You’ve picked your cabinets, finalized your counters, and now you’re down to the finishing touches, but choosing a backsplash feels harder than expected. With hundreds of tile styles, colors, and layouts to choose from, it’s easy to get stuck wondering what actually works in your space and what just looks trendy online.
At Custom Built, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Greater Lansing and Northern Michigan make smart design choices that fit their style, budget, and everyday life. When it comes to backsplashes, we’ve seen how the right one can elevate a kitchen, adding just the right amount of color, texture, and personality without overpowering the space.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the seven key factors that matter so you can confidently pick a backsplash that looks great and lasts:
- Start with Function
- Match Your Style
- Choose the Right Material
- Don’t Forget the Grout
- Think About Pattern and Layout
- Avoid Common Mistakes
- Talk to a Designer
1. Start with Function
Before you dive into color or pattern, think about what your backsplash needs to do. At its core, a backsplash is a protective barrier, keeping grease, splashes, and stains off your walls. But it also offers a chance to add a touch of personality.
You don’t need to cover every wall with tile. In fact, most homes don’t. Instead, strategic tile placement, especially behind ranges and sinks, adds just the right amount of interest and practicality.
Want to introduce a pop of color without going bold on cabinets or countertops? The backsplash is the perfect spot.
Many homeowners keep their main kitchen colors neutral, and if looking to brighten their space, choose blues, greens, or even deep reds in their backsplash.
2. Match Your Style
Your kitchen should reflect your taste. Whether you're drawn to clean, modern lines or something more classic and textured, there's a backsplash that fits.
Tiles come in a wide variety of textures, including smooth, rough, glossy, and matte. You’ll even find wavy or 3D tiles with raised surfaces that can add depth and dimension.
In a mid-century modern home, for example, we often recommend pairing geometric patterns with subtle textures to complement the architecture of the space.
This is your chance to explore shape, layout, and movement. Just make sure your selection complements the rest of your kitchen, rather than competing with it.
3. Choose the Right Material
PC: DecorPad
Not all tile is created equal. When selecting your backsplash material, it’s essential to consider factors like maintenance, durability, and cost:
Natural Stone Backsplashes
If you're going for a bold, timeless look, natural stone offers unmatched beauty. From marble to granite, each piece brings organic character and a one-of-a-kind feel to your kitchen.
Pros
- Visually striking with unique veining and natural variation
- Adds timeless elegance and a high-end feel to the kitchen
- Each piece is one-of-a-kind, creating a natural focal point
Cons
- More expensive than porcelain or ceramic
- Color and pattern variation can make it harder to match across larger areas
- Sensitive to acids and oils, meaning it requires more care in active kitchens
Maintenance
- Needs regular sealing to protect against stains and moisture
- Requires gentle, non-acidic cleaners
- High-use areas may require more frequent upkeep
Durability
- Very durable when maintained properly
- Can scratch, etch, or stain if neglected
- Best for homeowners willing to invest in care for long-term beauty
Porcelain and Ceramic Tile Backsplashes
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are affordable, stylish, and incredibly easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. They work well in almost any kitchen design.
Pros
- Huge variety of colors, sizes, patterns, and finishes
- Easy to match across a large backsplash
- Very cost-effective and readily available
Cons
- Grout lines can collect dirt if not maintained
- Some patterned tiles may go out of style faster
- Lacks the natural depth and uniqueness of stone
Maintenance
- Low-maintenance: Just wipe clean with common household cleaners
- No sealing required for most ceramic or porcelain tiles
- Occasional grout cleaning or sealing keeps it fresh
Durability
- Extremely durable and resistant to stains, heat, and water
- Ideal for high-traffic kitchens or busy households
- Keeps its look for years with minimal effort
Slab Backsplashes
For a sleek, modern kitchen with minimal visual clutter, slab backsplashes (often made of quartz or granite) offer seamless elegance with very little maintenance.
Pros
- Clean, continuous look, as there are no grout lines to break up the design
- Matches countertops for a cohesive, high-end aesthetic
- Easy to clean with a single wipe
Cons
- More expensive due to size and fabrication requirements
- Requires professional installation
- Less flexibility in changing the design later
Maintenance
- Quartz slabs need little to no maintenance
- Natural stone slabs may require sealing
- No grout means fewer areas for dirt or grease to collect
Durability
- Highly durable, especially when using quartz
- Stands up to heat and daily kitchen messes
- A long-lasting option that looks sharp
Shiplap Backsplashes
Shiplap adds a rustic, textured element that works well in farmhouse, coastal, or cottage-style kitchens. It's a great way to bring charm and warmth to a smaller space.
