People speak about backsplashes and wanting to have one in their kitchen, but not everyone knows what one is. If you look up backsplash in a dictionary, it is a panel that protects the wall from food and debris while cooking. While that was the initial purpose of the backsplash, today, it is so much more than that. It can be used as a statement piece, an accent piece, or a way to bring the cabinetry and countertops together. What do you need to consider before choosing one for your kitchen?
Size
There are no set dimensions for how large or small a backsplash should be. It is individualized to the area and the personal preference of the homeowner. So you can look at the area you have to work with and consider how messy of a cook you are, and what other purpose the backsplash has for you. A statement backsplash would be larger than one merely used to protect the wall. It would be large enough to show off the color, pattern or material you choose to use. A backsplash that is used to protect the wall might be more conservative in size and color.
Material/Pattern
The material and pattern on the backsplash should coordinate with the rest of the kitchen. If the kitchen is set up to look vintage and rustic, you would not put that with a shiny, modern looking backsplash. The backsplash material would be stain resistant and easy to clean as well due to the proximity to the cooking area. Most of the backsplashes that are seen are made of tile. There can be a border made with the tile, contrasting colors, or a mixture of colors throughout making a pattern. The choice is up to your personal preference. You can sketch out the tiles to get an idea of how it will all come together, so there are no surprises when you begin laying the tile. Sketching out the pattern will let you know how many tiles you need and if you need to cut any to adhere to the pattern you chose.
Is It A Necessity?
Having a backsplash in your kitchen is a personal preference. Not every kitchen will have one. After considering your cooking style and its purpose, you can come to determine whether you need/want one for your kitchen. Friends and family might offer their opinion regarding whether your kitchen should have one, but the ultimate choice is up to you.
