What is Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height? A kitchen backsplash is typically installed on the wall or ceiling, with taller walls often requiring a higher backsplash.
The material of the backsplash can vary in color and texture, but it’s important to know what type of surface you’re working with before choosing your design.
What are some popular materials for a kitchen backsplash? Tile is one of the most common options that homeowners choose when designing their kitchen. It comes in many shapes, colors, and sizes that allow for any style desired.
Granite is another option that provides a sleek look while also being durable enough to withstand high-traffic areas like kitchens. Other less popular options include stone, marble, and glass mosaics.
Do you know Standard kitchen backsplash height?
The backsplash height can vary depending on you and your home. The backsplash is the area above the countertop and below the cabinets. A typical height is 15 inches, but it can also be shorter or taller.
Standard kitchen backsplash height for a countertop is 32″ above the floor which typically puts it close to 84″ from the floor.
However, the standard kitchen backsplash wall height (from the countertop to the bottom of the backsplash) is typically up to 3/4″ below this. This puts it at around 83 1/2″ from the floor. Anyone sitting on a bar stool will find themselves looking slightly down into their meal. This is a problem.
In this article we’ll show you how to find the appropriate backsplash height for your wall above your countertops, give you some examples of our kitchen designs with various backsplash heights and end with a discussion of how high to raise your bar stools. So let’s get going!
Quick Kitchen Backsplash Height Formulas
The most common way to measure a kitchen or bathroom backsplash is from the top of the countertop (or tub/shower).
But sometimes it might be better to measure from a point slightly below the top of the countertop so that when looking down from a bar stool or two-person table, your eye level matches that of someone seated on the opposite side of the table.
Let’s start by looking at how to measure from the top of your countertop. A kitchen or bathroom backsplash wall that is built into a “wall” of cabinets like this usually matches the height of adjacent upper cabinets which are typically anywhere between 34″-36″ tall.
This means that, if you’re looking for consistency between your horizontal and vertical elevation, you should consider building your backsplash to match these heights (or perhaps 3/4″ below).
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height Formula = Top of Countertops – 3/4″
If you want something different than what standard upper cabinets provide, then you’ll have to measure from the top of the countertop down to where you want your backsplash to end. This provides our second formula.
Custom Kitchen Backsplash Height Formula = Top of Countertops – Desired Height Above Floor or Countertop
For example, let’s say you wanted a 28″ tall backsplash above your countertops. To figure out how high to build it in accordance with both formulas, let’s add them together: 34″ + 3/4″ = 34 1/4″ and 36″ + 3/4″ = 36 1/2″.
That means that you’d begin building your standard kitchen backsplash wall at about 35-1/4″ from the floor (using the Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height Formula) or 35-1/2″ from the floor (using the Custom Kitchen Backsplash Height Formula).
But what if you want your backsplash to protrude above your upper cabinets?
We could measure down from the top of our cabinets in accordance with both formulas, but this usually makes for an awkward distance between where we plan on building our wall and where it meets our upper cabinets.
An easier solution is just to build your standard backsplash wall at its full height above the countertop and then trim it back underneath when you get to that point. Doing so will provide a clean transition no matter how high your wall is above your countertops.
If you want a “floating” backsplash wall that isn’t built into adjacent cabinets, this gets a little bit more difficult to calculate. We can still use the same formulas, but now they only apply to the top half of the wall . This means that your standard backsplash height will be equal to the height above your countertop minus 3/4″ since everything below is being attached to your countertop.
So if we wanted our backsplash wall to come out at 30-1/2″ above our countertops, it would consist of two pieces: one starting at 30-1/2″ and another starting at about 21-3/4″. Our Custom Height formula is simpler: we just subtract the desired height from the total wall height (not including any upper cabinets). For example, let’s say we want a 36″ tall backsplash that protrudes 5″ above our countertop.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height (cre: kitchenmagic)
- Custom Height Formula = Total Wall Height – Desired Height Above Countertop
- Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height (for top half) = 36″ – 3/4″ or about 34-1/4″
- Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height (for the bottom half) = 32-3/4″
And if you wanted to make your countertops higher like in Figure 4, the bottom of your backsplash wall might actually be built on top of your countertop making it more difficult to clean. In this case, you need a slightly different equation that takes the height of your countertops into account:
Custom Height Formula = Total Wall Height – (Top of Countertops – Desired Height Above Countertop)
So now that we know how to figure out the height of our backsplash walls, let’s move on to different styles and material options.
