How to choose the right kitchen backsplash?
We share with you our best tips for choosing THE right kitchen backsplash. You should know that our eye is always drawn to our backsplash. That’s why it’s a crucial element in your room. Stéphanie Bouchard, our head designer at La Tuilerie, explains that “it’s a binding element of the kitchen. However, since we want everything to be in harmony (cabinets, flooring, countertops, faucets, and backsplash), we play with the backsplash! Either we emphasize the backsplash, or it forms a link between all the elements of the décor.” Here are our 5 tips to help you make your decision!
1- Don’t rush!
The kitchen backsplash is often chosen near the end of the work. You’ve already had several decisions to make, and you’ve had to deal with several unforeseen events. In short, you can’t wait to move forward and get it over with.
And yet, Stéphanie Bouchard, our head designer, recommends “taking the time to choose the right kitchen backsplash. You’re going to see it every day, so it’s important that you like it.” So, take a deep breath in, and just breathe!
2- Bring a bit of your kitchen with you while you shop
You’ll be ready to shop for your backsplash tiles once you’ve chosen your countertops and your kitchen cabinets. Before you go shopping for your tiles, consider taking your cabinet door and a sample of your countertop with you. The goal is to create a harmony between these three elements so that you can create a beautiful décor in your kitchen. You can also prepare inspirations or moodboards. These elements will allow you to make the right choice. We also recommend keeping the same style throughout all the rooms in your interior.
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3- Determine whether you want matte or glossy tiles
This is a question that can help you make your decision. This aspect will change the style of your backsplash and reflect the light differently according to the finish. Stéphanie (head designer at La Tuilerie) explains that “the shine of the glossy tile will bring a lot of light, so it’s important to evaluate the light (whether it’s natural or artificial) before deciding on a glossy or matte backsplash.”
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Glossy tiles on the right picture and matte tiles on the left one.
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Glossy tiles on picture above and matte tiles on the picture below.
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When it comes to maintenance, the tile’s finish also makes a difference. Glossy tiles make wiping and cleaning easier, while matte or textured tiles will tend to retain dirt more. This is why we apply 3 coats of sealant to porous or natural stone tiles. Stéphanie Bouchard recommends “reapplying the sealant every 3 years, since it helps protect the natural stone.” We also recommend using a specific cleaner to make this protection last.
You will then have to choose which type of tiles you want: patterned, mosaics, coloured, classic, etc.
4- Don’t forget about the grout!
“Just by playing with the grout, you can change the look of the tile!” Stéphanie informs us. The grout is a key element:
- Contrasting colour: It accentuates the shape of the tile.
- Similar colour to the tile: It lets the tile take centre stage.
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You also need to think about maintenance. For a kitchen backsplash, grease often causes maintenance concerns. A light-coloured grout will tend to get dirtier than a dark grout. You should know that there are high-quality grouts to make maintenance easier. If you opt for a light grout, consider adding an anti-stain additive (with or without sand) to the grout or using a stain-resistant grout.
To learn more about grout, we’ve written a full article on the subject.
5- Conduct tests with samples
Once you’ve done your shopping, take some samples home with you. This will allow you to see the tile in your environment and—especially—in the light of your room. The colour of the backsplash may vary according to the sunshine as well as the time of day. Once again, take the time to make sure that the tile appeals to you and that it fits in well with the other elements of your kitchen (countertops, cabinets, faucets, etc.).
You’re all set! Don’t hesitate to ask a professional for advice on creating your backsplash. Our experts are there to guide you!