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Tl;dr

Installing a kitchen backsplash is a popular home improvement project that enhances both the functionality and look of your kitchen. While this can be an easier project to complete, homeowners may still have questions and encounter challenges during the kitchen renovation process.

Common questions include:

• Should I use backsplash in my kitchen?
• What are the best backsplash materials?
• What are the current kitchen backsplash trends?
• What Backsplash products will look the best over time?
• Is backsplash installation an easy DIY project?
• How much does it cost to add backsplash to my kitchen?
• Common Pain Points in Backsplash Installation and How to Avoid Them

If you are looking for a low-cost kitchen update - read more below about the current backsplash trends, DIY backsplash installation, backsplash materials, and much more!

Why You Should Install a Kitchen Backsplash Today

The backsplash in a kitchen is an element that aids in tying together the look and style of the room. The variety of materials, shapes, colors, and patterns give homeowners endless options for customizing their kitchen space. A backsplash can also be functional - it protects the walls from messy splashes and stains that are common in the kitchen. The real question isn’t typically IF backsplash should be utilized, it’s how to pick the right backsplash for your kitchen. Depending on what you pick, a backsplash can make a statement as a fun visual using unique patterns and colors –or– your backsplash may be nearly unnoticeable yet serve as the missing piece to tie in the kitchen cabinets, countertops, and flooring.

The cost to install a backsplash can vary based on the materials and labor needed, yet it remains one of the lower-cost options for giving your home a new look!

With so many options, it may be easy to become overwhelmed by this decision. Continue reading for our best tips related to picking the right backsplash!

Popular Materials for a Durable and Stylish Kitchen Backsplash

Choosing the right material is key to achieving a durable and beautiful backsplash. Popular options include:

• Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles: Affordable, durable, and low-maintenance.
• Quartz: Available in tile or slab form, offering heat resistance and a sleek, modern look.
• Glass: Adds a modern touch with a reflective surface that brightens the room.
• Natural Stone: Timeless and elegant, though it requires more maintenance.
• Solid Surface: A versatile, seamless option that is non-porous, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain. 

A popular kitchen trend is the extension of the countertop material up the wall as the backsplash for a seamless, clean look - sometimes referred to as a slab backsplash. This look is often accomplished with quartz or marble countertops.

Tips for creating a trendy, yet timeless kitchen style with backsplash

If you have done any research, you will probably find that subway tile backsplash has been trending for many years. The new spin on the traditional subway tile is the use of different colors, sizes, and patterns for laying the tile. Common subway tile colors may include white or off-white, green, blue, pink, or black. Sizes range from the traditional subway tile size to long and skinny, or even a square version of the tile. The fun element to this tile is the many ways it can be installed - the traditional alternating horizontal pattern can also be stacked, vertically stacked, herringbone pattern, vertically alternating, and many other ways.

The other backsplash trend making its way through homes is the slab backsplash mentioned above. We love the look of a timeless, veined quartz or marble countertop that extends up the walls between your cabinets. The use of the same material for the countertop and backsplash creates a sleek look and eliminates the sometimes challenging task of finding a color and style that coordinates well with other materials, but there are also many practical benefits. Benefits include:

• ease of cleaning (less grout)
• longevity (less maintenance required)
• durability (heat/moisture resistance);
• enhancement of smaller spaces (the seamless look will improve the overall visual representation of your room)
• and many more.

At Home Outlet, we partner with HausPro, a trusted full-service countertop vendor, to help you achieve the seamless slab backsplash look you’ve been dreaming of. HausPro offers comprehensive services, including precise measurements, expert design guidance, and professional installation. Best of all, there’s no need to search for an additional installer – HausPro handles everything from start to finish, ensuring a hassle-free experience with stunning results.

While the slab backsplash option does require a greater financial investment, we believe it is a trend that is here to stay.

Backsplash products that stand the test of time

Calacatta Arlo | Quartz

Quartz is a great option - the material is extremely durable due to being non-porous, stain-resistant, and heat-resistant. It’s easy to clean and does not require sealing. This option will age well in durability and style, offering a clean, natural look.

Solid surface materials are another excellent choice. They are available in a variety of colors and patterns, mimicking natural stone or offering bold modern designs. With their non-porous, stain-resistant surface and sleek, uniform appearance, they’re perfect for custom applications that prioritize both style and practicality.

Stella La Perla | Ceramic Tile

The next best option is a ceramic or porcelain tile. These materials are also durable and require little maintenance overtime. Unlike a natural stone, they are also less likely to chip or crack over time. These popular backsplash materials can often be found in the form of individual tiles or mosaic tiles, meaning the small pieces of the tile are already pieced together to create a pattern.

Is backsplash installation an easy DIY project?

The choice to DIY your backsplash project will depend heavily on the material selected, the pattern, and your level of experience. Backsplash installation is a more common DIY project, but it’s important to understand the project needs before getting started. In addition to skill level, you will need a complete understanding of the materials and tools needed, proper measurements of the space, and a plan for completing the project.

Tiles that come as a sheet are often much easier to install than a single tile that has to be laid individually, or a custom-fit slab backsplash that would require a much higher skill level due to the weight of the materials and precision required.

Common Pain Points in Backsplash Installation and How to Avoid Them

While adding backsplash to your kitchen can be a relatively easy home renovation project, it’s important to be aware of the common project challenges before you start, and how to avoid them. These challenges may include improper measurements, the wrong grout color, not researching the materials and maintenance requirements, ignoring the current kitchen style, and poor installation.

