The area between your countertops and the bottom of your cabinets draws a lot of attention and can be a focal point of your kitchen renovation. The backsplash is both functional and decorative and deserves much consideration when designing your new kitchen.

The backsplash is designed to protect walls from water, grease and other cooking foods that can damage an exposed drywall surface. The backsplash should be a minimum of 4 inches above countertops, but for a sleek look, the entire area between the counter and cabinet should be covered by the backsplash material. The backsplash’s waterproof surface not only protects your wall surface from damage, it also makes your kitchen more sanitary by limiting the growth of mold and mildew associated with waterlogged surfaces.

You have a wide variety of options for your backsplash material when you remodel your kitchen. It’s important that your choice of backsplash complements both your countertops and cabinets to display a consistent theme in your kitchen. The backsplash should tie the design elements of your kitchen together, and if it doesn’t, the full kitchen feel just won’t be there.

Using raw natural stone tiles in earth tones will give your kitchen an ‘old world’ feel. Combined with natural wood cabinets and granite slab countertops, your kitchen will have an elegant touch. For a more contemporary look, a sleek stainless steel backsplash paired with clean, smooth-topped cabinets and a Corian-surface countertop will fit the bill. Hand-painted tiles to create a pattern or mural on your backsplash will give your kitchen a country or Mediterranean feel. You can use the same material for your backsplash that you use for your countertop for a sophisticated modern look. Glass block, metal sheets, or even cork may be other options you can use for your backsplash material. You can be as extravagant or simple as you want with the material and design of your backsplash. If you’re on a tight budget, there are a couple of ideas to consider. An inexpensive way to provide the protection that a backsplash does to your walls is a waterproof vinyl wallpaper backsplash application. If you want the look of a more traditional backsplash, you can either install your backsplash just on the wall behind your sink and not worry about the surface on the other wall in your kitchen, or add the backsplash to those walls as per your budget allows.

With all the design options available for your backsplash, you should consult with a kitchen designer who will help you make the right choices for the feel you’re trying to achieve with your kitchen remodel. They will be able to help you with the choice of material and installation through the contacts they have established. While most types of backsplash installation is relatively easy and can be done by most do-it-yourselfers, an experienced installer will ensure it is finished to a professional appearance and therefore Overall, it’s money well spent.