If you’re looking to update your kitchen with new details, whether your house is brand new or lived-in, one of the easiest ways to make an impact is to upgrade your existing backsplash. Backsplash can add a pop of color, establish balance between design elements, and make your kitchen look extra interesting. Keep reading to find out how to design your kitchen backsplash from the ground up.
Determine the layout of your kitchen. Take note of how your kitchen is established, and where your appliances are in your kitchen. You can’t install new backsplash without knowing the layout of your kitchen first. Once you understand the layout, you can decide where you want to install the backsplash. Some people prefer it only over the stove. Others prefer to have it serve as a sort of decorative wall. You don’t have to install backsplash all the way up your kitchen wall. Having a shorter backsplash actually requires less materials and can be a budget-friendly option for your kitchen, especially if you are looking to save money. If you have shelves in your space, you can easily put backsplash underneath the shelves, or work around them accordingly. By deciding what you want in terms of a layout, this can also help you determine how much backsplash material you need.
Measure, measure, measure. You always want to ensure that you have the right amount of backsplash material, as you don’t want to run out and have it look uneven or unfinished. Take all of the measurements required, and then add a 10% cutting allowance. This helps you have enough room to cut the backsplash and allow for any little mistakes. If there is a special pattern involved, or border material, this takes more measuring and planning. A professional installer can assist you with proper amounts of material, so don’t be afraid to consult them. If you are installing the backsplash by yourself, here are the extra materials you will need:
- Ditra. Ditra is an uncoupling mat designed to reduce breakage in tile. It is laid down before you install your backsplash. It has a grid structure, and this structure helps spread out any stress on the tile instead of pinpointing the energy on one tile and breaking it.
- Mortar. Mortar is a type of paste. This paste is used to place the backsplash, and it hardens in place.
- Grout. Grout is a fluid used to fill in any backsplash gaps. It is a mixture of cement, water, and sand. Grout comes in a large amount of colors, so make sure the color you choose works well with the backsplash you have chosen.
Consider your design and make sure it fits your style. You need to take a good look at your kitchen and decide whether or not the backsplash you chose flows well with the existing design in the kitchen. Sure, a pop neon tile looks beautiful, but does it match the rustic aesthetic of your kitchen cabinets? You need to decide whether or not you have a specific style you are going for, and whether or not you’d like to maintain this style. You can use backsplash to create a more modern or unique atmosphere in your kitchen. For example, if you enjoy nature or the beach, you can create a whimsical inlay of nature shapes as your backsplash. Take stock of what your cabinets, floors, countertops, and wall color look like. This will help you decide whether or not the backsplash you chose works cohesively with each design element. You may have very dark wood floors, but decide you want to balance out the color with a splash of gray and white with the backsplash.
Weigh out the positives and negatives of backsplash materials. There are different materials to consider when creating a backsplash, and each kind of material has their strengths and drawbacks. Here are some strengths and drawbacks of the different kinds:
- Ceramic and porcelain tile: Ceramic and porcelain tile are the least expensive sort of tile, very durable, and versatile. This type of tile is also very easy to clean. This sort of tile comes in all different colors, sizes, and shapes.
- Glass tile: Glass tile is incredibly striking and stunning, but double the price of ceramic and porcelain tile. Glass tile is best for a modern kitchen, or if you want really bold color. If the glass is a little transparent, keep in mind that the adhesive underneath might show through and change the overall color.
- Granite: If you have granite countertops, did you know you can extend the granite up the wall for a granite backsplash? Granite provides a beautiful, seamless look, but it is expensive, much like glass.
- Other materials: Don’t neglect to check out other materials, such as copper or tin, or even antique wood flooring. However, make sure you seal these materials appropriately so you are able to clean them thoroughly to prevent germs.
Find inspiration. Use a variety of internet sites and magazines to search up pictures of backsplash ideas. Let your inspiration guide you! If you have an idea in mind, search it online and compare images. Print out images and place them in your kitchen to see if the color would mesh well with your existing decor.
Now that you’ve learned all about backsplash design, it’s time to get started! For all of your backsplash needs, contact Capitol Granite. They specialize in helping you transform your kitchen, and they have an eye for bringing out the beauty of your home. Send them a message or give them a call today!