If you’re building a standard backsplash wall with basic materials, the next step is to cut your boards to size.
Use a miter or table saw to make all of your 45° miters at both ends of the tiles if they aren’t already—this just makes for cleaner cuts and less chipping on the edges. Then layout every piece on the floor underneath where it will be mounted directly onto your countertop. If you are using bullnose pieces, secure them in place by taping down their top edge onto your subfloor with blue painter’s tape.
Now mix up your thin-set according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to all of the studs below. For larger installations with multiple seams, the most common method is to back butter (apply a thin-set to both sides of) all of your pieces. Then place them into position and press down firmly on each corner before moving on to the next.
First, apply a 3/8″ bead of thin-set directly onto the studs making sure that they’re clean and free from debris.
Then back butter your first few tiles and lay them up against side A as you normally would without pressing any edges into the mortar yet.
Next, take a 1/8″ x 1-1/4″ notched trowel and spread a thin set across side B. Apply thin-set on the back of each piece to be installed next and place it onto side B. Now press down all edges firmly before moving onto your next seam) Afterward, use a metal trowel or your notched trowel (depending on what type of tile you’re using) to press down each edge one at a time until the entire wall is complete. Although this method might take just a bit more patience since there are many steps, I believe that it’s well worth avoiding dealing with any exposed edges.
If you have larger tiles that leave wider grout joints, then the process is similar except for having squeeze in spacers between each tile to keep them properly aligned. Just be sure to leave enough room for mortar at the top and bottom of each piece so that it doesn’t squeeze out when you press down on it.
All that’s left now is applying grout
—if your tiles are different sizes, apply a thin-set first to all but the largest pieces then lay them up into position accordingly before setting them into thicker bedding material.
Then clean off any excess mud with a damp sponge or rag before wiping down your counters to remove any residue. Lastly, wait about 4 hours for your grout to dry completely before lightly buffing away any haze with a dry towel.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Now that your backsplash is complete, you can drill in the backsplash support screws. I usually choose to countersink mine so that they blend in with the tile but if you want them to be flush with your countertop surface, just make sure to drill deep enough so that they don’t poke out through your countertop material.
If you’re not planning on adding any supports below like this then simply screw it into place once all of your tiles are laid up. Now let’s talk about applying a full-length backsplash panel to the bottom half of our wall.
First, measure the length of your backsplash wall section and cut out a full-length thin strip of 1/4″ plywood that will fit between your studs.
Next, apply a thin-set to its backside with a notched trowel. Install it into place using a thin-set or construction adhesive then secure it with black screws or nails approximately every 6″ along each side. For tile spacers, I like to use thin plastic disks similar to washers but they can be difficult to find.
So an alternative is to simply cut strips of thin cardboard instead of just making sure that you pencil in some guidelines beforehand so that they’ll be flush with both sides before cutting them out.
Now that the panel is installed, you can mark out your tile layout starting from the topmost edge. Remember to leave a 1/8″ gap between each piece for mortar and grout.
Keep in mind that since you’re working upside down, measure each piece twice to ensure it’s accurate before cutting them out because once they’re cut it’s much more difficult to make any changes. Then butter the backs of your tiles along with their spacers before installing them into position one at a time.
You’ll also need to use face-mounted tiles for this section as well to keep everything properly aligned. Once all pieces are laid out though, be sure to clean off any excess mortar before it dries to avoid having it stick to the tile.
There are many ways that you can finish off your backsplash so let’s talk about some of them now.
For example, if you want a more traditional look, then consider using the same type of tiles throughout for continuity, and be sure to seal all grout lines with a high-quality grout sealer. I also like the idea of painting these kinds of walls with various colors or even faux paint effects such as metallic speckling.
These types of finishes not only add additional color but can also be very durable in comparison to painted drywall which will chip and flake over time. Be sure however that whatever method you choose, that it’s one that you’re willing to commit to for the long haul because tile is not something that can be changed or removed once sealed in place.
