A kitchen backsplash, which sits on the wall between your countertops and cabinetry, protects your drywall from spills and stains in the kitchen. Some homeowners prefer to extend up their countertop material up the wall to create a simple backsplash, while others cover as much, or as little, as they like with tiles or other durable materials. Before you start pouring over all of the available backsplash materials and styles out there, first consider whether a standard or full backsplash works best for you and your kitchen design.
According to our friends at hunker.com, a standard backsplash measures four inches up from the your countertop surface. In most cases, it is an additional piece of the same material that you select for your countertops. On the other hand, a full backsplash extends from the surface of your countertop to either the bottom of your upper cabinets, or beyond. (Some homeowners choose to carry a full backsplash all the way to the ceiling.) Either backsplash style can be accomplished with just about any material, so it comes down to your personal style and preference.
Standard backsplashes are a great option for budget-conscious homeowners because they use less material and require less labor than a full backsplash. As a result, a 4-inch backsplash can be a big cost saver, especially if you've opted for a more expensive countertop material. Keep in mind that there is nothing stopping you from exploring other backslash heights, too. Don't be afraid to play with your design — try six inches, eight inches or any other measurement of your choosing.
A full backsplash helps to create a more cohesive transition from the top of your countertop to the upper cabinets in your kitchen. Homeowners often incorporate eye-catching pops of color and texture into a full backsplash through unique tile work or stylish features. This can provide depth and dimension, as well as add a creative focal point to the overall kitchen design.
In addition to the aesthetics, another benefit of a full backsplash is the added protection it gives your kitchen walls. If your kitchen is used regularly for cooking, entertaining or crafting, upgrading to a full-height backsplash might be the way to go — particularly behind the stovetop and sink areas.
Whichever height you choose for your backsplash, our kitchen consultants at Kitchen Magic can help you design the perfect kitchen for your home and lifestyle. Schedule a free in-home design consultation and a quote today!