26+ Best Backsplash Materials
ID# 181001 – Product BA631613 – Modern Gray Marble Chevron Mosaic Tile
All-White Kitchen with Marble Chevron Backsplash Tiles
This contemporary kitchen is well appointed with white modern cabinets, marble backsplash and marble countertops which blend seamlessly, achieving a harmonious whole! With their stark white color, the modern kitchen cabinets anchor the space, providing a bright and spacious atmosphere. The marble chevron backsplash reaches through the ceiling and provides an elegant backdrop. The marble countertops create a continuous look with the backsplash. Eliminating the upper cabinets and using glass open shelving is a great way to enhance the space feel and maximize the impact of the backsplash tiles!
ID# 181015 – Product BA1117 – Modern Metal Mosaic Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Wood Countertops
Once inside this kitchen, you are surrounded by a wave of gray shades. To start with, the light gray cabinets provide a sleek and elegant foundation for the space. The metal mosaic kitchen backsplash tiles create a striking contrast against the cabinets, in terms of pattern and texture. Between these gray shades, the butcher block countertop draws attention and brings a balance to the cool gray shades.
Design Tip: Among all the different types of alternatives, metal tiles are one of the most durable backsplash materials.
Best Backsplash Materials
When it comes to kitchen or bathroom designs, there are lots of elements that you need to consider, including cabinets, countertops, lighting fixtures, hardware, floor tiles, and a backsplash is one of the most important of them. Even though the main aspect of the backsplash is functional, it also has an aesthetic value that ties all the elements together and elevates the overall look. From glossy glass mosaics to natural stone slabs and ceramic tiles, today’s design world offers homeowners a plethora of materials to curate a variety of looks with backsplashes. Here we have the best backsplash materials for you that will fire up your imagination. Read on to catch up with the trending looks and see the different applications and their impact to learn how to incorporate your design project!
Best Backsplash Materials for Kitchens and Bathrooms
The vision of incorporating wall tiling as part of decorative components started to enter into designers’ minds only during the second half of the 20th century. The early backsplashes were just 4-inch ceramic tiles and were not exactly appealing. After years to come, backsplashes started to get more important, occupy more space, and have more intricate designs which gave the opportunity to homeowners to personalize their spaces. And the choice of material is the crucial step that defines the characteristics of the backsplash. Even though ceramic is the first material that comes to mind when we talk about bathroom and kitchen backsplash ideas, there is a wide range of material options. Let’s scroll down and get some inspiration from the kitchen backsplash material options!
Best Seller Mosaic Tiles
ID# 181002 – Product BA1038 – Modern Long Gray Limestone Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Two-tone Kitchen Cabinets
The refined and minimalist design of this Scandinavian kitchen is packed with style and character! To start with cabinets, using two-tone cabinets is a great way to add diversity to the backdrop. Between the white and wood cabinets, the modern gray limestone backsplash adds a nice textural look and completes the neutral color scheme. The waterfall kitchen island enhances the modern aesthetic of the room while the wood floor and wicker pendant lights complement the warm appeal of the wood cabinets.
What material makes the best backsplash?
There is no single answer to this question! The ideal choice of a backsplash material depends on several factors, including your budget, lifestyle and desired aesthetic. For example, if you are looking for an affordable tile, ceramic and porcelain tiles will be the best option. If you are looking for an easier-to-clean and maintain material, glass and metal tiles, due to their non-porous and smooth skins, will be a perfect option. Characterized by a luxurious aesthetic, natural stone tiles are heat-resistant and extremely durable materials that can easily add value to your home. But these tiles come with higher price tags and they require more maintenance, due to their porous surface.
ID# 181003 – Product BA62046 – White Glass & Marble Diamond Mosaic Tile
White Full-height Backsplash with White Quartz Countertops
What stands out in this all-white transitional kitchen between the white cabinets is diamond-looking patterns! These eye-catching patterns of the modern white backsplash tiles create a sleek and elegant backdrop for the rest of the space. The glossy finish of the tiles complements the bright and airy atmosphere which is created by the white shaker cabinets, white quartz countertops and the picture framed kitchen window. At the center, the dark wood kitchen island brings depth to the space while the medium tone wood floor and the brass cabinet hardware add warmth to the atmosphere!