Another way of installing tile without grout lines is by using 1/8″ thick edge-mounted panels. These are very thin versions of full-length backsplashes so they won’t cover up your wall outlets and light switches but remember to always use face tiles over them for aesthetic appeal.
Edge tiles are typically secured with construction adhesive which also makes it easier when removing them in case you ever want to swap out certain walls or even move into a new house altogether.
The downside, however, is that this method does require more precision when cutting out your pieces because if they’re not perfectly square or straight, then your finished wall will look crooked.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height (cre: houzz)
What material should kitchen backsplash be made?
Most kitchens have a backsplash made of ceramic tile. This can be good because it will not get wet and is inexpensive.
The downside is that you need to know how to install it. Natural stone is better for people who do not want the backsplash in their kitchen, but it may be expensive or difficult to find.
Kitchen Backsplash Material Options
There are many options for kitchen backsplash material, but if you’re looking to save money or give your kitchen a spectacular look, then you should probably consider glass tile.
The beauty of a glass backsplash is undeniable; it will make any kitchen sparkle and shine.
Glass tiles can come in various sizes and colors, so there’s no reason why the whole wall behind the stove (minus the vent hood) couldn’t be made out of them.
I would recommend something translucent enough to let light through rather than completely opaque colored tiles because that might not allow enough light into the room.
Glass Tile Kitchen Backsplashes
One thing about glass backsplashes that have prevented homeowners from installing them is the fear of breakage.
For even tempered glass, you would need to drop a hammer on it at least five times to make it shatter, and that’s only if you hit it in exactly the right spot.
But even if a kitchen backsplash were to crack (which isn’t very common), you could remove and replace just that tile without having to redo an entire section like you would with regular tiles.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
Kitchens are usually where we spend most of our time; besides sleeping, they’re probably one of the places we visit more than any other room in the house.
A lot goes into designing a kitchen because not only do we want it to look great, but we want it to function properly. One of the areas which often gets overlooked when designing a kitchen is the backsplash, but I think that’s because most homeowners don’t really know what material would work best for their kitchens.
Before we get into different kitchen backsplash material options, let’s go over some of the things you should consider when choosing an area rug.
Whatever type of flooring your kitchen has (tile, hardwood, or vinyl) will determine how well it can hold up against wear and tear.
If you have tile in your kitchen, then finding something durable enough to withstand spills and foot traffic will be key. If you want to be able to keep your floor looking new for longer, then you should consider carpet.
If the tile is not sealed and has begun to get dull or stained, then you could always remove and replace your tiles and clean the floor with a commercial cleaner (something like Peroxide) which will also make it appear brighter.
However, if you have hardwood in your kitchen and you choose to install an area rug over top of it, then it would be wise to invest in wood furniture pads so that your table won’t scratch up the flooring.
There are many options for kitchen backsplash material, but one of the most popular ones is glass tile.
The beauty of glass backsplash is undeniable; it will make any kitchen sparkle and shine. Glass tiles can come in various sizes and colors, so there’s no reason why the whole wall behind the stove (minus the vent hood) couldn’t be made out of them.
I would recommend something translucent enough to let light through rather than completely opaque colored tiles because that might not allow enough light into the room.
One thing about glass backsplashes that have prevented homeowners from installing them is the fear of breakage.
For even tempered glass, you would need to drop a hammer on it at least five times to make it shatter, and that’s only if you hit it in exactly the right spot.
But even if a kitchen backsplash were to crack (which isn’t very common), you could remove and replace just that tile without having to redo an entire section like you would with regular tiles.
Another popular kitchen backsplash is a material called ceramic carton.
This type of tile is a good option for people who can’t afford to replace their entire backsplashes, but it’s also great for renters who don’t want the commitment of permanent installation.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height (cre: marble)
Generally speaking, there are three types of materials homeowners will use when installing a kitchen backsplash:
1) Tile
Tile is by far one of the most durable options you can choose from while still looking beautiful in your kitchen.
