How to Match Your Backsplash to Your Countertops

If you want to make something in your kitchen design pop, consider experimenting with your backsplash. There are almost endless patterns and materials to choose from, and different styles can alter the look and feel of your kitchen. 

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to have fun with this part of your kitchen without jumping into a fad you’ll regret later on. 

First, we’ll talk about a few common backsplash materials, including how much they cost, the maintenance they need, and anything else you need to know before you make a purchase. We’ll also give you some tips on how you can balance quirkiness and timelessness so that you love your backsplash for years down the line. 

Natural Stone vs. Tile Backsplash

Two of the most common backsplash materials are natural stone and tile. They both have benefits and drawbacks in terms of price, style, and maintenance. There are also a few other types of less common (but beautiful!) backsplash materials that we’ll talk about below. 

Ceramic Tile Backsplash

Ceramic tile is a great option for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance backsplash. This material is usually sealed so it doesn't need to be re-sealed over time and can easily be wiped clean. It comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, so you won’t have any trouble choosing a design that matches the rest of your new kitchen. 

Natural Stone Backsplash

If you’re set on the look of natural stone for your backsplash, keep in mind that natural stone tiles are usually more matte and porous than ceramic tiles. This means they need to be regularly re-sealed and can get stained or damaged if you’re not careful (especially behind a stovetop). You’ll also need to steer clear of acidic cleaners when cleaning your natural stone. Stick to soap and water or natural cleaning alternatives. 

If you’re planning to use natural stone for your backsplash, granite or quartz are good choices. These types of stone are less porous and sturdier overall than many alternatives, so they’ll last longer and require less maintenance. 

All stone options come in natural shades and tones to suit any style. Quartz, the most popular natural stone variety right now, comes in virtually any colour since it’s engineered stone. 

Other Types of Backsplash

There are other types of backsplash materials that sometimes crop up in kitchens, including glass tile, wood, subway tile, wallpaper, and more. If you’re interested in one of these types of backsplash, make sure to consult with your contractor to learn about care and maintenance. Uncommon materials are eye-catching, but they may require more upkeep than traditional choices. 

How to Select Your Backsplash

Once you’ve decided on a material for your backsplash, how do you select a pattern? You’ll want to make sure you have bigger-ticket items like your countertop, cabinets, and appliances picked out first. These have more visual weight within your kitchen and will affect the look of it more than your backsplash. You’ll want to choose a backsplash that complements these items, instead of starting with your backsplash and building around it. 

When it’s time to choose your backsplash, start by looking at magazines, websites, or social media accounts for inspiration. Save a few images that stand out to you and show them to your contractor so they can guide you toward designs you might like. 

Focus on colours and tones while you’re looking at your options. Try to pick out a colour in your countertop that you like (especially if you have a natural stone countertop like granite or quartz) and look for a backsplash that has that same colour. They don’t have to match exactly, but maintaining a bit of continuity between the two items will help visually pull together your kitchen. 

Having a hard time choosing? Buy a small sample of your options and set them up on your counter to look at for a few days or weeks. You'll probably fall in (or out) of love with one of your options by then. 

Balancing Trends and Timelessness

There are several types of unique backsplashes out there, and trends emerge and fade over time. Over the years, lots of different backsplash materials have come into fashion — painted mosaic tiles, mirrors, glass tiles, subway tiles, solid marble, etc. 

Balancing new and modern trends with timeless design can be challenging. You want to make sure you still love your kitchen in five to ten years. Take some time to think about your backsplash before you buy it in bulk (like we suggested above). Purchase samples and set them up in your kitchen, hold them up to your cabinets and countertops and see how the colours interact. 

Reach out to Us for Help with Your Renovation

No matter where you’re at in your kitchen renovation (even if you’re not ready for backsplash), feel free to schedule a free, no-obligation design appointment at our showroom in Cold Lake (just outside of Edmonton). We’re happy to help you choose any part of your new kitchen, big or small.