Awesome Kitchen Backsplashes That Fit Your Budget
You’ve installed your cabinets, countertops, and appliances in your newly remodeled kitchen. To round things off and add an dash of ‘oomph’ to your kitchen, install a custom DIY backsplash.
When it comes to this area above the countertops, there are a variety of methods and ideas you can employ, all of which are affordable and easy to install. By thinking outside the box, you can create an awesome backsplash that won’t break the bank, and will likely make your kitchen the envy of the block.
Make Your Backsplash Shine
Why not add a touch of gleam and shine to your backsplash by using materials such as glass, acrylic, or even mirrors? Most home improvement stores sell sheets of acrylic, and will cut it to the size you need. You can then mount it by screwing it in at the corners.
Glass and mirrors are also readily available, and can be the perfect material to install in smaller kitchens. Their shine and reflection can amplify the space, and make it look larger than it actually is. Once it’s cut to the right size, you can quickly and easily adhere it to your backsplash using construction glue or cement.
Paint Your Backsplash in the Color of Your Choice
Nothing is easier and more cost-effective than simply using a little paint. But if you think this is too plain or boring, think again. While you could just paint the backsplash in a solid color, you can take things to the next level by adding a little design or texture to the area. Consider using sponges, stencils, tape, and fine paintbrushes to achieve your desired effect.
For instance, you can create a tile effect by adhering painter’s tape to the backsplash in one-inch square-shaped blocks, then painting each section in the color of your choice. Once the paint is dry and the tape has been removed, you’ll end up with the illusion of tile complete with grout lines!
Stainless Steel Isn’t Just For Appliances
There’s a reason why stainless steel has been a wildly popular choice among homeowners: it’s classy, rich-looking, and eye-catching. So why just limit its use on your kitchen appliances? Consider spilling this material over onto your backsplash to create a truly unique, sophisticated, gleaming look.
You can buy sheet metal flashing at your local home improvement store, have it cut to size, then adhere it to your backsplash with construction adhesive. They edges should then be caulked to smooth them out. If you’re feeling a little daring, you might want to even consider other metal sheets, including corrugated metal panels or even copper.
Make Your Backsplash Both Stylish and Functional
A nifty way to achieve a sleek yet functional backsplash is to install a blackboard above the counters. Think about it: how many “lists” do you tend to keep in your kitchen? From your grocery list, to your “to-do” list, to reminder notes for your family, a blackboard backsplash can really come in handy while giving your kitchen a modern and chic look.
Construction adhesive works well to adhere the blackboard after it’s cut to size. You might want to consider applying a finish to it so that it’s protected from moisture. To really add some pizzazz to the blackboard, consider adding some tile or wood trim around the outer edges.
Withstand the Test of Time
While some backsplash trends may come and go, nothing has been able to stay ‘in style’ better than the classic subway tile. It’s sophisticated, clean, elegant and timeless. Subway tile tends to go well with just about any type of countertop and kitchen cabinet. And it’s highly affordable too – you can get these tiles for as little as $2 per square foot. Considering how small this space is, it’ll cost you pennies to complete the project.
Kitchen reno’s can be an expensive undertaking, but they don’t have to be. Adding some simple touches, like a custom-made backsplash, can be just the thing your kitchen needs to make it stand out. With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can create a killer backsplash at a price point you’ll love.