There are so many different tiles available on the market these days; some options include travertine, glass, marble, and slate. Tile is good because it will not only hold up well to the elements of a busy kitchen, but it’s also easy to clean and maintain
2) Ceramic Carton
This type of material won’t come as a surprise to anyone who has ever had a shower wall in their bathroom. These types of backsplashes are usually made from porcelain or ceramic and will last for many years without too many problems.
The downside with this option is that you can’t cut it on an angle like you would with tile, so if you were trying to make your backsplash fit into a curved corner between two walls, then you might have trouble making those cuts neat and straight.
3) Glass
When it comes to durability, glass is tougher than stone and tile, but not as good as ceramic cartons. It’s also a bit more expensive and harder to install because of its fragility and weight (you would need someone who knows exactly what they’re doing to lay out the pieces).
But if you choose this option, then you will most likely be able to see your reflection in them when they are clean, which can be pretty cool.
There are so many different options for choosing kitchen backsplashes that sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what type of material will work best for you.
These three materials seem like the most common ones homeowners choose because each has its own set of distinct benefits and disadvantages.
Keep in mind that durability is one of the main factors you should consider when installing your backsplash because it’s going to be one of the most used rooms in the house, so everything from microwaves to hot pans will be flying around back there.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Should the backsplash be the same as the countertop?
It can be tempting to choose the same materials and colors for your countertop and backsplash, but this option can look uninspired. Ultimately, selecting a well-coordinated backsplash and countertop is essential to the design of your kitchen. It’s usually best to select your countertops first.
A backsplash is a great way to add interest and color to your kitchen without dramatically changing the overall style of your room or spending a ton of money on big changes that you’ll probably tire of in a few years anyway (at least if we’re talking about serious renovations).
Using the same material for both surfaces is just one way to go – and it’s important not to assume that you HAVE to do this if it doesn’t look right in your kitchen (there are other options such as subway tiles, textured glass, etc).
But there may be times when using a similar color or tile to those on your countertop can really make sense. After all, this is where you put plates and glasses away at the end of every day – why should it be boring? If you’re going for a restaurant-style design (with little backsplash), then use high-gloss tiles with metallic or matte finishes.
If you’re going for a really eclectic look with lots of colors and textures, choose black or colored tiles to make sure they don’t clash with the color scheme of your kitchen design (even if the walls are painted in such a way as to change color depending on how the light hits them). If you use white tiles, they will always blend seamlessly with everything else – and that might not be what you want.
If you don’t have a backsplash behind your stove or sink, then this is another opportunity where it makes sense to choose the same tiles as those on your countertop. Because they’re in such high traffic areas, these spaces will get more wear and tear than anywhere else in the room
For classic kitchen designs with clean lines, select tiles that are a little smaller than those used for the countertops (or set them at a slight angle).
Just because they’re behind the stove doesn’t mean that they should be unusable.
If you use the same tiles behind your stove as those on the countertop, then make sure that they don’t have any decorative details or trim around the edges (unless this is part of your overall design). You can also go for a smaller size with these tiles compared to those on the walls – after all, it’s smart to give yourself more working space!
Create an interesting effect by using different materials in one room – for example, using rough stone for the countertops and subway tiles or glass blocks for your backsplash. For more of an eclectic kitchen design, try mixing natural materials like stone with man-made ones such as different shapes, colors, and textures of ceramic tiles. The main thing is that it looks good to you!
If you’re willing to commit to a larger backsplash area (which generally makes sense if you want something other than white), then be sure to take into account how much grout will show once everything is in place – especially if you’ll be using the same color throughout. And if you mix different tile sizes, shapes, or designs on your kitchen walls, then the same thing goes for these elements.
If using the same tiles behind your stove and counters is too boring (or repetitive) for you, then there are plenty of other options to choose from. You don’t have to give up on this great design idea just because it isn’t exactly what you had in mind.
Another way to go is to use high gloss white tiles (yes, even for an all-white kitchen) behind your countertops and backsplash, but to use a different color for the floor.
This way you can unify the design style with the same type of finish on each wall without having to do two lots of grouting!
If you’re looking for some more ways to break up large surfaces of tiling, then check out these pictures from the Houzz website. No matter what size tiles you choose or whether they are laid out in straight or random patterns – there is always a solution that will work perfectly in any type of kitchen design!
