Tile gives you the chance to create a solid surface by combining small, hard objects with a binding grout. Depending on the tile you choose, you can create images or enjoy a wide, blank surface.
1. Tile is Easier to Clean
If you tend to do a lot of frying, putting in a backsplash of top-quality tile can make it easier to keep your kitchen clean. A matte finish tile, installed with an epoxy grout, can quickly be degreased. It’s important to remember that a backsplash can be awkward to get to. If you’re tall, it’s awkward to bend and reach back to the surface. If you’re short, it may be tough to reach. A plain sheetrock or plaster backsplash that is painted may be constantly grease-spattered. You can easily remove food spatters and oil from your tiled backsplash.
2. Tile is Heat Resistant
If you have a toaster, crockpot, deep fryer, or air fryer that sits on the counter near your backsplash, heat build-up can be a real concern. A tiled backsplash will tolerate more heat, can disperse heat more effectively, and won’t be discolored by heat or grease.
Those who prefer to leave a lot of appliances on the counter all the time for the sake of convenience will want to plan any mosaics or special patterns; a pretty image needs to be shown off!
3. Tile Can Be Subtle
If you’re more of a minimalist, you can put in a matte finish tile with matching grout and enjoy a smooth, clean finish that’s easy on the eye. Your paint choices and cabinet finishes can contribute to that clean look.
4. Tile Can Be Bold
Tile can also be used to make a picture, often called a mosaic. If you don’t want a mosaic, you can choose a simple field tile and add pops of color with contrasting tiles. You can also choose a very basic field tile and make it bolder by setting it at an angle and adding contrasting grout.
Remember that tile is pretty permanent. Taking it out will take tools and you may need to repair the underlying surface before you add the new tile. If you’re thinking about a mosaic, take a test run and put a picture or image on the wall where you want the mosaic. Do you find it distracting? Does it please you, or does it take away from the rest of your space? A mosaic can be quite striking, but if it’s just one visual distraction among many, the space may feel too busy.
5. The Right Tile Can Be Timeless
Go for a timeless color. If your appliances and/or sink are ivory, put up ivory tile. If your sink is stainless but your appliances are white, use a white tile. Gloss finishes tend to look more dated over time; matte finishes stand the test of time.
Adding any tile backsplash is a cost-effective way to brighten up your kitchen. It will provide a cleaner look and be easier to scrub up. Decide if you want a basic, one color combination of tile and grout, a strong contrast, or a mosaic.