What is the Best Backsplash Material for Kitchens and Bathrooms?
Besides their functional aspect, backsplashes are the focal points of kitchen and bathroom designs, adding visual interest and exuding personal style. Since a backsplash is a permanent component of your design—at least for a few years, it is important to consider all different material options before your final decision. That’s why, you need to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of all types of materials, as well as the installation challenges, prices, and other key factors. To prevent unappealing aesthetics as a result of a hurried decision and get a clear idea about the best backsplash materials, read this guide and find out what is the best kitchen backsplash material options for your design.
There are five main types of materials that are commonly used for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes, including ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone, and metal.
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Made with clay and fired in kiln at a high temperature, ceramic tiles are the most popular material options for bathroom and kitchen backsplashes. Due to their wide range of color, shape, texture, and pattern options, they provide a versatile appeal that can work with any design aesthetic. Besides their visual aspects, ceramic tiles are also the most affordable option. Another great advantage of these tiles is that they are very easy to clean and maintain materials, which is a quality every homeowner will value. The cost of a ceramic tile starts under $5 per square foot, but the handmade and more detailed designs can increase in price based on the intricacy of the design.
Just like ceramics, porcelain tiles are made with clay and are fired in a kiln. The most important difference between these two materials is that porcelain tiles are made with refined clay and fired at higher temperatures which increases the durability of the tiles. Besides their durable and long-lasting surfaces, these tiles also come in a wide range of color, shape, pattern, and texture options, like ceramics. Due to the low level of maintenance required, these tiles are excellent choices as kitchen or bathroom backsplash. Porcelains are a little bit more expensive than ceramic tiles, starting at $7 per square foot.
ID# 181004 – Product BA4502 – Modern Long Light Gray Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Two-tone Kitchen Cabinets with Light Gray Porcelain Tiles
This Scandinavian kitchen prefers to capture a two-toned effect with a combination of white and wood cabinets! With their handless design, these flat panel cabinets provide a sleek and modern foundation for the space. Between them, the light gray porcelain backsplash tiles add a nice textural look and complement the neutral color scheme. The white upper cabinets and the countertops give the space a bright and airy feel while the dark gray floor tiles bring a contrasting look to the entire kitchen.
White Mosaic Tiles
ID# 181005 – Product BA4501 – Modern Beige Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Beige Vertical Tile Backsplash with White and Wood Cabinets
Another great example of how two-toned cabinets can make a big difference and visual diversity for the kitchens. In this contemporary kitchen, these cabinets which consist of white and wood colors, anchor the space. Between them, the beige porcelain tile backsplash is laid in a vertical pattern that enhances the modern aesthetic. Mirroring the perimeter cabinets, the white kitchen island enhances the fresh feel.
What is the most durable backsplash?
When it comes to durability, ceramic, porcelain, stone, and metal materials stand out for backsplashes! The glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles are incredibly resistant to scratches, heat, moisture, and chemicals which makes them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Natural stones like granite, slate or marble offer exceptional durability and resilience against scratches, heat and moisture. But, due to their porous surfaces, they require regular sealing. Metal materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or brass are also highly resistant to scratches, heat and moisture!
ID# 181006 – Product BA1105 – Colorful Glass & Porcelain Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Colorful Mosaics
Sometimes all that a kitchen needs is a single bold touch that elevates the entire room. Here, for example, the colorful mosaic tile backsplash makes this touch and transforms this otherwise white kitchen into an eye-catching design. Adorned with red and cream shades, these tiny mosaic tiles act as a piece of art. The plain appeal of the white cabinets and countertops allows the backsplash tiles to stand out even more!
