What kind of tile is best for backsplash?

Author: Dr. Jennifer Goyette III  |  Last update: Saturday, June 25, 2022

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.

What type of tile is best for backsplash?

Porcelain/Ceramic Tile

Ceramic (or porcelain) tile for a kitchen backsplash is the most popular and widely used option mainly because it's very resilient, most economical out of other options. They often come in complimentary sizes with larger field tiles for the floor.

What is the most durable backsplash?

Porcelain tile is most likely the most durable option, while ceramic and glass, which aren't as strong as porcelain, can also last for years. These materials won't warp when wet and will keep their vibrant colors for a long time.

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.

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.

Choosing Your Perfect Backsplash Tile

Is quartz a good backsplash?

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.

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.

Is matte or glossy 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.

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.

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 type of tiles are best for kitchen walls?

Ceramic tiles are one of the most commonly used tiles for kitchen and bathroom flooring. This is because these tiles have a very low moisture absorption rate. This makes it best for high-moisture areas in a home. However, make sure the Coefficient of Friction (COF) rating, mostly mentioned on the box, is 0.50.

What is granite backsplash?

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.

What is subway tile?

Subway tile is by definition a rectangular, thick, low-fired, glazed ceramic tile, traditionally 3" by 6", though it comes in a variety of sizes for home use.

What size tile should I use for my backsplash?

If you want your kitchen to remain timeless in design, we suggest sticking with a classic field tile size such as a 3 x 6 subway tile or a 4 x 4 in a straight-set pattern. Or add some design detail with a herringbone pattern. Field tile will transcend trends, making your tile backsplash a sustainable design feature.

What can I use for a kitchen backsplash?

  1. Paint Your Existing Backsplash. ...
  2. Install a Beadboard Backsplash. ...
  3. Use Peel-and-Stick Tile. ...
  4. Make a Faux-Brick Backsplash. ...
  5. Make a Metal Backsplash Out of Roof Tiles. ...
  6. Make Your Backsplash Out of Laminate Flooring.

What is difference between porcelain and ceramic?

The major difference between porcelain tile and ceramic tile is how it's made. Both tiles are made from a clay mixture that's fired in a kiln, but porcelain tile is made from more refined clay and it's fired at higher temperatures. This makes it denser and more durable than ceramic tile.

Where do you stop backsplash tile?

The best rule for kitchen backsplash placement is to look for a natural stopping point. This could be a wall, a window, a cabinet edge, or anything else in between. You can use tile edging trim or bullnose tile to create a distinct edge for the backsplash.

What is the most popular 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.

How much does installing a backsplash cost?

Backsplash Installation Cost

Installing a backsplash in your kitchen costs an average of $1,000. You could pay as little as $600 or as much as $1,350. Your local tile contractor could charge you a minimum fee of $160 for labor, or add $10 per square foot to your material estimate.

Is matte tile 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.

Should kitchen tiles be glossy or matte?

Spaces such as hallways, kitchens and bathrooms will all benefit from matt tiles. Unlike gloss tiles, matt tiles can better conceal smudges, stains and dried water droplets. Matt tiles do not require frequent cleaning, and when you do clean them, there is no need to be as vigilant for water and soap marks.

What is glass backsplash?

Essentially, the glass sheet backsplash is a sheet of glass that can be painted in the color of your choice and then installed on your wall. This approach offers a completely customizable look while being highly functional as it is easy to maintain and clean.

What is a timeless kitchen backsplash?

There are many timeless options for a kitchen backsplash such as hexagon tiles, picket tile, penny tile, and square format tile (just to name a few). Timeless Backsplash Tip: Opt for a natural stone like marble or slate for a more traditional and timeless look. For example, marble or slate mosaic tile!

Does kitchen backsplash add value?

If you are looking for an easy way to instantly increase the value of your home, then adding a kitchen backsplash is a great idea! A backsplash will not only add charter and charm to your home, it increases the value of your biggest home asset—the kitchen! The good news is that tile doesn't have to be expensive.

What style is Arabesque tile?

Arabesque originates from Arabic and Moorish design, often being a part of scrolls. This design looks organic and had rhythm in its patterns of foliage as well as plain lines. Now, arabesque tiles take from that idea and style and create tile shapes that can be used as flooring, wall covering and backsplash.

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