Backsplash Materials 101
Determining the perfect backsplash material can be a daunting task. Other than your particular design aesthetic, there are many other factors to consider such as cost, ease of installation and maintenance, and functionality.
Stone
The appeal of stone as a backsplash material is timeless as it adds a rugged yet warm elegance to any kitchen or bath. Favored for its durability, it symbolizes permanence and strength and is a natural choice for many homeowners.
Peel & Stick Stone Tiles
Peel & Stick stone tiles are made of genuine, thin-cut stone. These tiles are crafted to form a revolutionary lightweight and flexible tile product that is easily applied with simple peel and stick application. They offer the look and texture of designer stone tile, but at a fraction of the of the price of other stone products because they do not require a contractor, grout, morter or complicated or expensive tools to install.
Aspect Peel & Stick stone tiles are available in 11 finishes, curated from a palette of rich shades.
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(Pictured left: Aspect Peel & Stick Stone Tile in Iron Slate)
(Pictured above: Aspect Peel & Stick Stone Tile in Iron Slate)
Marble and Other Hard Surfaces
Natural stone tile consists of materials such as granite, quartzite, sandstone, limestone, marble, onyx, slate and travertine, for example. Natural stone tile is more expensive than ceramic, and the variances in texture and color can make it tougher to clean so applying a good sealant after installation is a must!
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Stone-Look
Waterproof, Grout-Free Tiles
Made of PVC, waterproof, grout-free wall tiles and planks install in half the time of grouted wall tile and are water repellent and resistant to old and mildew, making them perfect for wet areas in baths and kitchens.
Waterproof, grout-free wall tiles can easily be cut to size and, compared to ceramic and other tiles, take about half the time to install because they don’t require grout. They’re perfect for the DIY’er who doesn’t want the hassle of hiring a contractor. Waterproof, grout-free wall tiles are easy to keep clean as their smooth surface resists dirt – just wipe clean with a cloth and forego the harsh cleaning chemicals
Palisade tiles and planks are available in fifteen beautiful finishes to match any environment. Palisade tiles come in small and large format options.
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(Pictured left: Palisade Wall Tile in Grecian Earth)
(Pictured above: Palisade Wall Tile in Grecian Earth)
Glass
Glass is a timeless backsplash material, adding a cool and sophisticated look to your kitchen or bath. It’s a nonporous material so it’s durable and easy to clean. Due to its reflective nature, glass tiles will instantly return light and brighten your space.
Peel & Stick 3×6 Glass Tiles
Peel & Stick 3×6 Glass Tiles are designed for the DIY’er, making them a great alternative to traditional glass tiles. They require no grout and can be arranged vertically, horizontally or in any other creative pattern. Aspect Peel & Stick glass tiles are available in 3 colors.
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(Pictured left: Aspect 3×6 Glass Tile in Frost)
(Pictured above: Aspect 3×6 Glass Tile in Frost)
Peel & Stick Matted Glass Tiles
Like traditional glass tiles, matted glass is durable and easy to clean. Peel & stick glass tiles are a great DIY project as they require no grout – simply peel and stick for instant appeal! Aspect Peel & Stick Matted Glass Tiles are available in 12″x 4″ mosaic-style sheets.
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(Pictured left: Aspect Matted Glass Tile in Rustic Clay)
(Pictured above: Aspect Matted Glass Tile in Rustic Clay)
Metal
Due to its nonporous nature, metal might be one of the best backsplash options out there. It won’t rust or corrode and is super easy to clean – just use soap, water and a soft cloth.
Peel & Stick 3×6 Metal Tiles
Aspect Peel & Stick Metal Backsplash Tiles are an eco-friendly, affordable alternative to high-end installations. These tiles are made from 60 percent recycled material and 99 percent of the waste in the manufacturing process is recycled. They are available in both long and short grain options and can be applied both vertically and horizontally. Aspect Peel & Stick Metal Backsplash tiles are available in 4 metal finishes.
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(Pictured left: Aspect 3×6 Metal Tile in Brushed Bronze)
(Pictured above: Aspect 3×6 Metal Tile in Brushed Bronze)
Peel & Stick Matted Metal Tiles
These self-adhesive tiles provide high-tech sheen to a room to convey luxurious sophistication. Aspect Peel and Stick Matted Metal Tiles are available in Honeycomb, Square and Mini-Subway styles and in Champagne and Stainless Steel finishes.
