Achieve Your Dream Kitchen Remodel

Are you planning to remodel or restyle your kitchen to add elegance, glamour, and utility value to it? As homemakers spend a considerable amount of time in the kitchen to prepare and serve food to the loved ones, the kitchen is the most active part of your home. Similarly, if not properly planned, the budget for your kitchen remodeling project may go beyond your expectations.

Selection of the right tiles for your kitchen would be the most important task. You need to consider various techno-commercial factors while choosing and ordering your tiles for your dream kitchen remodel. The kitchen tiles play a vital role in deriving the overall aesthetic appeal and the unique personality of your kitchen.

 

Green Gray Blue Teardrop Glossy Glass Mosaic Tile

 

 

How to choose the perfect tiles that suit your kitchen decor theme?

Buying the right tiles is complicated. The wide-ranging variety of mosaic tiles may leave you confused. Selecting the best tiles for any space inside or outside your home requires a proper analysis of the application and also the aesthetic appeal you expect to achieve. 

 

Consider the Application

 

Here, for a kitchen, your priority should be to look out for the tiles that complement the application. As you cook every day, using different types of ingredients, your backsplash would be subject to splashes and spills frequently. Again, the backsplash must sustain the heat dissipated by your flame, ovens, and even dishwasher.

 

Be Creative to Boost the Aesthetics

 

Think of the desired interior decoration theme before you start your search for the best tiles. The tiles derive the aesthetic appearance of the backsplash and the entire kitchen. Do you want your backsplash contrasting with the walls, floor, and cabinets, or is it okay if it goes with the flow?

 

Here are some questions that you need to answer to decide on a strategy to redecorate your kitchen. Hiring a professional interior designer would be appreciable. Yet, it is also practical to stretch your creativity to choose and buy the tiles that bring a unique personality to your kitchen.

What are the technical aspects you must consider while choosing kitchen backsplash tiles?

Let us take you through some significant technical aspects related to the durability and performance of kitchen tiles so that you can choose your kitchen backsplash tiles wisely.

 

• Your kitchen tiles should sustain heat

As you cook food for your loved ones in the kitchen using various appliances, like your stove, oven, fridge for storage, and a dishwasher for cleaning your utensils, a considerable amount of heat is dissipated. Therefore, your kitchen tiles should sustain high temperatures.

 

• Your kitchen tiles should be water-resistant

We use plenty of water during our cooking activities, like boiling and cleaning. Again, water may spill on the backsplash when your family members drink it or wash their hands with it. So, your floor tiles in the kitchen and the backsplash should not deteriorate due to contact with water.

 

• Long-lasting Colors

It might be embarrassing if the color of your kitchen tiles fades away and the surface wears out within a few months. Isn’t it? The colors on your kitchen tiles should last longer and keep the elegance of your kitchen intact for years to come.

What’s the Difference Between Floor Tile and Backsplash Tile?

The purpose or functioning of these types of tiles is different. The floor tiles are harder and comparatively thicker. The furnishing and appliances are kept on the floor tiles. Again, the family members and guests walk on the floor as well. Thus, the floor tiles can sustain frequent foot traffic and other loads, like your furnishing and appliances kept on the floor. The texture on the floor tiles is usually anti-skid to avoid slips.

 

Backsplash tiles are available in various thicknesses. Most backsplash tiles are lightweight, smooth, and thin as they are installed on walls. Interestingly, some tiles are designed to be installed as backsplash tiles and floor tiles too. Usually, the backsplash tiles with a glossy finish may get slippery after spillage of water on them. That’s why such tiles are not recommended as floor tiles. The bottom line is, the floor tiles need to be of an adequate thickness to sustain loads, such as foot traffic, furnishing, and appliances kept on them.

Which tiles should you choose for your kitchen backsplash?

Considering the technical requirements and decorative needs for the kitchen, the following types of tile are ideal to use as kitchen backsplash tiles:

 

1. Ceramic Tiles
2. Porcelain Tiles
3. Natural Stone Tiles
4. Glass Tiles

 

Mosaic tiles are available in enormous varieties on the market today. Yet, to suit the needs of the particular application, the types of tiles mentioned above are the best tiles.

Additional Factors to Choose Kitchen Backsplash Tiles

The selection of best-suited tiles for your kitchen backsplash would be as tedious as any other shopping experience. You keep browsing through many beautiful options, and then things start popping up in your mind, like the color, pattern, designs, material, finish, and style, and more. Enormous possibilities with creative combinations start ruling your mind for a while. Isn’t it?

 

Though your kitchen backsplash is a smaller portion of your home, the overwhelming options make your selection process quite complicated.

