Inexpensive Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
Backsplashes Big on Style and Low on Price
There are countless ways to accomplish a kitchen backsplash design. Making the most of the materials involved and keeping the design simple can help ensure that whatever the size of the budget involved, the results can be big.
Use Mosaics and Sheet Goods as Accents
Many mosaics, defined as any tile 2” or smaller, will come on a sheet. These sheets can be netted on the back, or with paper on the front and are fairly simple to cut up. Rather than purchasing a ready made border, with costs starting in the $20-$30 per linear foot range, use pre-made sheets of mosaic tile. A sheet of mosaic may cost approximately $30, but if this sheet is cut into 2” wide strips, the cost per linear foot of this border becomes only $5.
Likewise, a sheet cut into 2x2” squares will yield 36 squares per sheet, making the cost of each accent less than $1 a piece.
Placing a row of mosaic through a larger field of tile will add visual appeal without racking up enormous costs. Scattering 2” accent tiles through a larger field has the same result.
Use Subway Tile Throughout
Subway tile, or a rectangular shaped tile measuring 3”x6” can be fairly inexpensive, particularly when using a machine made tile.
While most subway tile is laid in a running bond, or offset pattern, it can be laid in a multitude of ways to enhance the design. For a modern kitchen, it can be stacked, either horizontally or vertically. For more traditional spaces, it can be laid in the traditional running bond along the counters, but put into a herringbone pattern behind the stove top for more visual appeal.
Small Backsplashes Score Big with Odd Lots
Most backsplashes only need 30 square feet or less to complete the job. Consider asking at tile showrooms if they have any odd lot or closeout material. A returned special order may offer a unique material at a low price.
If using odd lot material, be sure to purchase a box or two extra. It will cost more money in the end of the material runs short on the job, or if a repair is needed to be made in the future. It always helps to have extra material on hand and will save in the long run, so try not to think too much of the cost up front.
Keep the Cutting to a Minimum
Diagonal tiles can look more appealing than straight set tiles, however they come at a cost. Up to 20% more material is needed for the cuts involved, and frequently an installer will charge extra as well.
If an entire kitchen of plain straight set tile seems unappealing, try limiting the diagonal tiles to behind the stove top. This will help draw the eye while keeping the costs down.
Remember that there is also no reason why a kitchen needs a backsplash right away. If an expensive tile is what is truly desired, but the current budget does not allow it, it’s alright to wait a while before installing the backsplash. Any food spatters or paint discolorations will be covered up by the tile that will eventually be installed, so don’t allow high prices to dictate the style of the design. Simply wait until desired material is in a more affordable reach.
An Inexpensive Backsplash
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