Top 10+ Q&A on a modern kitchen backsplash... Find out and release your happiness
As a Certified Interior Designer, I have a lot of knowledge based on my education & experience. The month of May is devoted to backsplashes. There are so many questions I get asked that I decided to do a two-part Q&A about backsplashes. Also, the timing is perfect because May starts with graduation parties: high school and college. It’s also the easiest way to spruce up your kitchen. Here is my professional advice on backsplashes… your two-part series… Let’s Begin…
COMMON QUESTIONS
How much backsplash do I need?
This is easy to figure out. You take the total length of the backsplash and multiple it by your height. Watch this short video for a further explanation.
Can backsplash be removed?
Yes, your backsplash can be removed. You will be removing the tile, backer board, and drywall. The studs (framing) will be exposed. You will then need to rehang your drywall, backer board, and your new tile. This is a DIY process.
When does backsplash get installed? or When should backsplash be installed? or When to install backsplash?
Backsplash gets installed after the countertops. You will need your countertops installed before your tile installer or you install the tile backsplash. If you are thinking about installing a backsplash that matches your countertop you will need to have your countertop installed before they template/measure your backsplash.
When to caulk backsplash?
You will caulk your backsplash after it’s installed. You will be caulking the slight gap between the countertop & backsplash. The reason you caulk this area is due to movement. Your countertop will shift and if you grout this area you will need to regrout it. By caulking this area, you will not have to regrout it. Remember you will need a clear caulk that is for moisture areas.
Why is backsplash so expensive?
The expense is based on the tile, tile pattern, and installation. If you choose a budget friendly tile and DIY you will be saving a lot of money. If you choose to hire a professional tile installer, remember the herringbone pattern that we all love and adore is labor intensive. Therefore, your installation price will be the biggest expense. Below are some options for the herringbone pattern….
Why do I need a backsplash?
The reason the backsplash is used a lot in the kitchen & bathrooms is to protect your walls. It’s a lot easier to clean cooking messes and to wipe down your walls when a tile is installed vs removing your paint due to the constant scrubbing. Remember it’s a personal choice and you have permission to like what you like and do what you want in your home.
Where to end my backsplash? or Where do I end my backsplash on an open wall?
There are two ways to end your backsplash…
a wall-to-wall application
at the end of your countertop on an open wall.
How do I end my backsplash?
You can end your backsplash by using tile pieces or a metal trim piece. I prefer the metal trim piece because it’s a cleaner look for the modern/transitional backsplashes.
Who sells kitchen backsplashes? or Who sells tile backsplashes?
Your box stores and independent tile stores will sell you backsplashes. The box stores will sell to consumers, builders, and contractors whereas some of the independent tile stores might only sell to the professionals. You might want to call and verify this information before you fall in love with a tile. The independent tile stores I prefer working with are Ceramic Tileworks, Kate-Lo Tile & Stone, The Tile Shop, & Kohler Signature Store by First Supply.
Who installs tile backsplashes?
It depends on the builder or contractor you are working with. If you are just thinking about adding a backsplash to your current kitchen. It might be something you can do. A great resource for this is YouTube. I am always figuring out if I or my husband can take on this task. Sometimes it’s easier to get the professional. If you are wanting a professional. The independent tile stores will have great resources for independent tile installers.
Which kitchen backsplash is easy to clean?
The larger and smoother the tile is, the easier it will be to clean. Just think about it. You will have less grout lines (which are rough) and larger surface to clean. This is also a modern look. If you don’t believe me, just look at this video when I visited Costa Rica. They used the same tile for the countertop as the backsplash.
OK… Hopefully, I answered some of your more common questions. Remember by collaborating with a Certified Interior Designer, you will have a calm and stress-free experience when it comes to your backsplash needs. Next week’s blog will be about backsplash décor. If you already started this process and are just overwhelmed, please, give me a call. I am here to make your dream a reality without the stress.
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