Simply put, a Backsplash is a set of small tiles that are arranged in an inlay pattern and often used as a wall or floor tile. Backsplash tiles can be made from a variety of materials, including natural stone, glass, ceramic, porcelain, metal and more. Sometimes Backsplash tiles even feature combined materials!

Backsplash tile is popular for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes, as well as floor tile for small spaces. The tiles come in a variety of shapes including square, hexagonal and rectangular.

 

 

 

 

Tile is a unique flooring type than can be used in a variety of places: inside showers, on the floor, and on walls. However, it’s important to note that not all Backsplash tile is optimized for certain conditions, so it’s best to check with the manufacturer before installing. The two types of ceramic tile we’ll cover are wall tiles and floor tiles.

Wall: Wall tiles are typically smaller and more decorative tiles used in showers, as tile backsplash and other accents. They usually require a lower PEI Rating (typically 1-2) and less durability, since you won’t be walking on them.

Floor: Floor tiles need to be able to take more daily wear and tear. After all, they’re being walked on every day! Floor tiles are specially designed to take the daily stepping and dancing that happens on your floor. If you want to make sure a Backsplash tile is good as floor tile, check the PEI rating. A higher rating means it’s safe as floor tile.

 

 

 

 

Backsplash tiles come in several different shapes. Though square and rectangles have been popular throughout the years, classic hexagon tiles have been making a comeback! They look a little more vintage, and vintage is back in style.

• Hexagon: Hexagons are a six-sided shape that was made popular in the 20s and 30s. Now they’re back and more modern than ever! Classic black and white hexagon Backsplash tile is still popular for bathroom flooring, but now hexagons look like other materials, like natural stone.
• Square: Square Backsplash tiles are contemporary and streamlined. You can use the clean lines to create different patterns or line them up for a simple, but classic look. Square tiles come in a variety of materials, so there’s plenty to choose from. You can even find square Backsplash tiles that look like wood!
• Rectangle: Rectangular Backsplash tiles are one of the most popular tile shapes out there. They are very modern and you’ll probably find this Backsplash style in most homes. This type of Backsplash tiles features thin rectangles, often in different colors.

 

 

 

 

Shade variation refers to how many different shades of the main color are present in the Backsplash. Some homeowners want to stick to one main color scheme, so a low shade variation may be desired. Others might wish for a variety of colors in a color family- those Backsplashes have high variation.

High variation shades tend to be more realistic looking for Backsplashes mimicking natural stone, while low variation tends to stick to one color or very similar colors.

 

 

 

Backsplash tiles come in many different styles; let’s take a look.

Wood Grain: Backsplash tiles can mimic just about anything now, including wood grain. For a more out-of-the-box look, Backsplash tiles that mimic the texture and look of wood are a modern interpretation of Backsplash tiles.

Traditional: A classic Backsplash pattern, sometimes in squares and other times in hexagonal groups. A contemporary choice for a traditional look.

Stone: A more generic stone look that can feature high-variations of tones, or more neutral color families. It appears textured like natural stone.

Travertine: Popular in neutral brown tones, travertine appears more textured than marble and other natural stone looks

Limestone: Known for its fossilized patterns, a limestone-look Backsplash tile will instantly elevate the look of your room without the maintenance associated with soft, fussy limestone.

 

 

 

Still, have questions about Backsplash tiles? Check out some of our most frequently asked questions.

Is Backsplash tile waterproof? The materials Backsplash tile is often created from (ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal, etc) are extremely waterproof. That’s why they are often used in bathrooms and kitchens and as a backsplash.

Can Backsplash wall tiles be used on floors? Sometimes, yes!

Does Backsplash tile need grout? Yes, Backsplash tiles will need grouting. Due to the number of lines to fill, spreading the grout evenly across the surface is essential for a finished look.