Pain Point: Improper Kitchen Measurements

What to know: Gathering the correct measurements of your space, including the placement of outlets, appliances, and cabinets, is vital to ordering the right amount of material for your project.

Solution: Watch this helpful video about how to collect accurate measurements in your kitchen space.

Pain Point: Budget ConstraintsWhat to know: Kitchen backsplash additions can easily be achieved with a wide range of budgets - as long as you do the research before you start to ensure the products you fall in love with also fit into your budget. As a rule of thumb, porcelain and ceramic tile backsplash options are going to be more budget and installation-friendly. A quartz slab will be on the pricier side but may offer more longevity. It’s important to weigh the cost and features of each product.Solution: Determine your budget for the project first to narrow down the type of backsplash materials you are going to consider. If the backsplash is part of a larger kitchen remodel, consider prioritizing budget dollars toward your “must-have” items and saving in other areas. Home Outlet Kitchen Designers are skilled in helping customers save money and achieve their dream kitchen.

Gems Cobalto Fluted Tile | Porcelain Tile (SLE - MSI Surfaces)

Pain Point: Choosing the Wrong Grout Color

What to know: The grout color can completely change the overall look of your kitchen and can be a costly error if you are not happy with the final look.

Solution: While you can see grout colors in the store, we recommend purchasing a small amount of tile and testing 2-3 different grout colors to see how the colors coordinate with your room and to determine which look you prefer.

Paint Point: Not Considering Maintenance Requirements

What to know: There are materials used for kitchen backsplash that may not be easy to clean and/or require maintenance over time. If you are not up to the task, you may want to consider a more durable material that does not require routine maintenance. Quartz slabs, as well as porcelain and ceramic tiles, are low-maintenance options, but for natural stone, regular sealing is essential to prevent stains. Glass may require more frequent cleaning to keep its shine. To recap - we recommend porcelain or ceramic tile, or quartz slab, for backsplash longevity.

Solution: If maintenance requirements are an important part of your decision-making, more extensive research related to each backsplash material may be needed to ensure you are happy with your selection.

Pain Point: Ignoring the Kitchen's Existing Style

What to know: While it may seem tempting to jump on the latest trend, it may not be right for your kitchen. Consider the colors, styles, and materials of other elements in your kitchen and how they will pair up with a new, trendier backsplash. This may require some research to see examples of how products can be used and combined to create a seamless look. As an example, if your kitchen countertop has an extremely busy pattern and/or loud color, you may choose to skip the backsplash or find something subtle to complement and not compete with the existing materials.

Solution: Utilize the free expertise and advice from Home Outlet store representatives to help narrow your options. There are also many peer groups and forums online that offer design suggestions.

Pain Point: Poor Installation

What to know: Poor installation of backsplash tiles can lead to the misalignment of the backsplash and the potential waste of investment. If you are not confident you can DIY the project, spend some time to find a trusted installer to complete your job the right way.

Solution: It’s important that you are honest with yourself about the type of DIY project you are capable of performing. Poor installation may lead to errors that cost a lot of time and money to fix. We recommend asking for quotes from a professional to weigh the cost of installation vs the potential risk of a new DIY project.

Pain Point: Matching products to your style

What to know: It’s helpful to do some research both in the store and online to browse different styles and products to see what stands out. For example - if you want to achieve a Farmhouse Kitchen look, you may consider a white subway tile with dark grout. If you are looking for a sleek, modern kitchen, then you may like the quartz slab backsplash.

Solution: Home Outlet store representatives are always happy to provide guidance and recommendations to help suit your style! Browse tile and backsplash tile here.

Why you Should Choose Home Outlet for Your Kitchen Backsplash Needs

Home Outlet offers a wide selection of quality materials both in-store and online for a variety of home renovation projects, including kitchen backsplash installations. For those harder-to-find products, Home Outlet also offers thousands of options through a special order program called Spend Less Express. If you are doing a full kitchen renovation, free design services are available as you plan your project. And, as a 100% employee-owned company, Home Outlet offers excellent service, expert advice, and a Guaranteed Lowest Price commitment.

Conclusion

Kitchen backsplash installation is a popular project in home renovations that can be done as a DIY project or through the help of a professional. Picking the right backsplash material for your project can be a difficult decision because it enhances both the look and functionality of your space. While the cost and time for backsplash installation is relatively low compared to other home updates, it’s important to understand the common challenges and how to avoid mishaps in your backsplash installation project.

We recommend learning more about the material options offered for backsplash and the features of each relating to durability, maintenance, style, installation, and cost. Last - determine your style and what kind of look you want for your kitchen! The backsplash can tie it all together or make a bold statement. It’s up to you to decide which kitchen backsplash matches your homes’ personality.

Visit your local Home Outlet today to discuss for expert advice, free design services, or simply to browse the backsplash tile selection. Find the nearest location here. 

About the Author

With over 15 years of experience in marketing and sales, Danial R. specializes in crafting strategic content for both online and offline audiences, driving internal communications, and staying ahead of industry trends. For the past six years, she's focused on the building materials industry, attending national design shows annually to bring fresh insights and inspiration to her work. Having recently built her own home, she brings a hands-on perspective to home improvement projects and shares practical advice based on real-world experience. She holds a degree in Marketing Management and a Master of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing, blending academic expertise with industry know-how to help homeowners and professionals achieve their goals.

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