Upgrade your kitchen with a new tile backsplash
Professionals agree that one of the best ways to add value to your home is to upgrade your kitchen. However, if a full remodel isn’t in the budget right now, there is a quick and easy way to add value to your kitchen without breaking the bank: a tile backsplash.
What is a backsplash
A backsplash is the tile that is installed on the wall space between the countertop and cabinet.
Benefits of a backsplash
In addition to being a relatively easy-on-the-pocketbook kitchen upgrade, there are many other benefits to adding or updating a kitchen backsplash including:
- Cabinetry and appliances typically do not have to be removed when installing or replacing
- It’s a quick upgrade that can be completed in as little as two-to-three days
- It’s aesthetically pleasing and an easy way to add charm and character
- It’s functional in that it helps to keep the walls from getting dirty and is easy to clean
- The options are endless as far as tile color, texture, and design
Cost of a backsplash
The cost of a backsplash depends on the materials you choose and the amount of wall space you’d like to cover. To give you some idea of the cost of installing a backsplash, here are some recent averages that homeowners have spent on their kitchen backsplash upgrade based on the square footage involved:
- For 20 square feet of tile, you can expect to pay between $600 and $730
- For 30 square feet of tile, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1,000
- For 40 square feet of tile, you can expect to pay $1,000 or above
Tips for choosing your kitchen backsplash
With so many options available for tile color and design, choosing a backsplash can be difficult. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect backsplash to add value to your kitchen:
1. Neutral-colored tile and a simple design: If you are adding a backsplash for the purpose of resale value, think more neutral — accommodating the many different personal styles of prospective home buyers would be impossible. Subway tiles are great for creating a neutral backsplash. The timeless rectangular tiles are stylish, easy to maintain and durable enough to handle daily wear-and-tear. Travertine tile is also a great way to create a more neutral-colored backsplash, as it comes in an assortment of gold, cream, gray, white and brown colors. Travertine is a form of limestone, making it a porous and semi-soft material for a backsplash that will require a coat or two of sealant to keep mold and mildew at bay.
2. Create a focal point: Create a focal point around the cooking areas in your kitchen. For example, if you are using a neutral color tile for your backsplash, try to use a different color tile or design around the stove and perhaps even the sink. Subway tiles come in a wide variety of colors from which to choose.
3. Accentuate: Another way to add character and interest to your backsplash without spending a lot of money is by using handmade ceramic tiles or some other more detailed, expensive tile as accents for your backsplash. It will provide a unique look at a fraction of the cost.
4. Change the orientation: For a more modern look, install your tiles vertically. Or, to make your backsplash a distinguished focal point in the room, try placing tiles on the diagonal.
5. Mix and match: If your counter tops are a solid color, a backsplash made up of colorful tiles looks great and won’t clash with the counter.
6. Enlarging effect: To make a small kitchen appear larger, try using the same color tile all over the room, creating a sense of visual infinity.