Mixing different shapes and sizes of tiles is a classic way to give your kitchen walls more interest – and also offers you more flexibility in terms of how you use the space behind your stove and sink (or even above the cabinets!). Just because it’s simple doesn’t mean that it can’t be beautiful!
Don’t forget that there are still plenty of other materials out there besides ceramic, meaning that you can mix tiles and other surfaces such as stainless steel and even glass in your backsplash design.
Even if you only have a small area of tiles behind your stove and sink, you can still maintain continuity in terms of color and design style by using subway tiles or another similar type of surface across the wall. This is also a great way to add color to what might otherwise be an all-white space.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height (cre: hunker)
What is the most popular backsplash?
Granite has been the most popular backsplash choice for many years now. However, there’s a new contender in town: tile. According to 2013 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) survey results, nearly 22% of respondents said tile was their most desired material for kitchen backsplashes. Granite came in at number two with 19%.
With granite, marble and quartz all vying for kitchen counter space, it’s no wonder that these hard stones are also becoming popular as backsplashes.
Not only do they look sleek and sophisticated with any color palette, but durability is an added bonus. Like floors and countertops, backsplashes can take a serious beating due to cooking mishaps like dropping or shattering dishes or boiling water spills.
While tile is a more popular choice for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes, it’s important to note that the same concerns about breakage and maintenance come into play.
When grouting tiles, you’re not only covering up the area between tiles of different colors but also creating a space where dirt can become trapped.
This raises some real issues over time because the minerals from cleansers and hard water can build up in these crevices, causing discoloration or weakened adhesive bondings so the grout falls out completely.
While tile is extremely durable and scratch-resistant, it might be better suited for areas of lower traffic like laundry rooms than high traffic kitchens where pots and pans are boiling over on this surface daily.
But wait – what about glass?
The glass comes in a variety of styles – from thin, delicate pieces to thicker, textured panels. It’s also one of the most versatile materials you can choose for your backsplashes because it pairs well with almost any style or color palette.
Glass is resilient and durable enough for high traffic areas but still beautiful enough to highlight any type or design of the cabinetry. Plus, since glass tiles come in a huge range of colors and finishes, they’re easy to customize to fit into even the most eclectic kitchen decorating schemes.
Glass offers some other important benefits that deserve consideration:
Resists stains from oil, grease, and coffee -Scratch and heat resistant up to 550 degrees -Doesn’t require sealing like natural stone surfaces (which can get pricey)
Even more versatile than ceramic, stone, and porcelain tile -Can be used on countertops, showers, and floors as well as walls
Easy to clean What’s not to love about glass? Here’s a link to some of our favorite examples:
With so many choices available for backsplashes these days, it really comes down to one question: what do you like? Whether you go with traditional granite or marble tiles or opt for more modern glass designs, the most important thing is that you choose something that makes your heart sing.
However, the lack of beautiful inspiration for those who prefer something else or can’t invest in a glass design right now brought me to research and dig out these great ideas about metal (tiles and panels) and natural stone (including quartzite) tile backsplashes.
The first three designs are from online sources while those that follow illustrate actual examples of kitchens with interesting backsplashes found during my house hunting trips – as such, please excuse their usual state as provided by realtors! Kudos to those owners who let us see their homes under construction as it brings you one step closer to your dream.
Backsplashes in stone, metal, or glass can make or break (yup!) the overall look of your kitchen.
They can be very personal choices that reflect your personality and interests so it’s completely up to you what to choose. That said, these examples will help you explore the many possibilities that are out there. Let me know your thoughts.
Tiles in dark gray metallic with a 3D effect to them make a very cool backsplash – also from an online source. The beauty of this material is that it can go well with any color palette as demonstrated by those who chose contrasting cabinets and walls.
Now if only I had those choices when choosing my own appliances and granite countertops
I absolutely adore this amazing idea:
covering just part of the wall behind the stove with tiles for a more interesting look – and to add drama and visual interest. The rest of the wall is covered in paint to make this design even more affordable. Photo by Dell Williams
Metal tiles create a gorgeous canvas for an array of kitchen items – from vases with fruits and vegetables to cookbooks, food processors, and mixer jars.