Your backsplashes can have a huge effect on your space.

 

Your Budget

Usually, you think about the budget while concluding your shopping exercise. Yet, this may lead to some unanticipated surprises. Instead of facing disappointment while buying your tiles due to prices exceeding your expectations, it would be wise to plan your expenses well in advance.

 

The best way is to measure the area of your kitchen backsplash and decide on the theme of decor, coordinated with the other decorative elements in the room. Again, selecting unique varieties in mosaic tiles may increase the overall cost of the project.

 

Choosing your Material

The materials you choose greatly affect the initial impact your backsplash makes on your space as well as setting the tone for its overall styling. Luxurious Looks can be achieved using sleek matte, metallic, or glossy pieces while brick or stone is ideal for a more rustic theme.

 

Also, think of installing deco tiles or the latest three-dimensional tile varieties to add a catchy character to your backsplash. Shop for tiles made of durable and aesthetically-pleasing material.

 

Shape-ing it out

Deciding on the best possible shape to outline the persona of your backsplash and ultimately the kitchen, is an essential element in the selection process. For instance, classic field tile in a subway layout brings a more contemporary look.

 

Geometric shapes, like hexagon tiles and wave patterns, help you add some bold taste with a vibrant character. However, these unique options may add to the overall cost. There are many other options with eye-catching colors and attractive shapes you can try.  

Consider the Shape of Your Backsplash

As we mentioned before, the number of pieces needed to complete your installation can greatly affect your budget depending on the size/shape of the tile being used as well as the height of your overall backsplash.

 

Some choose to tile up to the cabinetry or whatever fixtures they have on the wall in question. Others opt for the “whole-package” and tile up to the ceiling itself. This allows for a more immersive experience overall depending on the layout of your space. 

Compatibility - Does fit in?

We hope you didn’t try to get a head start on your installation before finishing reading our tips, did you? Compatibility and integration are the most significant aspects while shopping for tiles. There is no point in buying a party wear shirt for your business meetings. No, just like you wouldn’t wear gym shorts to a wedding, you need to make sure your backsplash style choice is appropriate for the current style of your overall setup.

 

If your current fixtures are modern, rustic, or more contemporary, you should be sure that you choose a tile or design that is similar in aesthetic otherwise your installation may not look as good as you hoped it would.

 

A little planning goes a long way and with the right amount of attention to detail as well as planning, the simple addition of a new backsplash could completely transform your space.

 

Which kitchen backsplash tiles should you use?

Through the factors covered in this guide so far, you must be well-versed with the selection criteria for the best tile design for kitchen backsplash. Considering the application, aesthetics, ease in installation, and maintenance requirements, ceramic tiles are the best for kitchen backsplash. These tiles are also known as porcelain tiles. 

 

Technically, the ceramic tiles are quite resilient and flexible. They are also available in various sizes to match your preferences. At the same time, the porcelain tiles are comparatively an economic option. 

 

However, there are several other options available according to your taste and the desired aesthetic appeal.

 

What is the ideal thickness for kitchen backsplash tiles?

The thickness of most kitchen backsplash tiles ranges from 3/16” to 1/4”. For installing these tiles you can carry out various methods. You can spread a thick layer of mortar, a suitable thin-set adhesive, or a cement backer board.

 

Types of Kitchen Tiles for Backsplash

There are different types of kitchen backsplash tiles to choose from. The material, finish, and pattern derives the types of tiles. Let us take a look at some of the most popular tile types: 

 

• Ceramic Tiles

These are available in a comparatively economic price range. The ceramic tiles are lightweight and durable too. Again, it is easy to install these tiles for a kitchen backsplash.

 

What is the difference between color-body tile and through-body tile?

How ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles differ technically?

Backsplash Tile Styles

Backsplash Tile Shapes

Choosing the right shape for your backsplash tiles is crucial to attaining the desired visual impact. You need to select a shape of the tiles that complements the overall area being covered and also the other decorative elements in your kitchen.

 

• The tiles in an arabesque shape help you attain an antique look and feel to your kitchen.
• Hexagon mosaic tiles with a glossy finish and a catchy color help you attain some bright and vibrant styling.
• If you desire a classic, smooth, and plain appearance, shop for subway, linear mosaic tile, rectangular or square shapes.
• There are many other options, like a teardrop, penny tiles, fan fish, classic modular that combines different shapes, sizes, and colors, and subway waves. 

Backsplash Tile Sizes

If you wish that your kitchen backsplash should serve as the center of attraction for your kitchen, the size of the tiles you choose always matters. Following are the sizes available in kitchen backsplash tiles:

 

• Large Format Tile Size

If you are covering a larger backsplash area, and if the kitchen is considerably larger in size, the large format tile size would be a suitable choice. Again, you can also use these tiles, if you want a single color and finish to decorate your backsplash. Buy large-format tiles to get a neutral, pleasant appearance to your kitchen.