ID# 181007 – Product BA4503 – Modern Long Gray Porcelain Backsplash Tile
Scandinavian Kitchen Design with Gray Cabinets and Wood Shelves
When designing a kitchen, it is better to decide on the color palette first to develop a better sense of a design theme. And if you are looking for a timeless color palette with a versatile appeal, gray color never fails you! In this Scandinavian kitchen, the gray color dominates the space through the cabinets and backsplash tiles and provides a sleek and elegant overall look. The gray porcelain tiles are laid in a vertical pattern to enhance the space height. And to emphasize the backsplash tiles, upper cabinets are replaced with wood floating shelves.
ID# 181008 – Product BA310131 – White Porcelain Arabesque Backsplash Tile
Light Gray Shaker Cabinets with White Arabesque Tile Backsplash
Among all the tile shapes like subway, square, or hexagon, arabesque tiles stand out with their unique curvy shapes. And this unique pattern can easily make a statement as a kitchen backsplash. As you can see in this transitional kitchen, the white arabesque tile backsplash creates a sleek and elegant backdrop for the light gray shaker cabinets. The gray grout emphasizes this pattern even more. The white quartz countertops seamlessly blend with the backsplash tiles while the brass cabinet hardware and the traditional runner give the space a lived-in feel.
Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass backsplashes gained their popularity in professional kitchens and since then they become one of the most popular materials for residential projects. Thanks to the wide variety of shades, forms, textures, and patterns, glass tiles are a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your home. In addition to these varieties of design options, glass tiles also come in different levels of reflectivity, including glossy, frosted, matte, and iridescent. Furthermore, glass tiles are perfect materials for colorful mosaic patterns that can easily create a focal point in your kitchen or bathroom.
If you are looking for material that is easy to maintain as well as good-looking, glass is the route to go. Like ceramics, glass tiles are stain-resistant due to their nonporous skin. Their smooth surfaces make it easier to keep clean material. You can simply wipe down the tile surfaces with soapy water and a clean cloth. Starting at $9 per square foot, glass tiles are a little more expensive than ceramics and porcelains but thanks to their benefits, this investment is definitely worth it!
ID# 181009 – Product BA8001 – Sparkled White Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for All-white Kitchens
Despite their monochromatic color palette, all-white kitchens can still look interesting but sometimes they need some small details to enhance visual interest. As you can see in this transitional kitchen, the white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops draw a sleek profile. The addition of the white glass subway tile backsplash perfectly completes this traditional aesthetic. The sparked finish and slight textures of the subway tiles make this mosaic more modern. The brass cabinet hardware is the only element that breaks the white dominance and brings much-needed warmth to the space.
ID# 181010 – Product BA8023 – Shimmery White Modern Glass Backsplash Tile
Shimmery White Glass Backsplash Tiles with White Countertops
Even though classic patterns like subway, hexagon, or herringbone are beautiful, there are lots of different forms that can give a more modern look. And this white shell glass backsplash tile is no exception! Adorned with a shimmery finish, these white glass tiles with their long and slim shapes provide a sophisticated backdrop with a luminous sheen. While the white quartz countertops and light gray base cabinets complement the fresh appearance of these tiles, the dark wood upper cabinets bring depth and dimension to the space.
What is the easiest backsplash to maintain?
Due to their non-porous skin, ceramic, porcelain, glass, and metal tiles are the easiest materials to maintain. You can easily wipe down the tile surfaces with a clean cloth and soapy warm water to maintain the beauty of your tiles.
ID# 181011 – Product BA5506 – Marble Look White Glass Chevron Mosaic Tile
White Shaker Cabinets with Gray Granite Countertops
To spice up its otherwise all-white look, this traditional kitchen employs marble look glass chevron backsplash tiles and gray granite countertops. While homeowners can enjoy the brightness and lightness brought in by white shaker-style cabinets, the addition of the backsplash and countertops make this kitchen more stylish and eye-catching! For the rest, the stainless steel appliances and the chrome cabinet hardware complement the overall look harmoniously.
ID# 181012 – Product BA8021 – Shimmery Black Glass Modern Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for White and Wood Cabinets
To create a true statement moment in your kitchen, go with a black glass backsplash! With its deep black color and vertical layout, these black glass tiles create a striking focal point between the white and wood cabinets and bring depth to the space. The white countertops and base cabinets create a bold contrast with the backsplash tiles while the dark wood upper cabinets complement the neutrality of the tiles. Even though the tiles have a black color, they play with natural light, thanks to their glossy finish, and give the space an airy feel.
