn't have a “busy” countertop with a “busy” backsplash. If you want one of these features to be a focal point, you should choose one or the other.

What is a matte finish tile?

In matte tiles, a special layer is added on the topmost layer to achieve a non-shiny and subtle look. The most prominent feature of matte tiles is their anti-slippery nature, which makes them ideal flooring options for all spaces, including those with high water usage like bathrooms, kitchens, and balconies.

Does matte porcelain tile need to be sealed?

The surface of most ceramic and porcelain tile does not need to be sealed, although some require a light application of a penetrating sealer to fill the micro pores on the surface of the tile. However, the grout joint between the tiles is usually very porous and generally made of a cement-based material.

What are the best tiles for kitchen walls?

Tiles That Are Perfect For Your Kitchen
  • Ceramic. Ceramic tiles are one of the most commonly used tiles for kitchen and bathroom flooring. ...
  • Glazed. Glazed tiles are used only for wall installation. ...
  • Mosaic. Easy in the eye, mosaic tiles add enhance the beauty of your kitchen walls and flooring. ...
  • Natural stone. ...
  • Quarry.

Are Matt ceramic tiles easy to clean?

Cleaning. Whilst matt tiles show up far less dirt and marks, they are actually tougher to clean than gloss tiles. Gloss tiles are easily wipeable and you can easily remove any marks quickly and effectively. With matt tiles, you need to scrub a lot more to remove any stains that may have appeared.

How do you clean matt tiles after grouting?

Instructions
  1. Wait for Grout to Cure. Wait for the grout to dry before using grout haze remover. ...
  2. Clean the Surface. Sweep or vacuum the tile thoroughly, and then wet-mop the tile to dampen it. ...
  3. Mix the Grout Haze Remover. Put on nitrile (chemical-resistant) or latex gloves. ...
  4. Scrub the Tiles. ...
  5. Rinse and Repeat.

Should your backsplash match your countertop?

When you coordinate your design elements and architectural features, colors don't have to match, but they should coordinate. Your backsplash tile doesn't have to mirror the color of your countertops, but it should blend, harmonize and support the rest of the features in the room.

What is the easiest kitchen backsplash to install?

Peel-and-stick tiles provide a cheap backsplash idea that's easier to install than traditional tile. The self-adhesive backing can be applied directly to the wall with no grout needed. The wide range of patterns lets you recreate the look of a bold tile backsplash without the high cost.

Should backsplash go behind stove?

You need a backsplash behind the stove to protect from grease and cooking splatter that could damage the surface behind the stove. The backsplash should be made of durable, nonabsorbent, and easy to clean material that will not discolor easily.

Are subway tiles out of style 2021?

“Subway tiles are classic and timeless, yet versatile, which is why they are so great. They aren't going anywhere in 2021 or beyond,” shares Erin Davis, lead designer at Mosaik Design & Remodeling in Portland, OR.

What can I put on my kitchen walls instead of tiles?

Think marbles, concretes, bricks, metallics and glossy blacks and whites – the opportunities are endless! Splashbacks are not only practical to help protect your walls from any unruly cooking, by they also prevent steam and heat from damaging the wall behind.

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