| A tile backsplash makes a beautiful focal point that | | | | types. For instance, porous tiles such as those made |
| adds interest and style to a kitchen while making | | | | of natural stone will need to be sealed and periodically |
| cleanup easier. The abundance of tile options available | | | | resealed. Be sure to read all manufacturer |
| allows homeowners to personalize their kitchen | | | | recommendations for any tile you are considering |
| backsplashes to accommodate unique preferences. | | | | installing in your home to be sure that it fits with |
| While a kitchen backsplash certainly presents the | | | | your expectations for maintaining it. |
| opportunity for limitless creative freedom, most | | | | - Color and texture of the tile. The colors and finishes |
| homeowners choose a backsplash style that is | | | | of tile are practically endless. A kitchen backsplash in |
| neutral enough to be appealing to future home | | | | a vibrant color can make a bold statement, and one |
| buyers. | | | | with neutral tones can create an understated, elegant |
| Here are a few considerations for choosing tile for a | | | | look. While the color and texture of your backsplash |
| kitchen backsplash: | | | | is a personal preference, remember to consider |
| - Textures and colors in the kitchen and throughout | | | | whether you intend to sell the home someday and |
| the home. Incorporating consistent styles throughout | | | | what future buyers would prefer. If you want to add |
| a home establishes flow and contributes to a quality | | | | color but do not want to make the backsplash too |
| overall aesthetic. If the majority of the home utilizes | | | | personal, you may consider installing a neutral toned |
| neutral tones and stone textures, you may want to | | | | backsplash and achieve a bold look through a vibrant |
| incorporate a similar style into the kitchen backsplash | | | | wall color, which can be easily changed later. |
| to keep the style consistent. Likewise, a modern | | | | Remember that a tile backsplash should complement |
| glass tile backsplash may be better suited for a home | | | | the other elements in the kitchen such as the |
| with other elements of modern style and | | | | cabinets, countertops and floors. |
| architecture. As with other home improvement | | | | Once you have chosen the tile and grout that is best |
| projects, a kitchen backsplash should fit seamlessly | | | | suited for your needs and preferences, careful |
| with the aesthetic of the home. | | | | planning is in order before the backsplash can be |
| - Maintenance associated with different types of tile | | | | installed. In Part II we examine some of the steps |
| and grout. As you shop for tile, keep in mind that | | | | involved with preparing to install a kitchen backsplash. |
| some tile requires more maintenance than other | | | | |