Since many of you appreciated the blog on kitchen backsplashes last April, I thought I’d add a couple of ideas about materials. I’ve seen everything from recycled construction bricks to laminated children’s fingerpaintings on paper for backsplash materials. It ultimately comes down to what floats your boat—that, and whether it complements your kitchen cabinets and counters.
Better Homes and Gardens has a nice rundown on the range of materials, with ample photos to give you an idea how great backsplashes can look. Let’s review some of the basic materials they recommend:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel can be employed in sheets or tiles, depending on your look. If the materials work well with your cabinets, counters, and flooring, steel makes a great choice. Why? Because you can spatter a gallon of spaghetti sauce all over it and clean it off with a sponge and dish soap!
Slate
Slate creates a handsome look in modern, craftsman, or even farmhouse kitchens if you choose the right color stone. You’ll have to seal it, though, because the material can be porous enough to absorb liquids and become discolored.
Limestone
Limestone also needs sealing against stains and liquids, but it lends a European look with subtle contrasting colors. Be sure to bring home sample tiles to match the stone with your existing cabinets and counters.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles come in such a wide range of colors and textures that you’re bound to find a good match. Better Homes recommends using a faux brick arrangement of tiles for creating great flair.
Glass
Glass, used as a plate surface or as tiles, can be the perfect complement in a modern or contemporary kitchen where black and white tones are the norm. You can install it right over a painted drywall or over another thin covering. And everyone knows how to clean glass!
