Your kitchen is probably one of the most frequented areas in your home. You want it to be a reflection of your personal style, but you also need it to offer practical usefulness. As with many other design factors in you home, you’ll need to determine what’s most important; easy to clean and durability vs pure aesthetics. In this article, we’ll walk you through a few favorite choices when it comes to kitchen backsplash tiles, and the pros and cons of each.
Glass Tiles
Glass mosaic tiles can offer a sleek, high-end look. Available in many shapes and colors, glass tiles can make a bold, artistic statement. Finishes can vary from frosted, pale neutral tones to iridescent brights and everything in between. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from vintage-looking penny sized circular tiles to large, modern strips.
Glass tiles are also easy to clean, and don’t require special cleaning products that other types of tile may need. You can simply use a solution of vinegar and water in a spray bottle to wipe the tiles clean. You’ll still want to be sure that you keep your grout sealed, even if your tiles are easy care. The grout left unsealed can still absorb stains and become discolored. Glass tiles are extremely popular for kitchen upgrades right now and, if you are planning to sell your home in the not too distant future, are no doubt a great selling point.
On the other hand, detailed glass tile mosaics can be tricky to clean. They can also be cost-prohibitive, with most popular designs ranging between $20 and $30 a square foot. Unless you are ready to make a significantly larger investment, many glass tile styles look the same or very similar. This homogenous, trendy look can also raise question marks as to long-term resale.
Natural Stone Tile
Natural stone tiles have a timeless, universal appeal. If long-term value and resale are at the top of your priorities, natural stone is the way to go. Unlike glass, no two natural stone backsplashes look exactly alike. Since the tiles are created from natural stone, each piece is different with color and pattern variations abound. Natural stone also tends to be significantly cheaper than glass, running about $4-8 per square foot on average.
While it does seem like natural stone is an all-around winner for long-term style and individuality, there are some drawbacks to consider. Natural stone requires specific cleaning solutions – or else you risk discoloring and damaging your beautiful tile. In the same vein, stone is porous, meaning it will absorb at least a little bit of whatever liquid it comes in contact with, be it water… or grease and tomato sauce. Sealing your natural stone tile is important to keep stains to a minimum.
What’s Best for My Home?
While there are many pros and cons to both glass and stone tiles, the choice comes down to your personal style, your home’s overall style, and how you really use the space. A contemporary, on-trend home with lots of cooking may be better off with glass tiles, while a more traditional homeowner who doesn’t mind a slightly higher maintenance would appreciate the classic look of natural stone – but this doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to these parameters. Both stone and glass are great choices for a variety of home styles.
Need more inspiration for your tile design job? We’ve got information on kitchen tile choices and bathroom tile options. Once you’ve gotten your tile installed, keeping it clean, sealed, and in top shape is important. Contact GroutSmith Tulsa for a FREE in-home estimate today.
