Kitchen Backsplash Designs

The Must-Have Kitchen Update

You want to change your kitchen but the problem is you do not have enough money to replace the whole thing. However, you really do not have to put in all new stuff in it. Most kitchens are not dysfunctional. They just need to be updated. Yes, it can be very tempting to remodel the whole area but if you are tight on money, it is best to do selective updates. Change the ones that need changing and make sure the primary components are 100% functional. 

Before you make updates, know what your goals are. Are you updating for improvement of looks alone? Or are you doing it to improve efficiency in the kitchen? Perhaps, you are aiming for both? Once you answer these things, you can narrow down the updates that you need. 

Important Kitchen Updates 

Here are several kitchen updates that could surely make a big difference: 

Cabinets: If your cabinets have scratches or chips, you may want to have it refurbished, instead of buying a new set. If the cabinets are still in good condition and if there are no problems as to its integrity, you may want to consider updating the hardware. A simple change in the knobs can give a new look for your cabinets. If the surface is too plain, you may want to try adding some molding to give the whole thing a newer and modern look. 

Countertops: If you do not have one, it is high time that you install one in your kitchen. Having countertops provides additional workspace for you and your family. Countertops need not to be expensive. There are laminates that cost less than 30 dollars per linear foot. Aside from that, you can also purchase rolling islands that can function as a centerpiece in your kitchen, as well as another working space. 

Walls: To brighten the place up, you may want to consider repainting the whole kitchen. This is the cheapest alternative in brightening your kitchen. You can use light tones to set a lighter mood in your kitchen. However, if the paint is still okay, you may want to consider adding backsplash using tiles. There are cheap alternatives to backsplashes and you can mix and match colors. 

Appliances: If some of your appliances are not working fine, opt for repairs. However, if they are near their end of useful years, you may want to consider replacing them. Purchase energy-efficient appliances to save on your utilities expense. On the other hand, if you want to give your kitchen a modern approach, look for stainless steel. They are easier to maintain and they are durable and long lasting. 

Accessories: Try updating your kitchen accessories. Add some towel holders, soap dispensers and other stuff to make tools and equipment more accessible. Change your faucets and purchase those with modern designs. Aside from that, try doing away with the conventional designs of sinks. There are modern geometrical shapes for sinks that you can install. This adds a contemporary touch in the look of your kitchen. 

Choose the right wall tiles

Not just in kitchens and bathrooms, tiles can be used anywhere in the homes, offices or commercial buildings. If you are planning to decorate or renovate an old wall, then tiles are another best option to give a space a completely different, beautiful and unique look. Choosing tiles over plaster or other material gives you advantage of design flexibility, vast color, material choices and of course durability.

There are different kinds of wall tiles in the market to choose from that vary in color, design, and pattern and obviously in cost. You can use decorative wall tiles to highlight a certain wall of the living area, bedroom or your garden. Bordered, inlays, hand painted with traditional and modern designs in bold and light colors are definitely going to take you on a fancy ride.

Be it geometrical shapes, floral, human or animal figures, there is no dearth of innovative design patterns, once go on for wall tiles shopping. There are hundreds of design ideas that you can use to decorate your walls with tiles. Contemporary designer bathroom, kitchen, living or bedroom walls spice up the whole décor. Wall tiles have been popularly used at commercial places also to adorn showrooms, building facades.

Types of Wall tiles

Ceramic Tile: Glazed ceramic tiles with glossy finish come in all colors and various designs. They can be better used at in bathrooms, gardens, pool, or kitchens as they are water proof. Ceramic or porcelain tile offer appealing backsplash in kitchens, or bathroom shower. They are strong and easy-to-maintain.

Mosaic Tile: Mosaic tiles have their color throughout below the tile, thus their color remain same if the tile gets chipped off on surface.

Marble Wall Tiles: Marble wall tiles are durable, strong, look elegant and bring class to the wall.

Glass Wall Tiles: Glass wall tiles can be used on walls to bring the shiny, shimmering effect on the wall. Generally in drawing rooms, bedrooms or bar area they are used to highlight the backdrop. They come in all shapes and colors. The frosted glass and bubble glass wall tiles add special effect to a wall.

Vinyl Wall Tiles: Vinyl wall tiles made of synthetic materials are available in various shapes, colors and designs. They are comparatively cheaper from other counterparts.

How to choose right Wall tiles

Non-vitreous tiles absorb the most water and should be avoided for wet areas like showers, bathtubs and washbasins countertops. Semi-vitreous tiles have low water absorption rate so can used for splash areas. High-density, glazed porcelain tiles are complete water proof, so make you free from any water seeping problem. Mosaic wall tiles are good for small or curved areas as their size is as small as1-2 inch squares. Mosaic tiles are available with or without a moisture-resistant glaze.

Shape and size of wall tiles

Installation of wall tile is basically same as installing floor tile. For flat areas, 12 inches large tiles are good and give an orderly appearance. Wall tiles can be cut to various sizes and shapes. Large pieces installation is easier than small tiles installation. Tiles can be cut neatly with ease in different shapes.

Mosaic for Kitchen Tiles