ID# 181013 – Product BA5501 – Marble Look Blue Glass Hexagon Backsplash Tile
Marble Look Blue Hexagon Tile Backsplash with White Cabinets
If you want to make a bold statement with your backsplash, you will love these tiles! Adorned with a marble look, these blue glass hexagon tiles act as a piece of art and create an eye-catching backdrop. Calming the glossy blue tile backsplash are the white countertops and white shaker cabinets in this beach-style kitchen. The glass-fronted upper cabinets bring a breath of fresh air, putting homeowners’ essentials on display The brass cabinet hardware and the faucet make a cohesive final touch with a dose of sparkle.
ID# 181014 – Product BA8002 – Blue & Brown Glass Subway Backsplash Tile
Blue Cabinets with Glass Subway Backsplash Tiles and Metallic Hardware
The overall aesthetic of this beachy kitchen feels serene and relaxing, thanks to the beautiful shades of blue! The blue color surrounds the cabinet surfaces, creating a sophisticated foundation. The glass subway backsplash tiles are adorned with blue and beige shades which evoke memories of the beach. The metallic cabinet hardware and white countertops make a harmonious final touch.
Metal Tile Backsplash
Sleek and edgy, metal is another excellent material that can easily upgrade your kitchen! Stainless steel is the most popular metal type that is used for backsplashes. Other materials like brass, copper, or tin can also add different levels of shine and depth to your space. They also come in any number of intricate patterns and a variety of sheens, from brushed metal to hammered and polished. And their reflective surfaces can help keep the room bright, like the glass tiles! The biggest disadvantage of these tiles is that they are highly susceptible to scratches and other abrasive damage.
Metal can come in different forms, like mosaics of metal pieces, metal sheet and large-format panels. It may be a set of stainless steel backsplash panels behind the stove, or a metal mosaic with a hypnotic pattern, but metal backsplashes are sturdy and easy to sanitize. Noticeably, metal tiles are the most expensive compared to other materials like ceramic or glass. The average cost of metal tiles for backsplashes ranges from $13 to $30 per square foot.
ID# 181016 – Product BA62010 – Modern Glass & Metal Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Dark Brown Cabinets with White Marble Countertops
Living up to its potential to the fullest, this contemporary kitchen knows how to tie together statement elements. First, the glass and metal mosaic tile backsplash draws attention at first sight and creates an eye-catching focal point. The dark brown kitchen cabinets frame the tiles perfectly and provide a sophisticated appeal. Between the dark shades, the white marble countertops create a contrasting look that enlightens the atmosphere.
Modern Mosaic Tiles
ID# 181017 – Product BA8802 – Modern Metal Silver Backsplash Panel
Best Backsplash Materials with Modern White Cabinets
Just like the metal tiles, metal sheets or panels are also popular options for kitchen backsplashes. Due to their sleek appeal and seamless design, these panels can easily create an elegant backdrop that can match a variety of design styles. As you can see in this modern kitchen, the stainless steel backsplash panel creates a cohesive look with the white flat-panel cabinets and white quartz countertops. While the matte finish enhances the modern aesthetic, the groutless design provides easy-to-clean and maintain surfaces.
Natural Stone Tile Backsplash
Being highly sought-after, natural stone materials consist of marble, limestone, slate, travertine, granite and quartzite! With their organic warmth and timeless appeal, natural stone tiles can easily provide a character as a backsplash in kitchens and bathrooms. When choosing a natural stone backsplash, there are different variations to consider. For example, marble is one of the most popular natural stone materials that is a staple of timeless elegance while slate tiles offer an earthy touch. Each natural stone has its own characteristics and you need to consider different options before making your final decision!