What is a standard backsplash height?
A backsplash is not just a decorative wall that separates the kitchen from the rest of your home. It’s an integral part of design, functionality, and style. The standard height for most modern homes is 18 inches but there are many options to choose from when looking at what you want in your space.
For the bathroom, the standard height for a backsplash is usually 3-4 inches. You can go higher if you want to make your home feel more elegant and custom.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
FAQs about bathroom backsplash?
Question:
I’m building a shower and am trying to determine the standard bathtub backsplash height. I’ve recently come across several sources that provide conflicting information, which is frustrating. One source claims the minimum should be 36 inches above the floor of the tub.
Another claims 30 inches but specifies this will work for children or short adults. Another suggests 42 inches but does not explain who this will work for. Finally, another suggests that there is no standard height and it “depends on the user.”
Answer:
There are no national building codes for bathroom tile backsplashes, nor are there any industry standards or recommendations for minimum or maximum heights.
The lack of a standard, however, should not be taken to mean that guidelines don’t exist. In fact, there are several standards regarding bathroom tile backsplashes and wall heights.
First, let’s start with the basics: the typical height of the finished floor in a bathroom is going to be around 34 inches above the finished grade outside of the house.
That is because bathrooms typically have ceramic or vinyl floor tiles and they tend to be very close to 1 inch thick (12 inches is normal). So if we add up 34″ (finished floor) + 12″ (tile thickness) = 46″. Now we need some additional headroom for comfort and safety:
- Bathtub: Minimum of 60″ from the corner where the tub meets the wall to finished floor.
- Shower: Minimum of 72″ from the corner where the wall meets shower to finished floor.
This is a total of at least 36″ more added on top of the tile thickness, which equals 60 + 12 + 36 = 102″. This makes sense as it’s 2 feet higher than the typical finished floor height for a bathroom. Now we’re ready to consider backsplash heights:
Backsplash Height:
The minimum distance between where your face will be and where the vertical surface behind you ends is 4 inches. That means if your tile elevation (height) is lower than 80″, you can probably get away with just having standard 1/2″ x 3/4″ backer board around the entire room and then tile directly onto it.
If you have a higher than 80″ wall, then either use some sort of paneling as your vertical surface again and tile to that (remember: the backer board is not structural!) or you can simply use some 3/8″ cement board over the entire room and attach 1/4″ cement board to the 3/8″. Then you use a thin-set and standard 5/16″ glass-reinforced tile backer.
Wall Height: 80 inches from the finished floor to ceiling is the maximum for this type of construction. And note that we’re talking about total wall height here, including any baseboard trim if your house has such things! So once again… no more than 80″.
And there you have it: the maximum height for a backsplash in a bathroom is 80″ and the minimum distance between your face and the nearest vertical surface behind you (the tub enclosure, toilet partition or wall) is 4″.
With these numbers in mind, you can make decisions about what type of backer board to use (3/8″ cement board vs 1/2″ cement board), whether to include paneling around the room and where to locate light switches.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Do bathrooms need a backsplash?
A backsplash is a wall feature above countertops and sinks, often made of tile. It’s designed to protect the wall from water and other liquids that could spill over during meal preparation or cleanup.
A backsplash can also add an element of visual interest to the room.
Think about where you might be willing to splurge when choosing tiles for your backsplash.
There are several reasons why one may not want a backsplash in their bathroom:
Water can damage drywall and paint if it seeps through between the sink or vanity and the tile and onto the wall behind it. If you don’t mind doing some simple repairs every once in a while, this likely won’t be too big of a problem.
Tile that’s used in the kitchen is usually around 4 times more durable than most tiles made specifically for use in bathrooms – it can hold up to water damage much better, but it will still have to be replaced eventually over time if exposed over a long period of time.
However, this replacement may need to happen more often depending on how often you clean your backsplash or if there are any children in the house.
If there are no children and you use your bathroom regularly, once every 5-10 years could be enough with proper cleaning methods since tile is fairly easy to clean.
However, families with young children should consider replacing their bathtub or shower surround tiles approximately every 2-3 years if they want to avoid any accidents.
