You can add a whole new look to your kitchen with very little effort by using some of the backsplash options available today. There is a wonderful choice of materials being used to create stunning effects and at the same time offer a really functional upgrade to any kitchen. Backsplash options  provide an economical way of adding a touch of pizzazz and introduce a great atmosphere to the kitchen with hardly any work at all.

Kitchen Backsplashes are basically vertical extensions to kitchen countertops. They are very easy to wipe off when water, oil or other greasy things splatter on them.  They also prevent these liquids from seeping behind the cabinets and add to the overall décor of the kitchen with many beautiful and stylish finishes available in the choices for backsplash options.

Coming to your kitchen Backsplash Options, the choices are many and include ceramic or porcelain tiles, glass tiles, metal tiles or natural stone and we’ll take a detailed look at each of these now:

Ceramic Tiles:  Available in a variety of colors, textures and shapes and also sizes, ceramic tiles are more versatile when it comes to Backsplash Options.  It would be worthwhile to note that matching these tiles to those of the flooring can add to the aesthetic beauty of your kitchen to a great extent.

Custom painted tiles can also be considered here.  Some advantages include their durability, they are affordable, easy to clean and come in various colors and patterns. Maintenance is easy too because they are non-porous and can be replaced easily.  On the negative side, they are not as smooth as glass, and can contain too many joints or grouts where dirt tends to collect and they can also crack if too much force is applied to them.

Metal Tiles: Metal Tiles are another Backsplash Option that includes brass, pewter, copper, tin or aluminum.  Here again, brass and copper can add a glow to your kitchen while antique embossed tin can also be equally appealing. These are non porous and water proof, are durable too and generally, metals have a way of enhancing your area and making your kitchen look larger.  On the down side, they require constant and regular cleaning up, are prone to scratches and dents and can also be noisy.

Stainless Steel: Next in Backsplash Options comes Stainless Steel which are popular in restaurants, and have also made their mark in home kitchens and because they blend well with the other appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators etc, they are an ideal choice.  Some features include durability, heat-resistant, not easy to crack, non-porous, water-proof and are flexible enough to be fitted into any space, easy to install, no joints or grouts to accumulate dirt and come in many varieties. On the cons side, they can be noisy and can show grease or fingerprints easily and require constant and regular cleaning up.

Glass Tiles:  Backsplash Options also consist of Glass Blocks that are part of an exterior wall and allow for natural light to filter in, are easy to clean, non-porous which prevents growth of fungus or mold, stain resistant and available in many colors.  Conversely, they are difficult to install, can be quite expensive and can break under high force applications.

You could also opt for glass tiles, granite, marble, or engineered stone or even slate, mirror and it is all a question of how much you are willing to spend, your kitchen décor and space availability. It is wise to remember that quality should not be comprised for price when considering backsplash options and paying a little extra for long term convenience both in terms of maintenance and for the décor of your kitchen is worth the effort!

If you are the handy type – this video will give you some valuable tips in DIY!