Try a Shorter Kitchen Backsplash for Budget-Friendly Style
Shave costs on a kitchen remodel with a pared-down backsplash in one of these great materials
Shane Inman
April 22, 2013
Houzz contributor and senior principal interior designer of The Inman Company. Under Shane's leadership, The Inman Company is committed to raising the standard of business to incorporate the highest-quality customer service with unwavering excellence in design.
Houzz contributor and senior principal interior designer of The Inman Company. Under... More
The overwhelming amount of materials needed for a new kitchen or a kitchen remodel can quickly make your costs skyrocket. Save precious dollars by cutting down on materials while maintaining high style. Using a 4-inch-high backsplash instead of the standard 18-inch version can help reduce material costs while still looking great.
Take a look at how these kitchen designs incorporate a short backsplash — could one of these work in your home?
Take a look at how these kitchen designs incorporate a short backsplash — could one of these work in your home?
Stone. When installing stone countertops — like the marble countertop in this photo — use the leftover material as a half-wall backsplash. (Stone is sold in 30-inch-deep slabs, while the standard countertop depth is 25 inches with the front overhang.) Using the extra stone to protect your walls also creates a seamless look from backsplash to counter — it's the perfect finishing touch.
Solid surface. When purchasing a solid-surface countertop material — such as Corian or Avonite — you have the option to place a matching 4-inch-high piece against the back wall.
Look into having the material coved, too — the fabricator can add a slight curve where the backsplash meets the countertop, making it seamless. This is great in kitchens because they can be such wet areas, and the seamless corner prevents water from leaking behind the backsplash.
Look into having the material coved, too — the fabricator can add a slight curve where the backsplash meets the countertop, making it seamless. This is great in kitchens because they can be such wet areas, and the seamless corner prevents water from leaking behind the backsplash.
Extended height. Four inches is the average height of a short backsplash, but you can opt for a slightly higher half-wall backsplash.
This homeowner went to the bottom of the window casings for a seamless transition from countertop to window. This is a great look that still saves money — I do this one all the time!
This homeowner went to the bottom of the window casings for a seamless transition from countertop to window. This is a great look that still saves money — I do this one all the time!
Stainless steel. Stainless steel countertop manufacturers can easily make a partial backsplash to match. A stainless steel partial backsplash gets welded directly to the countertop during the manufacturing process for a seamless transition between the two pieces.
Tile. Tile can be one of the most cost-effective partial backsplash and counter materials. Line up your favorite tiles in a single row for instant kitchen character and a very functional partial backsplash.
You can find all sorts of great tiles left over from bigger jobs at tile showrooms or stores — just call and ask. Even mismatched tile can create a big impact for little money.
You can find all sorts of great tiles left over from bigger jobs at tile showrooms or stores — just call and ask. Even mismatched tile can create a big impact for little money.
Brick. This design uses all brick on the freestanding range recess. Using the leftovers for the partial backsplash helped the owners cut down on costs and unifies the space.
Wood. Wood countertops are very popular and look stunning — and so does a matching short splash. Make sure that your contractor and installer use a waterproof silicone adhesive to stick the backsplash to the countertop. Water leaking behind your wood splash will cause rot over time — which can be expensive to clean up.
See the Houzz guides to kitchen counters, backsplashes and more kitchen remodeling ideas
See the Houzz guides to kitchen counters, backsplashes and more kitchen remodeling ideas
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I happen to love both looks - either a small backsplash that matches the counter, or taking the counter right to the wall and adding your own backsplash to the wall between cabinets and counter. There is beauty in both. And it's okay to choose the look that you love and that suits your kitchen. There have been lots of positive, helpful comments here, but there have been a few that have been pretty "my way or the highway" in attitude. So I would just advise that despite what some here would try and make you believe, there is no right or wrong choice, just personal preference. :) Go with what you love and forget the negative people. You will never be sorry if you follow your own path.
How important is a backsplash? Can I do without one? Can I put a backsplash just behind the stove and no place else?
The most important thing about the backsplash is the selection of wall tiles. Here is the most professional backsplash wholesale market. There are different discounts here every day.