Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (2024)

When considering a remodel for your kitchen the countertops and backsplash are very important design criteriato consider in your kitchen. Should you go all the way up with the design on the backsplash? How much is too much backsplash? Do the short side walls need backsplash on them? The answer is NO NO and NO!!

Don’t do it - IT'S AWKWARD. It just kind of hangs up there in mid-air without a proper place to stop.

If you have a short backsplash, something 4, 6, or 9” high, it’s easier to get away with a side backsplash.

The backsplash visually blends in with the countertop design, making it feel married to that. And it doesn't end up being so high up on the wall, all by itself.

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (1)

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (2)

If you’re in a kitchen, and you’re doing the countertop-to-upper-cabinet-18”-high-backsplash design, it’s best not to wrap that around to the side wall.

As I always say... Transitioning materials on an inside corner is always best. Don’t you agree?

The only reason to have a side backsplash like this is if there is a water source close by where the wall will get repeated dousing on a regular basis. Of course the other reason is if the countertop installer was not very good and didn't scribe the counter to the wall so that a tight joint sealed with a small caulking is impossible. Many contractors use this side backsplash to "cover" the large gap between the counter and the wall. Even if the wall is uneven or is tight at one place and wide at another, a good countertop installer should be able tocut thecounters to butt tightly to the wall with a seamless design.

If you MUST have a side backsplash for any of the above reasons, make sure the tile is the color of the wall so that visually it doesn't call attention to itself and pleaseuse either a tumbled tile with a rounded edge, or get the tile guy to bullnose the edge pieces fora finished design.

On the topic of backsplash why go traditional when there are a variety of alternatives for unique materials. Here are just a few alternative materials for backsplash.

Metal Tile Design

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (3)

Mosaic Tile Design

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (4)

Wood Tile Design

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (5)

Why is your Backsplash so important?

A backsplash is used to protect yourwall in the area in which you are cooking from the splattering of oil and food particles. Compared to a wallpaper or painted wall, a backsplash makes a whole lot of sense as far as hygiene and protection are concerned. However, a poorly designed kitchen can make the countertop and backsplash appear disconnected.

When considering that kitchen remodel make sure you are informed and consult with a designer. Go Pro Interiors has designers in house to help you create your ideal space.

We Design with you in mind!

480-219-7503

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (6)

Design; The Side Backsplash Dilemma (2024)

FAQs

Should I tile the side wall for a backsplash? ›

General Rule No.

Opinions differ on this, but for a polished look I typically tile just the main walls of the kitchen (those that back the cabinets), ending at the corners rather than wrapping around to finish the sides, if there are any.

Are bathroom sidesplashes necessary? ›

In a bathroom, where water is frequently used, installing a backsplash and/or side splash can help prevent mold, mildew, and other water-related issues. In addition to their functional benefits, backsplashes and side splashes can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of a bathroom.

What is the rule of thumb for kitchen backsplash? ›

The rule of thumb for backsplashes is to either complement or contrast with the surrounding elements in the space. Consider choosing a backsplash that harmonizes with the dominant colors and patterns of the countertops and cabinetry for a cohesive look.

Where to end a backsplash on a side wall? ›

One of the best ways to end a backsplash is to align the tiles at the top to form a clean edge at a natural stopping point, such as wall cabinetry, a soffit, or the base of a windowsill. With cabinetry, you can simply end the tiling just underneath the casework.

Where should you not put a backsplash? ›

Do not put a backsplash behind your fridge unless you can clearly see that wall. In most cases, the space behind the fridge is not visible anywhere in the kitchen. There is no need to spend money on labor and materials for a place you will not see.

What not to do with a kitchen backsplash? ›

6 Common Backsplash Mistakes DIY'ers Make
  • Ending the Backsplash Suddenly. Backsplash runs between your cabinets, behind stoves, and can run up all the way to the ceiling if you choose. ...
  • Installing in the Wrong Order. ...
  • Choosing Too Busy of a Pattern. ...
  • Not Measuring. ...
  • Ignoring Details. ...
  • Underestimating the Timeframe.
May 12, 2022

Are bathroom backsplashes outdated? ›

The question of whether backsplashes are outdated is periodically raised in interior design. However, the answer lies in the choice of materials, colors, and patterns. A backsplash combines function and form, serving as a necessary element of kitchen and bathroom design, for example, oak cabinets and backsplash.

