A Kitchen backsplash adds color, texture, interest, prevents damage, and makes cleaning easy above your cooking surfaces. Tiles can be arranged into millions of different patterns to create a design statement that is truly personal. If you aren’t confident about how to proceed, a good tile contractor can help you work through this somewhat daunting process and explain the correct application for each product. Not all tiles can be installed with the same methods.
When deciding on a new backsplash, here are the most important things to remember:
Choosing Tile
Take into consideration the style and color scheme of not only your kitchen cabinets but the flooring, hardware, and even furniture adjacent to the room. If the goal is to create a harmonious design that works with the existing space, then choose colors in similar hues. If you want to make a bold statement, consider bringing in a splash of color that contrasts with the room.
Choosing a Design Layout
Once you decide on the colors that you want, creating a design that is appealing yet stands the test of time is the goal. After all, you will be looking at this several times a day for the foreseeable future. To determine a design, place your tiles on the counter and play with different pattern combinations. Don’t be afraid to mix textures and colors – you never know what magic will ensue. If something is almost perfect, consider changing the size of the tile. The same tile in different sizes can create a completely different look. If you want to design a focal point, make sure that the area has enough space surrounding it so that it looks to scale.
Choosing Grout
Grout is often overlooked in tile projects. Contrasting grout will make the pattern stand out more, whereas grout in the same color will tend to disappear. Grout comes in two forms. Non-sanded is recommended for glass tiles, narrow joints, or glazed tiles. For all other applications, sanded grout is fine. Ask your tile contractor for grout samples and place them between the tiles you are considering to determine if the color will work with your design.
Installation
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good installation. A good tile contractor knows exactly how to treat each material so that the result is spectacular and exactly what you want. From ensuring a symmetrical layout from end-to-end to using the proper saw and setting material, your contractor should know how to give you a professional result.
