A tile backsplash is a beautiful focal point that adds interest and style to a kitchen while also making cleanup easy. The abundance of tile options available allows homeowners to customize their kitchen backsplashes to fit unique preferences. While a kitchen backsplash certainly presents the opportunity for limitless creative freedom, most homeowners choose a backsplash style that is neutral enough to be attractive to future homebuyers.

Here are some considerations for choosing tile for a kitchen backsplash:

• Textures and colors in the kitchen and throughout the house. Incorporating consistent styles throughout the home establishes the flow and contributes to an overall quality aesthetic. If most of the home uses neutral tones and stone textures, you may want to incorporate a similar style into your kitchen backsplash to keep the style consistent. Similarly, a modern glass tile backsplash may be more suitable for a home with other elements of modern style and architecture. As with other home improvement projects, a kitchen backsplash should fit right in with the aesthetics of the home.
• Maintenance associated with different types of tiles and grouts. When shopping for tiles, keep in mind that some require more maintenance than other types. For example, porous tiles such as natural stone tiles will need to be sealed and resealed periodically. Be sure to read all of the manufacturer’s recommendations for any tile you’re considering installing in your home to ensure it meets your maintenance expectations.
• Tile color and texture. The colors and finishes of the tiles are practically endless. A kitchen backsplash in a vibrant color can make a bold statement, and one in neutral tones can create a sleek, understated look. While the color and texture of your backsplash is a personal preference, remember to consider whether you intend to sell the home one day and what future buyers might prefer. If you want to add color but don’t want your backsplash to be too personal, you might consider installing a neutral-toned backsplash and achieve a bold look through a vibrant wall color, which can be easily changed later. Remember that a tile backsplash should complement the other elements of the kitchen, such as the cabinets, countertops, and flooring.

Once you’ve chosen the tile and grout that best suits your needs and preferences, careful planning is necessary before installing your backsplash. In Part II, we examine some of the steps involved in preparing to install a kitchen backsplash.