Bathroom tiles are not recommended for use near a bathtub or shower area because they can become slippery if they’re exposed to water often.
They will also collect mold over time. Not only that, but the grout between tiles in an area that is constantly exposed to water can begin to mold as well.
If this happens, mildew and bacteria could be passed onto other surfaces in your house since you’ll likely be touching them with wet hands.
This becomes even more of a problem if there’s any flooding occurring, especially if it floods on a regular basis. You’ll want to replace all bathroom floor tiles immediately after plumbing issues occur so the mold doesn’t spread throughout your entire home!
There are many different types of bathroom tiles, so be sure to choose one that won’t damage quickly if exposed to water.
Bathroom tile is usually not as durable as kitchen tile and can be porous. It will likely show signs of wear and tear much faster than kitchen tiles because it’s used less often and the grout becomes dirty over time.
This could lead to buying new bathroom floor and wall tiles more often than you’d like – possibly every 1-3 years depending on your chosen grout color/material (more porous=faster deterioration).
If this sounds too expensive or time-consuming for you, consider choosing a material other than tile for your counters and backsplash such as marble, granite, or tile board instead as they are much easier to clean and will last longer.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
How tall is a full-height backsplash?
Perhaps you have a homeowner that loves to cook and wants a full-height backsplash in their kitchen. Or maybe it’s just the right height for your countertops or cabinets.
But how tall is a full-height backsplash? How much will it stand out from the countertops?
This little guide should help clear up any questions about what is included when talking about “full-height” backslashes (see also: article on what is a backsplash). The basic definition of a full-height backsplash is one that sits above the upper cabinetry crown molding.
The standard dimension listed below means it would sit at halfway between an installed countertop and the uppermost cabinetry (the crown molding).
This can be useful when you are doing a backsplash installation and the distance between your cabinetry and countertop is unchangeable. The standard dimension listed below assumes that there is 1/2″ space for the caulk bead, also known as the mortar bed under the tiles.
3/4 Height Backsplash Standard Dimensions:
12″ high backsplash x 24″ wide = 288 sq inches of wall surface to tile
1/8 vertical grout line + 1/8 mortar bed (caulk) + 1/4 tile backer board + approx 3-5 full tiles wide = 7.5″ total thickness from countertop to back of tile*
Standard 12×24 ceramic or porcelain tiles are usually 3/8″ thick, so you can see how this backsplash will easily stand out 1/2″ from the countertop and cabinet in most cases.
*Please note: Some tile thicknesses vary and in these cases, we would recommend adding an additional 1/4″ to your total thickness when doing a full-height backsplash installation.
Full Height Backsplash Standard Dimensions:
24″ high x 24″ wide = 576 sq inches of wall surface to tile
1/8 vertical grout line + 1/8 mortar bed (caulk) + 1x full tile backer board + approx 3-5 full tiles wide = 15″ total thickness from countertop to back of a tile
Standard 12×24 ceramic or porcelain tiles are 3/8″ thick, so you can see how this backsplash will easily stand out 1″ from the countertop and cabinet in most cases.
Some tile thicknesses vary and in these cases, we would recommend adding an additional 1/4″ to your total thickness when doing a full-height backsplash installation.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Are bathroom backsplashes outdated?
A bathroom backsplash is a good decorating idea when you want to add color and pattern to an otherwise plain-looking wall. You can give your bathroom a whole new look when you install the right material and in the right pattern and colors.
They come in many patterns and colors like:
Travertine marble granite limestone glass mosaic metal wallpaper vinyl leather wallpaper stone tile ceramic wood stained glass elegant beveled mirror copper slate metallic paint satin nickel bronze glossy paint espresso oil rubbed bronze matte black gold silver faucets mirrors stainless steel rustic pewter polished nickel light almond ice grey white
Bathroom backsplashes are usually installed under the vanity countertop or above the top of the toilet, sometimes on both walls of the bathroom.
The idea of adding a backsplash is to create some kind of decoration, which will both protect the wall from water splashes and make the room look more inviting.
Bathroom backsplashes are usually small in size so they don’t interfere with the overall décor design of your bathroom. You can choose to color coordinate it with any other elements or you can go for something completely different.