 

• Square Tile Size

To create a vibrant visual impact through your backsplash, you can select tiles in square shape. You would find several varieties of square tiles based on colors and finishes. Installing these tiles requires some patience as they may be smaller in size. Yet, the dazzling effect square tiles create is simply marvelous.

 

• Rectangular Tile Size

Rectangular tiles look conventional. Yet, you would find some modern additions in this segment that create a delight to your eyes. The usual subway tiles, pillowed tiles, beveled tiles, and linear mosaic tiles are the different innovations in this range to beautify your kitchen backsplashes.

 

• Mosaic Tile Size

To keep it simple, mosaic tiles are made combining smaller regular or irregular pieces of colorful stones, glass or ceramic, cemented together using mortar, with a cover on the surface.

Backsplash Tile Patterns

Shop for a wide variety of tile patterns to beautify your kitchen backsplashes. Some of the most popular patterns are arabesque, brick pattern, chevron, hexagon tile, interlocking tile, puzzle tile, pillowed tile, pebble, pencil-liner-molding, penny, and much more.

Backsplash Tile Finishes

Backsplash tiles are available in various attractive finishes. The finish of the tiles you use for your backsplash plays a vital role in the overall appearance, ease in cleaning, and durability of your backsplash. Let us take a glance at the most popular finishes:

 

• Glazed

Glazed tiles have a layer of a slick material on them. Usually, these tiles come with a glossy finish. The shine and the feel of these tiles add a glimpse of luxury to your kitchen backsplashes. Metallic mosaic tiles and glass mosaic tiles fall under this category, along with many other varieties.

 

• Polished

As the name suggests, polished tiles come with a highly polished finish. The glossy finish is achieved by grinding the surface of these tiles using a diamond disc. These tiles add to the aesthetics of your kitchen backsplash. Again, they are water-resistant and easy to clean as they hardly absorb the spilled liquids on them.

 

Backsplash Tile Pros and Cons

Analyzing the merits and demerits of a kitchen backsplash becomes essential as you would have some aggressive plans to remodel your kitchens. Here are some crucial perspectives that you must know while making your purchase decision for the best kitchen backsplash tiles:

What are the benefits of tile backsplashes?

 

• Protection of Walls

The kitchen backsplash goes behind your stove and sink. Thus, it protects the walls from stains and spills, watermarks, and other unwanted substances harming the outer layer of the walls.

 

• Great Value-Addition

By installing the kitchen backsplash, you attain a beautiful, luxurious, and eye-alluring look to your kitchen. Again, a great finish is a bonus. Usually, it would be in the normal range of human vision. So, a good tile backsplash reflects your taste and lifestyle. It adds tremendous value to your setup. The varieties like honed tiles help you obtain a wonderful look for sure.

 

• Ease in Cleaning

It is easy to wipe away any stains and watermarks from the surface of the kitchen backsplash. Imagine the mess the splashes of oil, sausage, coffee, and other liquids might create in its absence. It helps you maintain hygiene in the most important part of your home, your kitchen!

 

• Pest Control

A well-installed kitchen backsplash doesn’t leave any drywalls in your kitchen. Thus, pests never get a chance to infiltrate. Your wall near the stove and sink in the kitchen remains sealed and thus helps you maintain a clean surrounding.

 

• Overflowing choices

You would find enormous varieties in the backsplash tiles based on the material, finish, pattern, style, size, and shape. So, you can choose the most suitable tiles as per your aspirations about the looks and feel of your kitchens. 

What are the drawbacks of tile backsplashes?

Following are a few drawbacks of tile backsplashes that you must know: 

 

• Complicated installation process

Installing a kitchen backsplash requires special skills and tools. Again, some procedures may be unique for a particular type of tile. So, you need to study the process well if you are a DIY-savvy individual, or it would be a good idea to hire a skilled professional for the installation.

 

• Not easy to change

Once you install tile backsplashes, it is not easy to change them, as if you change the curtain of your window. Dismantling, cleaning the surface, and reinstallation would be time-consuming and costly. Selecting peel and stick tiles can be better, as the first-time DIYers can install them with a great deal of ease.

 

• Some varieties are expensive

Some of the varieties, like glass mosaic tile and marble mosaic tile, are expensive. There are economic options too. Yet, you may need to compromise on the finish and the eye-catching appearance of your kitchen backsplash by choosing them.

