Granite backsplashes are usually cut from the same slab as granite countertops, so they match perfectly. Most of the time, a granite backsplash is 1.25 inches thick (3cm) and has a square edge at the top, even if the countertop has a curved edge.
Just like kitchen countertops, granite is a preferred choice for creating backsplashes among a lot of homeowners and designers all over the world.
Height Options
A standard height granite backsplash, which is about four inches, will be the least costly and it can be installed at the same time as the countertop. A shorter backsplash also allows your wall space to paint, tile or add other decorative elements between your counter and cabinets.
Granite backsplash sits on top of the counter and is attached to the wall with silicone. A thin line of clear caulk is used to seal the right angles where the backsplash meets and wall and where it meets the counters so that no crumbs or dust gets stuck in small spaces.
It's clean, classic and compliments any style of kitchen or countertop. Thickness Granite, marble and quartz is traditionally 1-1/4" (3CM) thick. Keep this thickness in mind when deciding whether or not to use this as a backsplash. It will affect nearby trim, cabinetry trim, outlets and more.
One fear that many have when it comes to a 4-inch granite backsplash is that the concept is outdated. However, this is far from the truth. While the style has come under fire in recent years for its dated appearance, you can easily modernize your backsplash to give it a unique and fresh appearance.
One of the biggest cons of a 4-inch backsplash over a full-tile backsplash is that the design is a little outdated. Though still a popular design, many kitchen designers tout the more modern and trendier full-tile design.
It can be tempting to choose the same materials and colors for your countertop and backsplash, but this option can look uninspired. Ultimately, selecting a well-coordinated backsplash and countertop is essential to the design of your kitchen. It's usually best to select your countertops first.
Is a Backsplash Necessary? Due to the amount of water and abuse that kitchens get, it's highly recommended that you have a backsplash along the back of your kitchen countertop.
Removing a 4-inch Granite Backsplash
You'll know that the knife has penetrated the caulk if it sinks more than about 3/4 inches behind the backsplash. Once the caulk bond has been severed, get a 2- or 4-inch rigid metal putty knife. Slip it between the backsplash and the wall and tap it sharply with a hammer.
The industry standards typically hover around 1 and 1/4 inch (or 3 centimeters) for granite and marble kitchen island countertops and 3/4 inch (or 2 centimeters) for bathroom granite and marble vanity tops.
Granite is a good choice for kitchen countertops; using tile rather than solid granite cuts the expense drastically. Make sure tiles are spaced closely to minimize grout staining; you can use tinted grout to achieve a more seamless look as well. Both the tile and the grout should be properly sealed.
Typically, a backsplash is lighter than your countertops. Bright kitchens are vibrant and inviting, so consider white, beige, light grey, and pastel colors for the backsplash. Go with a marbled design, shaped tiles, or contrasting grout to add contrast if you prefer a bold look.
The one spot where caulk, not grout, should be used is the seam between the countertop and the backsplash. The right material for that is a top-quality silicone caulk. The Tile Council of America suggests a 1/8-in. -wide caulk joint at the seam.
Countertops
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.
The common method used is a mortar mixture that is trowelled onto the stone tiles or slabs which are pressed firmly against the block to form the granite stone facing. To make the mortar you have to purchase sand, cement and plasticiser.
While you might want a backsplash to match your counter (and there are many custom, lovely ways to do that), don't be tempted to tile above a 4” granite, or stone, slab backsplash. Instead, before you tile that area, take the 4” slab backsplash off. Why? Because, typically, you only have 18” of height there.
Thinset can be used for showers, bathtubs, backsplashes and other areas. Walls, wainscots, dry backsplashes are key areas where tile mastic tends to be used. Thinset is inexpensive and it fills in gaps and depressions. Mastic is very sticky, grabs fast, and is quick setting.
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.
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.
Quartz offers a number of benefits that are ideal for backsplashes. Not only does the larger piece do a better job at protecting the wall from moisture, but this man-made, non-porous material also is stain resistant, doesn't require sealing, and cleans easily.
Subway tile is the most enduring choice for a backsplash. Avoid bold, trendy colors, and instead look for white or neutrals. Keep it simple, and bring in color elsewhere in the kitchen, with more easily replaced items, such as dish towels, art, bowls of fruit and rugs.
For years now, the 4-inch backsplash has been standard in most spec homes and continues to be a popular choice.
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.