Improve your kitchen with these backsplash materials!

We are all extremely careful when we choose the hardwood for our floor or the tiles for our shower, but when it comes to the kitchen backsplash, we tend not to care that much. But why do we do that?

People don’t talk at all about backsplash materials, and we are here today because we want to change that. Besides the functionality, the backsplash is a permanent piece of decor in your kitchen, and we believe that solely based on that, you should think more about the material you are planning to use.

If you rush and make a bad decision picking backsplash materials that you later realize you don’t like at all, you’ll have to see them every time you are cooking, cleaning up, or causally heading to the kitchen.

Read on and discover some useful information about backsplash materials. We hope that this will help you make the best decision and pick the backsplash materials that best suit your kitchen.

1. Porcelain tile or ceramic

There are a multitude of backsplash materials on the market, but when you are looking for something classical, you’ll never go wrong with porcelain tile or ceramic.

We’ll start with ceramic. This material is crafted from fired clay, and what makes it stand out is its durability. It’s also functional and can fit in any kitchen, from professional ones to regular ones.

It gracefully resists scratches, stains, and high temperatures. Because of this, we find it perfect for the everyday wear and tear of a busy kitchen.

Since the ceramic tiles are smaller than your usual tiles, they might require special installation, and because of this, the total costs might be a little bit more expensive.

Porcelain is the more refined cousin of ceramic and is made from a finer clay mixture that is fired at higher temperatures than basic ceramic. Due to the fabrication process, the tiles are sturdier and denser. In terms of strength, porcelain is superior to ceramic, and this makes it virtually indestructible in day-to-day kitchen activities.

Both ceramic and porcelain are incredible backsplash materials, and they offer low maintenance, so you don’t need to put in much effort to make them look amazing.

2. Metal tile

If you want something more modern that can add a touch of your personality to the decor of your kitchen, metal tiles can be the perfect choice for you.

They are not one of the traditional backsplash materials, and you can also see it in their history. These metal tiles were initially crafted from repurposed tin ceiling tiles, and nowadays they give a mesmerizing industrial look to any kitchen.

Nowadays, metal tiles are a well-known backsplash material, and you can find them in a variety of sizes, textures, and finishes.

Besides their versatility, many people like metal tiles because they’re easy to install. Due to the adhesive backing, the installation might feel like a breeze, but considering they are made from metal, this makes the initial cost higher than for other backsplash materials.

Also, one big disadvantage of these tiles is that they can scratch and dent incredibly easily compared to other materials on this list. Even more, acidity is another factor that can deteriorate them, and acidic liquids are quite popular in a kitchen.

Indeed, metal is beautiful and can give your kitchen that sleek vibe, but unfortunately, it will naturally tarnish over time, which might be a drawback for many people.

3. Faux metal

Hopefully, you can get that sleek look without buying metal tiles! Say goodbye to the high cost, susceptibility to scratches, and potential for discoloration, and welcome fax metal into your life.

This one of the backsplash materials is made from thermoplastic and is a great alternative to traditional metal tiles. You might say that plastic can never mimic metal, but we are here to contradict you. Faux metal mimics it with surprising accuracy, and you can find it in many finishes, from copper to nickel. You can finally have your dream kitchen without spending a fortune.

Installation is also easy, and you don’t need any specialty tools. Some scissors and adhesive, or double-sided tape, are more than enough. But there are also some limitations.

However, there are also some limitations you need to consider before making this choice. Thermoplastic tiles are not durable at all, and if temperatures are higher than 140°F, this might be a big problem for these tiles.

So, even if they are cheaper than most backsplash materials, these tiles might not be suitable if you want something durable.

4. Countertop material

When it comes to backsplash materials, countertop material is one of the most popular choices. Many people opt to use the same material for the countertop as their backsplash. This is an integrated aesthetic because an illusion will be created. One that makes the countertop and the backsplash look like they blend into each other.

If you think that this is the way to go for you, we suggest using solid surfaces and quartz countertops, as they are perfect for this purpose. They are more resistant to heat and to kitchen-specific grime.

One advantage of this approach is that the backsplash will be attached to the countertop itself rather than the wall, and this creates a waterproof barrier because there will be no

seams.

But considering that the backsplash comes from the same slab as your countertop, you can expect a higher price than other alternatives on this list. Also, the installation prices can be more technical, and because of this, you will need a professional to take care of it.

5. Natural stone tile

This one is for those who prefer fancy backsplash materials. Few materials can match the sophistication and elegance of natural stone, but as you’d expect, the costs will be higher than average. Premium quality at a premium price, right?

One of the most popular choices and also one of the most expensive ones is travertine tiles. Travertine is manufactured using limestone, and because of this, it gives your kitchen a natural and earthy vibe. Also, the textures vary so much that there are no two travertine backsplashes that look the same.

It seems like a cool idea if you have enough money, but besides the price, natural stone tile has some other drawbacks. Stone is porous, which means it needs a higher level of maintenance. Regular cleaning is a must, and from time to time, you’ll also need to seal if you want to prevent decoloration and stains.

If you want to try another type of stone instead of travertine, you can count on other natural stones like granite, slate, and marble. Granite is the most durable one, and it also comes in some interesting colors and patterns, while marble is a classic choice that will always add elegance to your space.

With so many good backsplash material options to choose from, be sure you can find something that fits your style and your kitchen. Design, budget, and lifestyle are the main factors you need to consider when choosing a backsplash material.

If you want an extra layer of protection, a backsplash protector might be what you are looking for: Clear Contact Paper, Protection for Kitchen Backsplash Tiles, Cabinets, Walls, and Shelves

You should also read: 6 Proven Tips for Removing Wallpaper Like a Pro