Besides their allure, natural stone materials are extremely durable. However, due to their porous skin, natural stone tiles require a higher level of maintenance, including regular sealing and cleaning. Compared to other materials like ceramic, natural stone tiles come at a higher price point. But, these stone designs will definitely add value to your home and can be a huge selling point! If the maintenance of the natural stone tiles is too much for you, you can also opt for engineered stone ones such as quartz.
ID# 181018 – Product BA1080 – Rosewood & Gray Modern Marble Backsplash Tile
Natural Wood Cabinets with Modern Marble Backsplash
Even though the subway pattern is the most popular one for the marble material, this marble backsplash redefines the modern aesthetic! Adorned with a long and slim shape, these modern marble tiles are a perfect choice for modern and contemporary kitchen and bathroom designs. In this contemporary kitchen, for instance, the marble backsplash is paired with gray countertops and natural wood cabinets which perfectly complement the rosewood and gray veins of the tiles.
ID# 181019 – Product BA1092 – Ivory Beige Travertine Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Granite Countertops
If you are into the traditional approach you could go for a combination of travertine backsplash and beige granite countertop which will for sure suit your kitchen. As proof, your attention is caught by the beige travertine tiles and granite countertops that carry the refreshing flavor of luxury in this kitchen. Natural wooden cabinets are a wonderful option to give a homely appearance to this warm scheme.
ID# 181020 – Product BA1038 – Modern Long Gray Limestone Kitchen Backsplash Tile
Contemporary Kitchen with Full-height Backsplash and Stainless Steel Appliances
Open and bright, this contemporary kitchen uses a limestone backsplash that peaks behind the white cabinets. These modern gray tiles stretch from countertop to ceiling and create a seamless backdrop. The plain appeal of the white kitchen cabinets allows the backsplash tiles to stand out even more. The stainless steel appliances, brushed nickel cabinet hardware, and light gray floor tiles perfectly complement the gray shades of the tiles.
What is the best timeless kitchen backsplash?
White subway tiles stand out as a timeless backsplash! Thanks to their clean simple lines and versatility, they can easily work with any design aesthetic and color scheme. Classic subway tiles are generally a more budget friendly choice compared to the other options. Besides this classic pattern, natural stone tiles like honed granite or marble offer a timeless and elegant look!
ID# 181021 – Product BA45056 – Marble Flower Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Marble Flower Mosaic Backsplash with Quartz Countertops
If you want to bring spring into your kitchen, a floral-patterned backsplash is a route to go. And when this cheerful pattern meets with the timeless elegance of the marble material, the result is just perfect! In this transitional kitchen, the marble flower mosaic tile backsplash creates a delicate appeal as a backdrop. The white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops provide a clean and fresh frame for the backsplash tiles. The brass cabinet hardware and plumbing fixtures add much-needed warmth with a touch of sparkle.
ID# 181022 – Product BA1029 – Beige Travertine & Glass Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Traditional Kitchens
Featuring an elegant and timeless look, this traditional kitchen features a travertine tile backsplash that is adorned with tiny glass chips. Taken up to the ceiling, it peeks out behind the wood flooring shelf. The white upper cabinets accentuate the tiles perfectly while the gray base cabinets bring depth to the space. The white farmhouse sink draws attention through the backsplash tiles.
ID# 181023 – Product BA1063 – Rusty Brown & Gray Slate Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Dark Blue Cabinets with Wood Range Hood and Slate Tiles
Give a warm welcome to this kitchen that features a combination of vibrant colors and textures! A stunning interplay of dark shades, the dark blue cabinets serve as a timeless and elegant foundation. The slate mosaic tile backsplash and the wooden range hood both provide rustic accents to the cabinets’ clean and straight lines and inject a little warmth into this part of the space. The brass cabinet hardware plays perfectly with this warm feel but, the white quartz countertops bring in light to the space.
Buying Considerations for Best Backsplash Materials
Before buying a backsplash tile, it is better to know all the different types of materials and their benefits. There are a few key factors that you need to consider, including maintenance, durability, functionality, ease of installation, and of course, cost.
