subject: Choosing kitchen backsplash Tiles for the kitchen [print this page] Choosing kitchen backsplash Tiles for the kitchen
Tiling or remodelling a kitchen doesn't mean that you have to change absolutely everything within the kitchen; certain areas can be remodelled such as kitchen backsplash areas and behind cookers which will give an instant revamp to any kitchen.
Choosing tiles for behind the cooker takes some thought, this particular area will become covered in grease and grime and you need to opt for tiles which can be cleaned easily and look good. Maintaining tiles is vitally important to keep your kitchen looking clean and fresh and hygienic.
Kitchen backsplash areas are now areas where we can use real design and creativity, gone are the days when we follow the rule of plain square tiles, more and more elaborate details and designs can now be used to make real focal points in your kitchen. Natural stones can be used on backsplash areas and are indeed beautiful but all natural stone used in this area would need to be sealed as natural stone is porous and will attract grease and dirt over time. Once sealed natural stone, especially marble make a great addition to any kitchen and will certainly add elegance and style.
Glass tiles are also an option and are easy to clean and maintain, Glass tiles are non porous and are excellent at not absorbing water, moisture and dirt, although in this particular area, they will need to be cleaned regularly.
Ceramic Tiles are the most popular tiles used on backsplash areas and are extremely durable, they are also easy to clean and come in a wide variety of colours and styles that will fit in with any existing decor.
Cleaning a backsplash area needs to be done regularly to stop any grease and grime from building up, if cleaning is carried out often, the tiles around your kitchen backsplash will stay clean. Grout is the one place where grease and grime will collect over time and it is paramount that tiles are sealed to reduce the impact of grease on your tiles. Cleaning of tiles doesn't have to arduous and time consuming and if done on a regular basis, will take less time. Warm water is often the best solution to use and a clean toothbrush works wonders on the grout between tiles. Using a toothbrush can be extremely effective but be sure to use a clean one each time so you are not rubbing dirt and grease back into the grout.