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(Pictured left: Aspect Honeycomb in Champagne Matted Metal Tile)
{Pictured above: Aspect Honeycomb in Champagne Matted Metal Tile)
Tin Tiles
Traditional tin tiles are relatively inexpensive and are fairly easy to install. You can do it yourself using Manus-Bond 75-AM HV Adhesive and a tin snips – edges are sharp so be sure to wear thick gloves when handling!
Tin is durable, but since it’s quite soft, care must be taken in order to prevent denting. It’s heat resistant and like other metal tiles, it’s easily wiped clean with just soap and water.
Tin tiles come in several finishes and patterns. You’ll find a large selection of tin ceiling tiles that can easily be adapted for backsplash applications.
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(Pictured left: Great Lakes Tin Ceiling Tile – Ludington in Copper)
(Pictured above: Great Lakes Tin Ceiling Tile – Ludington in Copper)
Peel & Stick Distressed Metal Tiles
Aspect Peel & Stick Distressed Metal Tiles are the easy, DIY way to add the unique look of aged metal to your walls without the hassle of grout or the expense of a contractor. Since they are made of real metal, they’re durable and like other metal tiles, they easily wipe clean with soap and water.
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(Pictured left: Aspect Peel & Stick Distressed Metal Tile in Bronze Relic)
(Pictured above: Aspect Peel & Stick Distressed Metal Tile in Bronze Relic)
Metal-Look
Decorative Thermoplastic Panels
Decorative vinyl backsplash panels are an easy, DIY alternative to other tile applications. These tiles are impervious to water, impacts and stains and provide a designer look at a fraction of the cost of some traditional backsplash materials. They are super easy to install and require no special tools – just use double-sided tape or construction adhesive.
Fasade faux tin backsplash panels are available in 19 different patterns and numerous finishes.
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(Pictured left: Fasade Fleur-de-lis in Bermuda Bronze)
(Pictured above: Fasade Fleur-de-lis in Bermuda Bronze)
Ceramic Tile
3×6 Ceramic (Subway) Tile
Ceramic and porcelain subway tiles are probably the most common and popular choice for backsplash applications. They are durable, low maintenance and relatively easy to clean. Your design possibilities are virtually endless with ceramic or porcelain tile.
Ceramic and porcelain tile come in a wide range of prices to suit any budget. Although the cost of ceramic tile can be relatively inexpensive, installing them is quite involved, so hiring a contractor may be necessary.
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Peel & Stick Collage Tiles
Aspect Peel & Stick Collage tiles are a unique mix of durable composites that are designed to look like distressed enamel, worn stone or heavily glazed ceramic. The tasteful addition of brushed metal or stone in some of the finishes adds distinctive visual interest to any space.
With its easy, peel and stick installation, these tiles require no contractor, grout, mortar or complicated or expensive tools.
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(Pictured left: Aspect Collage Backsplash Tile in Bone Porcelain)
(Pictured above: Aspect Collage Backsplash Tile in Bone Porcelain)
Wood
Peel & Stick Wood Tiles
Aspect Peel & Stick Wood Tiles are a new addition to the wood backsplash market. The multi-dimensional, mosaic-style panels are made of real wood but are applied to walls with peel and stick adhesive, making it an easy, DIY way to add the timeless look of wood to walls.
To protect wood against staining and rot, both a varnish and wood sealer are recommended. These products will slightly darken the wood color and leave a semi-gloss finish. Cleaning is easy – simply wipe clean with a damp cloth.
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(Pictured left: Aspect Peel & Stick Wood Tile in Weathered Barn)
(Pictured above: Aspect Peel & Stick Wood Tile in Weathered Barn)
Shiplap
Once considered an unconventional backsplash material, Shiplap has increased in popularity in recent years by being showcased on some of the most popular home DIY television shows. This material adds a rustic look and texture to any space.
Shiplap is easy to install with a good adhesive and will require a protective topcoat to prevent food stains or moisture damage and does tend to attract dust so requires frequent cleaning. To clean, just wipe with a damp cloth.
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