Backsplashes used to only be 4 inches high behind the sink and/or stove. There were originally used to help protect the areas from moisture and grease. As time went on, backsplashes have become much more in the kitchen. Designers have gotten very creative in the back splash area. Some of the items used for backsplashes are concrete, tile, natural stone, metals, glass, mosaics, and even ceramics. They can be used make interesting designs, personalised touches, and something that can suit your personality.
Natural stone
There are lots of natural stone types to choose from. The nice thing about natural stone is that you can match your backsplash to your counter tops. Different types of natural stone are granite, marble, and slate to name a few.
Pros:
• Fits with most kitchen style.
• Tough and very durable.
• A variety of prices that can fit into most budgets.
Cons:
• Need to be sealed regularly to help protect against stains from grease, food, and water.
• Stone tiles tend to trap dirt and grime.
Pebble tiles
It is considered a modern version of stone tiles. This choice has a very rustic feel to it and also provides a textured, three-dimensional effect.
Pros:
• Affordable.
• Easy to install. This could be a large draw for the do-it-yourself at home crowd.
Cons:
• Difficult to clean.
• Installing it yourself, the grouting and cleaning can become very tedious.
Stainless Steel
Using stainless steel can give your kitchen a very distinctive feel and it is also very durable. Stainless steel is also very easy to clean, and if the backsplash is one solid piece, there will not be any cracks or grout. Areas that tend to collect grease, dirt, and food are seams and grout. Stainless steel can be installed as tiles if the one solid piece is not something that you want.
Pros:
• It can make the kitchen appear larger by reflecting light, it is very durable, stain-resistant, and also resistant to corrosion.
Cons:
• It can dent and scratch easily.
• Fingerprints show plainly on stainless steel.
• Food and grease also show up clearly which means that stainless steel requires a lot of cleaning.
• Pretty expensive backsplash option to purchase.
Chalkboard Backsplash.
This choice can give your kitchen a fun, homey, casual feel.
Pros:
• It is extremely practical as well as affordable.
• Easy to install.
• What a great way to post notes, appointments, or let the artist in the family go crazy!
Cons:
• Chalk dust can be a problem for cleaning and anyone in the family who may be dealing with asthma, allergies, or breathing issues.
• Not be a good fit for all kitchen styles.
Glass
It is the last option and can offer some great options. There are solid glass panels, subway tiles, and mosaic patterns.
Pros:
• Similar to stainless steel in how it can make a room larger by reflecting light.
• Most hygienic option for backsplashes.
Stain resistant and mildew resistant, which is one of the pluses of this option.
• Reflects the light to make the kitchen feel bigger and be brighter.
Cons:
• Difficult to install and they can be difficult to repair if cracked or scratched.
