It’s March and we are back on day-light savings time. We will have more daylight, and there is hope that this winter will end! With thoughts of longer days and sunshine let’s spring into action and consider a new project. In this post, I wanted to discuss ideas for your kitchen backsplash. The backsplash is a focal point in your kitchen and allows you the opportunity to be creative. I have been to many homes and find that this is the one area that is neglected or drab and boring. It doesn’t have to be, and the products that are available now make the job easy!
Get Inspired!
Go through beautiful photos from HGTV.com or on Houzz.com to get ideas and see what you like. Generally, you want to compliment your backsplash with your counter top. Don’t be afraid to use large open space areas, such as behind your stove or sink, for an accent look.
Do-It-Yourself?
It has never been easier! There is a new product, Simple Mat that is available at home centers; such as, Home Depot that replaces traditional thin set mortar, which allows users the ability to tile onto the mat an hour at a time, it bonds instantly so you can grout immediately. This makes the whole process of doing your own backsplash a breeze!
If you’re interested in a quick change, there are self-adhesive tiles as used in these HGTV remodels. If you are looking for how-to instructions for different types of tiles, go to diynetwork.com. Your local home store also may offer free how-to classes, click here to view classes at the Home Depot in your area. Would you like to use an eco-friendly tile, or want an unusual look? Modwalls® offers some beautiful options of bamboo and cork tiles. I found this stunning idea from Design Galleria, where they used a piece of marble as an “artistic†backsplash, view and read about it by clicking here.
Things to keep in mind:
- When mixing tiles be sure to use tiles of the same thickness.
- Consider what types of trim pieces you will need to finish off the backsplash. You will want to be sure that the trim pieces go with the tile you have selected in glaze and thickness.
- How easy is it to clean the tile?
- Does the tile require a sealant; such as, a natural stone, bamboo and cork?
- Pick the proper grout for your tile. To read more about this, click here.
- Choose the proper grout color for the look you are trying to achieve. Basically, there are three options: match the grout color with the tile, contrast the tile color, or go neutral.
If you need help selecting colors or trying to find the desired look in your kitchen, contact Debbie@RedesignRight.com for a redesign and color analysis.
By Debbie Correale, Redesign Right, LLC.