 

• Some varieties need extra care

Some varieties like stone tiles leave several gaps and attract grease and other sticky material. They require additional upkeep to retain the dazzling looks and cleanliness.

 

How to Install Backsplash Tiles?

Installing a tile backsplash requires adequate planning, some technical abilities and skills, and patience to do it right the first time. Here are the steps to install an eye-alluring kitchen backsplash:

Material required: tiles, tile adhesive, grout
Tools you need: drill with mixing attachment, pencil, right angle, hand tools for tile cutting, grouting sponge, notched trowel.

Steps:

 

• Layout

You must have measured the area of your backsplash from the top of the counter to cabinets or any other reference point while ordering tiles. Now, as per the size of your tiles, draw horizontal lines on the wall using a pencil.

 

It is advisable to use spacers between the tiles to maintain a uniform gap and to prevent the tiles from slipping before the adhesive sets.

 

• Tile Cutting

If required, cut your tiles to fit in the exact area of the backsplash. Use recommended methods and tools to cut your tiles. Avoiding irregular cuts, chipping, and other finish issues is important while cutting the tiles to the desired size.

 

• Apply Tile Adhesive

You get the adhesive either premixed or in powder form. Add water to the powder to attain a consistency similar to peanut butter. Then, apply the adhesive on the backsplash area using a notched trowel. The parallel lines help to maintain the tiles in place for a long time.

 

• Install Tiles

Start installing your tiles either from a vertical border, or the bottom-most row if there is no border planned. Placing spacers, and not squeezing the edges into the adhesive help you maintain an accurate vertical plain and uniform gaps between the tiles. Continue with the installations in horizontal rows from bottom to top.

 

• Grouting

Let the tiles set for 24 hours. Choose a premixed grout in an appropriate color corresponding to the tile finish and color. Use a drill with a mixing attachment at variable speed to mix the grout up to a consistency like peanut butter.

 

Remove dust from the tile surface using a sponge. Remove plastic spacers and apply the grout with a rubber float diagonally across the backsplash tiles. Use a sponge to remove the excess grout. Keep rinsing the sponge without making the grout wet, as it is slow in the setting.

 

Would you buy tiles for the kitchen floor and backsplash online?

The most renowned online shopping portals make your shopping experiences delightful when you would be planning to buy tiles for your kitchen floors and backsplashes. You can avoid the hassle to commute to stores and get disappointed as you don’t find the desired variety, by shopping online.

 

It is highly recommended to buy kitchen tiles from the online e-commerce portals owned and managed by reputed manufacturers and wholesalers of different varieties of tiles.

 

These organizations possess rich experience in designing and manufacturing the best tiles. Again, you can find enormous varieties of tiles in one single place brought to your fingertips! Thus, you can rest assured that you are buying tiles for your kitchen floors and backsplashes from an expert.

 

Where can you buy all types of kitchen tiles?

Mosaic Tile Outlet has emerged as the most trusted brand over the last few years for the spectacular range of kitchen tiles and other varieties. We are manufacturers and wholesalers of mosaic tiles for over twenty years.

 

You can cruise through the outstanding selection of mosaic tiles here. To find kitchen tiles, you can click on ‘SHOP’, select ‘APPLICATION’, then choose ‘INTERIOR BACKSPLASH’ or ‘INTERIOR FLOOR.’ The exciting range of mosaic tiles across applications, patterns, shapes, sizes, colors, styles, and much more.

 

We are proud to inform you that Mosaic Tile Outlet gets an average rating of 4.8/5. Most importantly, 98% of our customers rate our products between 4.5 and 5 out of 5. Thus, our focus on better customer experiences through excellent product quality and customer service is underlined through these outstanding ratings and appreciation our brand receives.

 

One of the reviews says:

"Exquisite. Beautiful tiles with exquisite detail. On point with current decorating trends. Love it.”

- August 1, 2020 by Gina G. (TX, United States)

The customer was delighted to receive the package well in time, and also with the quality, colors, and design of the tiles. Here is the implementation image of the backsplash tile that received appreciation:

 

The Product: Beige Brown Gray Linear Earth Tone Glossy Travertine Glass Mosaic Tile

 Product image:

 

 

 

Mosaic Tile Outlet receives the best ratings and reviews at the most popular online shopping portals, such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy, Wayfair, and Houzz. Thus, we are among the most appreciated brands for the mosaic tile product range today. We are passionate about researching and presenting the most innovative products at regular intervals to beautify your kitchen backsplashes and various other parts of your homes.

Shop for kitchen tiles choosing Mosaic Tile Outlet as your most preferred shopping destination. Be among our delighted customers today, choosing the right kitchen backsplash tiles as per your aspirations and preferences.