Kitchen Tile and Backsplash Options

The kitchen is the hub of the home, where people cook, eat and entertain. It’s also a space that takes a beating, and it’s not uncommon for floors, walls and backsplashes to get dirty quickly. Fortunately, there are many durable and decorative tile options to help you refresh your cooking area.

Flooring

Kitchen tile is available in a wide range of colors, styles and sizes. It’s tough enough to withstand the daily wear and tear of active families and it’s easy to clean. You can choose from a wide variety of textures, and tiles can even mimic the look of wood or stone.

There are many options for tiling your kitchen floor, including porcelain, ceramic and vinyl. Ceramic is the most common, as it’s budget-friendly and comes in a range of colors and finishes. It’s a good choice for kitchens, as it can stand up to moisture and is a good thermal conductor that helps the floor warm up or cool down quickly. Vinyl is another affordable option that comes in a variety of colors, patterns and styles to complement your decor.

Backsplash

A backsplash can take your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s a relatively low-cost way to upgrade your cooking area and it offers countless design possibilities. You can opt for a traditional look with subway tiles and white grout or try something bolder like black or a dark gray. You can also go with a monochromatic backsplash that’s popular in contemporary homes or a mosaic style that’s perfect for an eclectic vibe.

Tile backsplashes are typically made from ceramic, porcelain or stone. But you can also choose glass, metal or shells to add a unique touch to your kitchen.

Wall tile is less likely to be subject to heavy abuse, so it’s more flexible than floor tile. You can use it to create a faux shiplap effect for a Fixer Upper-approved open floor plan or to add a sleek, minimalist look. You can also experiment with a herringbone pattern or other unique designs that will add a one-of-a-kind touch to your home.

Choosing the right material for your kitchen floor and backsplash depends on how much traffic they’ll see, whether you have kids or pets, and your overall decorating style. For example, the hard surface of ceramic tile can be cold on bare feet and dropped dishes may break. On the other hand, a porous option like marble can stain from food spills and requires regular sealing to prevent stains. To avoid these issues, consider selecting a resilient tile that’s designed to be slip-resistant and choose a matte finish instead of glossy tiles.