Pros
- Adds texture and personality to neutral kitchens
- It can be painted in any color to match your style
- A great alternative to tile in low-splash areas
Cons
- Not naturally resistant to heat or moisture
- Requires sealing for use near water or food prep areas
- Not ideal behind cooktops unless protected
Maintenance
- Needs a durable paint or sealant to prevent stains or warping
- Clean with mild soap and water; avoid soaking the wood
- More upkeep is required in active kitchens
Durability
- Works best in areas without heavy splashes or direct heat
- Sealed and maintained shiplap can last for years
- A softer material choice that is best used for accent or character walls
The best material for your kitchen is one that matches your day-to-day life. If you cook often or have young kids at home, easy-to-clean options will save you time and stress.
4. Don’t Forget the Grout
Grout color may seem like a minor detail, but it plays a significant role in determining how your backsplash looks and functions:
- For subway tile, we often match the grout to the tile to maintain a seamless look.
- For a modern look, we might pair white tile with gray or black grout to create a clean contrast in the space.
- Larger tiles, like 12x24s, naturally result in less grout, making cleanup easier.
In areas like behind the range, we often run the quartz countertop material up the wall instead of using tile. This provides a grout-free surface that’s both easier to clean and visually cohesive.
Where grout is used near greasy areas, stick to layouts that minimize the amount of it. The less scrubbing, the better.
5. Think About Pattern and Layout
Tile layout matters just as much as the type of tile you choose. A simple change in pattern can completely change the vibe of your kitchen:
- Large tiles (like 12x24) are easier to lay and clean. You usually don’t have to stagger them as much.
- Smaller tiles (like 2x10 or subway) offer more layout flexibility. You can go vertical, horizontal, or staggered to add visual movement.
Staggered horizontal tiles are popular because they create a timeless look while adding just the right amount of character.
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
The biggest backsplash mistakes we see often stem from issues with scale and maintenance:
- Avoid tiny mosaic tiles. They might look fun, but they come with a lot of grout lines, making them harder to clean.
- Stick with neutral tones for the larger elements in your kitchen (like cabinets or countertops). Then have fun with the backsplash. It's a great place to show off personality without overwhelming the space.
- Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. A well-placed splash of color or bold pattern can completely transform the look of your kitchen.
7. Talk to a Designer
Picking the perfect backsplash may seem like a minor decision, but it can have a significant impact. Working with a professional helps you avoid common pitfalls and achieve the best results, especially when choosing materials or patterns you haven’t worked with before.
If you’re installing it yourself, getting advice from a designer or contractor beforehand can save you time, money, and a few headaches. It’s all about knowing what works in your specific space.
At Custom Built, we walk alongside our clients from design to installation, ensuring every kitchen design detail, even the backsplash, brings out the best in their kitchen.
Next Steps to Updating Your Kitchen Backsplash
Choosing the right backsplash is about more than just picking a pretty tile. It’s about function, material, layout, and how it complements the rest of your kitchen.
You’ve learned how to match your style, select the right materials, and avoid common mistakes so your backsplash works hard and looks great.
At Custom Built, we guide homeowners through every design detail, including backsplash choices that elevate your kitchen without overwhelming it.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Schedule a consultation with our team or explore our kitchen remodeling portfolio for inspiration.
Now that you know more about how to pick the perfect backsplash for your kitchen, let’s explore how to improve your kitchen remodeling experience, how much your project will cost, and how long it’ll take to finish with Custom Built:
- 10 Ways to Improve Your Kitchen Remodeling Experience - Discover effective strategies to make your kitchen renovation a more satisfying journey.
- How Much Does a Luxury Kitchen Remodel Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - Explore cost estimates, a budget breakdown, and factors that affect the cost of your luxury kitchen remodel.
- How Long Does a Luxury Kitchen Remodel Take to Get Finished with Custom Built? - A high-level overview of how long your project will take to complete during Custom Built’s Proven Process.
