How To Choose A Backsplash Tile

 

 

Most people are under the false assumption that a kitchen’s backsplash is only necessary for enhancing the room’s look. However, a backsplash serves a greater purpose – to protect the wall it is installed on from water damage as well as oil and food splatters. 

 

Your kitchen is subjected to extreme temperature changes. This can affect the wall’s integrity. Couple with the moisture from water, oil, and food splatters, and you can see why a backsplash is so prudent for this room. 

 

There is so much detail that goes into a backsplash installation to ensure the wall behind it stays protected, looks good, and is functional. 

Backsplash tile for your dream kitchen can be a bit tricky. You want a backsplash that highlights the room’s other features while also protecting the wall it’s installed on. If you’re looking for durability and versatility in a backsplash, you need to look at the title backsplash option. 

 

From there, you need to determine which type of tile to use. Two factors will go into your decision:

 

Overall Focus of Backsplash

 

Certain areas of a kitchen naturally draw in attention – sink, and stove. Be sure to choose a decorative backsplash design that accentuates the areas.

 

Maintenance Level

 

Whatever tile material you go with, each one has a specific maintenance need. 

 

• Glass tiles must be cleaned with a non-abrasive cleaning product to keep it from becoming scratched. It’s recommended to use equal parts of vinegar and water to clean glass tiles. 
• Granite tiles must be cleaned with a stone-approved cleaning product and wiped with a lint-free cloth or paper towel until thoroughly cleaned. This type of tile also needs re-sealing every year. 
• Wood tiles should be cleaned with equal parts of vinegar and warm water and completely wiped clean. It should also be done every day to keep grease from accumulating. 

 

Glass vs. Ceramic and Porcelain Tile Backsplash

 

When it comes to choosing a tile type, you have many to choose from. The most popular tend to be glass, ceramic, and porcelain. 

 

• Glass Tile – This tile type brings a modern look to a kitchen. With its sleek, contemporary look, it can accentuate the room quite well. What makes them great is that the style never fades with time and is waterproof. However, glass tiles can easily break – something to be mindful of if you’re installing it near the sink or other high-use areas. 

 

• Ceramic and Porcelain – These tile types offer both durability and style, and better protect the wall they are installed on from water damage. Since a person’s budget plays a huge role in which kind of backsplash tile to go with, it’s worth noting that both options can meet most budgets without the compromise of material or design. 

 

As a general contractor in the northern Virginia area serving communities such as Alexandra, Arlington, Centreville, Fairfax, Falls Church, Great Falls, McLean, Oakton and Vienna, Jason Kidwell, the owner and operator of ExploreKitchens.com and owner of Explore Granite & Quartz of McLean, Va. can help you determine what type of backsplash mosaics is best and if tile backsplash the way to go. 

 

Amid a kitchen renovation and remodel, you need to find a company that has your best interest at heart. 

 

Choose Your Tile Design and Pattern

After you’ve decided on the material, you need to settle on a pattern or design. It’s important to note that a kitchen backsplash should be a highlight of your personality. Does your personality fit with any of the popular patterns mentioned below?

 

 Classic Subway – Recognized by the rectangular design put together to create a unified look, this type is ideal for people who want a simple but elegant pattern for a kitchen backsplash.

• Color Experimentation – Add color to your kitchen to give it some character. Offset the white or black countertops with a colorful backsplash. 
• Boho – This kind of tile can bring flair and style to your kitchen, breaking up the monotonous look of a classic subway look or highlighting the rustic kitchen theme.
• Retro – If you’re all about retro styles, you can bring in the old charm into the kitchen with square tiles. 

 

When You Need A Little Help With Your Kitchen Remodeling Process 

 

A kitchen backsplash will speak volumes for all who enter the room, but its functionality and versatility should be what you consider most of all. If you need help with your kitchen remodeling process – from new cabinets, new countertops to new kitchen flooring – then rest assured that the professionals at ExploreKitchens.com will make your dream kitchen.

 

Call 703-214-3417 today. You can also reach out to Explore via email at info@explorekitchens.com

 

Don’t forget to sign up for the Explore email newsletter by texting EXPLOREKITCHENS to 22828

 

Explore Cabinet Options