How to Choose a Tile Design For Your Backsplash

Adding a backsplash to your kitchen is one of the best ideas when you’re doing a bit of remodeling. Not only does it add more functionality, a backsplash can also add a personalized decorative touch to the kitchen.

Thanks to their stain and scratch resistance as well as their wide variety of colors and design, tiles are among the most common materials used for kitchen backsplashes. Perhaps the biggest consideration when deciding on a tile design for your kitchen backsplash is the kind of tile itself and the styling of the kitchen cabinets. Here’s a list of different tile materials and what they bring to the table.

Types of Backsplash Tiles

• Laser-cut tile – You can come up with very intricate designs with these tiles. Unfortunately, they are among the most expensive tiles available since most of them are made of precious materials like quartz and marble. Handmade gold- or silver-backed glass tiles are also available.
• Mirrored tile – Mirrored tiles can be used to create a reflective, textured backsplash. These tiles add a classy touch to the kitchen, especially when installed in a serving station or butler’s pantry. The reflective qualities of the tile also help create an illusion of space.
• Diagonal tile – A diagonal tile is just a normal square tile rotated and placed at an angle. It may be a simple solution, but it can add a more playful vibe to an otherwise dull design. Keep in mind that placing tiles diagonally is more labor intensive and requires more tiles than usual as more cuts need to be made.
• Large patterned tile – Overscaled pattern tiles are popular right now as they can be customized to seamlessly repeat like wallpaper. You’ll need to make pre-installation layouts for your design carefully, however, to ensure that the tiles are even.
• Subway tile – As its name suggests, this type of tile is most often used in subways all around the world. It’s a timeless classic that lends an air of rustic sophistication.
• Herringbone tile – If texture is what you’re after, you won’t ever go wrong with a herringbone tile. Most herringbone tiles are easy to install since they come with a mesh backing that holds several tiles together. You can also use subway tiles to create a herringbone pattern.
• Custom and specialty shaped tile – You’re limiting your imagination if you keep thinking of tiles as square shapes. More and more manufacturers are now offering uniquely-shaped tiles. These tiles call out for attention and can become a very effective set piece that ties your kitchen design together.
• Custom mosaic tile – Got a design in mind that’s not available as a tile pattern? If you have the budget you can sketch out your own design and have it turned into a custom trimmed mosaic tile backsplash. Perfect for those who want to place their own personal stamp in their kitchen. Some manufacturers also offer pre-cut mosaic designs.

More Backsplash Design Tips

Choosing the type of tile for your backsplash is important but it’s just one part of the backsplash design process.  Here are a few more tips to make sure you get the perfect kitchen backsplash:

• Try to think about your budget first before deciding on a look. You wouldn’t want to spend most of your money on an expensive backsplash and be left with next to nothing for the rest of the remodeling costs.
• Your backsplash will be put under a lot of punishment depending on what and how often you cook, so choose a material that can withstand the rigors of your daily kitchen habits.
• Choose a color that not only represents your personality but also complements the other decorative elements of your kitchen. The backsplash is just a part of a much bigger whole, after all.
• If you’re not a professional, get a qualified backsplash installer to do the job. It’ll cost extra but you can rest easy knowing that your backsplash will be secure.