How to Choose a Backsplash
Many homeowners are unaware that the beautiful backsplashes that add color and creativity to a kitchen have a functional purpose as well. A backsplash is generally a tiled surface that is easy to clean and maintain, while protecting the walls of a kitchen. It is located behind the stove, sink and kitchen prep area. In addition to choosing a backsplash that serves its purpose, choose one that is distinct and visually interesting to add flair to your kitchen space. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Determine your budget. Like any other home improvement project, your budget dictates your options. For example, simple tile is a low-cost option. If you have a more generous budget, you can get more creative with materials. More expensive options include metal laminates, stone tile, granite, glass or slate. Include the cost of labor in your budget estimations.
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Decide the length of the run. The backsplash can wrap around the entire kitchen to give the appearance of continuity in design. This not only looks nice, but makes the entire space look bigger. Some homeowners opt to add a backsplash to the essential areas of the kitchen (the sink area and behind the range), focusing only on its functional properties. This draws attention to the individual bursts of color in the kitchen, courtesy of the backsplash.
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Choose the height of the backsplash treatment. To do this, consider the other decorative themes in the kitchen. Pay attention to outlets, shelving and anything else that may get in the way of a taller backsplash, though an expert should be able to work around any of these elements. If visual continuity is important, choose a backsplash that starts at the bottom of the wall cabinets and extends to the next wall. Backsplash height is a matter of personal preference and taste.
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Shop for stimulating backsplash colors. Opt for a muted, conservative color palette if the rest of your kitchen is bright and cheery or cluttered. If you have a fairly simple kitchen, use the backsplash to make a statement of color. Consider using more than one color. Some backsplash experts allow consumers to mix color palettes to come up with something new for their backsplash.
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Try alternative patterns and textures for backsplashes. Install a checkerboard design of light and dark tile, for example. Play with texture, using roughly finished tiles for something more rustic or shiny pieces for something more sleek and sophisticated.
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Play with material ideas for your backsplash. Common materials used in backsplash designs include ceramic tiles, natural stone tiles, porcelain tiles, glass tiles and stainless steel. Ceramic and porcelain tile are the most widely used backsplash materials because they are durable and easy to clean. Stone tiles are stunning but aren't as durable, making them more difficult to maintain. Glass tile and stainless-steel backsplashes are eye-catching, easy to clean and scratch-resistant, a level of durability that adds to their appeal.
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Tips & Warnings
Many homeowners opt to do backsplash installation themselves. For those who have a knack for home improvement projects, the job is manageable but time-consuming. Homeowners who are not handy with home-remodeling materials should leave this project to an expert.
