The benefits of a tiled backsplash don’t stop there. Installing a kitchen or bathroom backsplash can make a real impact on the look and feel of your home, here are several things to consider when shopping for a tile backsplash.

Nothing adds a stylish and personal touch like installing a backsplash with unique tile that speaks to you and your personality. There are endless tile choices, let your imagination and creativity be your guide and you can have something truly unique to you and your home.

If you love to cook but hate to clean, be careful which tiles you choose for your kitchen backsplash. Not all tiles are great at reducing maintenance and certain tile choices could actually add to your maintenance workload and schedule instead of reducing it.

For example, while we love the look of natural stone, stone and marble are naturally porous materials, so they are susceptible to staining and require scheduled maintenance with specialty cleaners and sealers. Small tiles may also end up needing more maintenance because they will have more grout joints and that’s where grease and dirt can build up.

If easy maintenance is a high priority for you, we recommend ceramic, porcelain glass or even metal tile. Since these materials are non-porous, stains will not be able to penetrate the surface of the tile like they would with natural stone. We also recommend an upgraded grout for backsplashes, one that has stain-resistant technology built-in. One last thing to consider if you are concerned with less maintenance, the larger the tile the less grout joints and therefore the less maintenance will be needed over time.

When investing in your most valuable asset, your home, it’s crucial to consider the long-term impact of your decisions. If you plan to reside in your home for many years, rushing into choices like tile selection or hiring a tile contractor could lead to frequent remodeling. Imagine regretting a hastily chosen tile on sale, discovering later it was discounted for a reason or simply not to your liking. You’d either be stuck with it or facing additional expenses to replace it with something more satisfying.

Conversely, if your home is a temporary residence with plans to sell in a few years, prioritize tile choices that appeal to a broad audience rather than personal taste. Opt for neutral colors and timeless designs like subway tiles, which have enduring popularity and broad appeal.

When selecting a tile contractor for your backsplash installation, resist the urge to rush your decision or base it solely on price. Despite what HGTV may depict, installing a kitchen backsplash involves careful planning and craftsmanship, not just a quick afternoon task. What you see on TV is Hollywood magic; real-world quality work requires detailed attention to ensure longevity.

Ask potential contractors about their methods and materials: Which grout will they use and why? Will they use silicone caulking or grout for joints between the wall and countertop? How will they protect cabinets and countertops during removal of an old backsplash? What measures will they take to minimize dust throughout your home? These questions are vital to ensuring you receive satisfactory answers and the quality workmanship your home deserves.