Is a 4 inch backsplash out of style? ›

Cons One of the main disadvantages to the 4-inch slab is that it's becoming an outdated look. The main goal with your kitchen design is to choose features that you love that will also make your kitchen feel timeless so you're not having to update it constantly.

Is it better to have a backsplash or no backsplash in the kitchen? ›

Most designers will recommend that you use a backsplash because they prevent water, grease, and other liquids from damaging the wall behind it. Designer Ashley Fong tells us that, You don't need a backsplash, but without one, your wall is exposed and will require a higher level of maintenance.

How far down should backsplash go behind stove? ›

How high should the backsplash be behind the stove? The height can vary based on your design preference and the range of wall protection you need. Commonly, backsplashes are about 15-30 inches high, but they can extend up to the range hood or cabinetry.

Should backsplash be vertical or horizontal? ›

Horizontal tiles may be more suitable for a traditional or classic look. But if you want something more unique, vertical tiles are trending with contemporary decor and have the versatility to coordinate with styles such as minimalism and boho.

Should backsplash touch cabinets? ›

Backsplashes need to line up with the upper cabinet.

That is my general rule that I lean into all the time. Align the tile backsplash with the upper cabinet.

Should backsplash go on side walls? ›

A side backsplash remains useless unless it sits near the sink where drenching usually takes place. There is no reason for putting a backsplash on dry areas in the kitchen. After all, water is the main reason a backsplash exists. It protects the wall from water damage.

What to do at edge of backsplash? ›

  1. 1 | Trims. Using accent tile trims is the most common way to finish a kitchen backsplash edge. ...
  2. 2 | Metal Edges. The metal edge look is becoming more and more popular to finish the edge of tiles. ...
  3. 3 | Glazed-Edge Tiles. ...
  4. 4 | Caulked Edge. ...
  5. 5 | Create Your Own Bullnose Edge. ...
  6. 6 | Have a Wooden Trim Edge.

Should the backsplash go to the edge of the countertop? ›

I would end it at countertop as that is what back splash is for. Ending at cabinet would look odd. End at the counter, but put floating shelve above (lining up with bottom, top, middle of cabinet) so it doesn't look off center. You could take the tile all the way to the doorway and down to the floor.

Where should you start when tiling a backsplash? ›

It's important to determine where to lay the first tile, as opposed to starting on one end or the other. A good rule is to pick a focal point in the room – such as a stove – and then tile out and up from there!

Should I tile all kitchen walls? ›

Tiles are an amazingly practical surface for kitchens, so consider covering entire walls with your favorite tile, not just around the sink and cooking area. Wall tiles are easy to maintain, hygienic and can create a serious style statement when used in statement block colors.

Should backsplash go all the way up the wall? ›

A general rule is to end the kitchen backsplash tile in line with the uppers. They should form a crisp line. You can get away with extending to near the doorway if you choose a pencil or bullnose tile that makes a natural transition point to the untiled wall.

Can you tile directly on drywall for backsplash? ›

As long as your wall is smooth and flat, you can install a ceramic tile kitchen backsplash directly over drywall or plaster with no problem. Start by cleaning the wall to remove any grease, then apply thin-set adhesive, and set the tile. After the adhesive has set, apply grout, and you're done.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Mrs. Angelic Larkin

Last Updated:

Views: 6414

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Mrs. Angelic Larkin

Birthday: 1992-06-28

Address: Apt. 413 8275 Mueller Overpass, South Magnolia, IA 99527-6023

Phone: +6824704719725

Job: District Real-Estate Facilitator

Hobby: Letterboxing, Vacation, Poi, Homebrewing, Mountain biking, Slacklining, Cabaret

Introduction: My name is Mrs. Angelic Larkin, I am a cute, charming, funny, determined, inexpensive, joyous, cheerful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.