Maintenance:
Once you install your tiles, you need to maintain their first-day beauty. Kitchens are inherently prone to splashes, splatters, and spills and the backsplash area is the most vulnerable space against them. That’s why the ease of cleaning and maintaining your backsplash material is crucial. Non-porous materials like glass, ceramic, porcelain, or metal are generally easiest to clean materials. You can simply wipe down the tile surfaces with a clean cloth and soapy warm water. Porous materials like natural stone tiles require a regular sealing routine to prevent staining and moisture which means they require a little more maintenance.
Durability:
The main aspect of a backsplash is to protect the walls against heat, moisture, and everyday wear and tear. That’s why backsplash tiles need to be durable and it is important to Choose a material that can withstand the potential challenges of your cooking style. You can benefit from the durability of porcelain, metal, or stone tiles for high-traffic areas like behind the stove and sink. For the less exposed areas, you can use other materials like wood or wallpaper.
Practicality:
Even though the backsplash is the focal point of your kitchen that provides visual interest, a more important factor to consider is practicality! Think about your lifestyle and cooking habits when choosing a backsplash material. If you are a professional cook who uses the kitchen frequently, then it is better to choose non porous materials like ceramic, porcelain, glass or metal. A scratch and impact resistant option like porcelain or metal might be preferable if you have young children!
Easy Installation:
If you are a DIY expert and want to install your backsplash tile on your own, then you need to consider the ease of installation! Similar to the shower, most backsplash materials need to secure the wall with grout and the installation process also consists of cutting the tiles. Ceramic, porcelain or glass tiles can be cut with a simple tile cutter but metal and stone tiles require a wet saw. If you don’t want to cut the tiles, peel-and-stick tiles will be the best option. The large format slabs or mosaics with a mesh backing also provide an easy installation process. However, intricate mosaics or complex layouts might be best left to professional installers to ensure a flawless and long-lasting result!
Cost:
The backsplash materials come in a wide range of price points depending on the quality of the tiles, the size of the area, or the complexity of the patterns. When it comes to materials, ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most affordable options while glass, metal, or natural stone tiles come in higher price tags. For a general idea, you can expect to pay about $600 to $1,300 to install a kitchen backsplash but as we mentioned, these prices may vary a several factors.
ID# 181024 – Product BA1081 – Modern Long Dark Gray Slate Backsplash Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Monochrome Kitchens
This monochromatic kitchen incorporates a sophisticated appeal with the black slate tile backsplash. Stacked horizontally, this black backsplash creates a striking focal point between the white and gray kitchen cabinets. While the white uppers and countertops provide a bright and spacious atmosphere, the gray base cabinets soften the striking black-and-white contrast. For a final touch, the polished brass cabinet hardware adds a dose of sparkle.
Natural Stone Mosaic Tiles
ID# 181025 – Product BA62047 – Blass & Marble Mosaic Backsplash Tile
Modern White Kitchen with Marble Look Quartz Countertops
This light-filled modern kitchen embraces the idea of a blank canvas created with white cabinets and countertops. Between them, the black and white mosaic tile backsplash creates a focal point without breaking the airy atmosphere. The waterfall edges of the kitchen island enhance the modern aesthetic while the wood floor provides a warm base for this white-dominant design.
What is the trend in kitchen backsplash in 2024?
While the classic subway tiles still maintain their popularity, there are lots of different backsplash designs that stand out in 2024! Moving beyond smooth surfaces, textured and patterned tiles are gaining traction. For a bolder design statement, you can always try the mix-and-match method and play with different materials, textures, colors and finishes. While neutrals remain popular, bolder colors like emerald green, navy blue or mustard yellow dominate the trend lists.
ID# 181026 – Product BA5504 – Marble Look White Glass Picket Mosaic Tile
Best Backsplash Materials for Gray and White Cabinets
Geometric tiles can easily create a statement look right away, even if they come in white shades. In this transitional kitchen, for example, the white glass backsplash tiles are adorned with a picket shape that creates a modern appeal. The black veins of the tiles are the reminiscence of the marble which adds a dose of opulence. Framing the backsplash, the gray and white shaker cabinets draw a sleek profile.