Usually, bathrooms are already decorated with tiles on the floor and around the bathtub/shower area, but there is nothing wrong with changing your mind about it. You can find many interesting designs that will suit your taste not only for colors but also for textures and shapes of material used like:
granite marble travertine limestone glass metallic wallpaper decorative metal vinyl leather beveled mirror stained glass stone tile wood ceramic paint painted wallpaper stainless steel satin nickel bronze matte black gold faucets paint oil rubbed bronze espresso polished nickel light almond ice grey white
Bathroom backsplashes are made of many different materials.
Some of them include glass mosaic, marble granite, travertine limestone, metal wallpaper, vinyl leather, beveled mirror, stone tile, stained glass, ceramic wood, paint, painted wallpaper, stainless steel, satin nickel, bronze matte, black gold, faucets oil, rubbed bronze, espresso, polished nickel, light almond, ice, grey-white.
There are many interesting designs that are created to fit any kind of bathroom décor. You can choose from hundreds of different styles and colors that will not only look good but will also protect the walls from splashes of water.
Installing a backsplash means improving both, your bathroom design and how it looks, so don’t hesitate. If you have some doubts or you need help designing your new bathroom backsplash just contact us! We’ll assist you with pleasure!
How much space should be between Cabinet and backsplash??
The area between the kitchen’s backsplash and the cabinets is around 12 to 18 inches. One or two sheets of copper will be enough for that space.
You can use either acid-etched copper, which looks like wood, or textured copper, which looks like bricks. Installing them is easy if you use a construction adhesive.
How do you fill the gap between backsplash and countertop?
If you make the gap smaller, you can fill it with silicone or acrylic. If it is larger, use foam first to support the caulk.
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Are our peel and stick tiles waterproof??
Actually, no. But they are water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about moisture problems on the subfloor or wall areas.
This is more than can be said for ceramic tile which has a high risk of cracking when exposed to even slight moisture.
If your tiles are installed over cement backer board, then you’re good as far as waterproofing goes because that product is totally impervious to water penetration.
Wherever there’s enough power in the air – including places like showers and spas – these tiles will maintain their color vibrancy and surface luster for decades. Just make sure you keep them clean with regular vacuuming and damp mopping if necessary.
It won’t hurt to use a mop with some soapy or sanitizing solution too, and if you want to go the extra mile, we also suggest using a bucket of warm vinegar water so your floors look sparkling clean and new for longer.
Can you use Gorilla Glue on peel and stick tiles??
The short answer is no. While Gorilla Glue is very strong and adhesive, peel and stick tiles are not designed to be glued down at all.
They come with a very sticky back tape that allows them to adhere easily to the floor without glue.
If you try to use Gorilla Glue on these tiles, you’ll find that it just doesn’t work and will likely damage the tile in the process.
We recommend not using any type of glue when installing your peel & stick tiles unless it comes with the product itself or is specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
Why is there a gap under kitchen cabinets??
This is a question we often get asked. The simple answer to the question is that it’s there for storage purposes. It isn’t meant to be there, you can’t use it, and yes cabinets are measured without the gap included.
However, if every cabinet was installed flush against the wall (sitting on top of the countertop) then what would happen when someone gets really creative with their kitchen design?
People stack appliances under cabinets!
Yes, they do! The gap allows for this extra space which also keeps the lines of your cabinetry clean and true. So before you go sticking something into that little square hole ask yourself whether or not it will affect how it looks or how well it functions. If so keep looking, but if not, go find yourself a rubber ducky.
8 things to do with that space under your cabinets:
-Keep brooms and mops handy.
-Add an extra cutting board for quick food preparation.
-Store all those Keurig cups you have!
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
How much is it for a shower backsplash??
A shower backsplash is one of the ways to update your bathroom without having to change any other fixtures. Also, if you are looking for a way to upgrade that shower stall, then this might be the perfect place to start!
What they do know is that they want us to install something on their wall or around their tub. Many expect it to fit within their budget but aren’t too sure exactly how much tiles are going to cost them. Like everything else in life, there are different levels of quality when it comes to tiling around your tub or in your shower stall.
There are also options when it comes to the process of installation. So, what makes up the total price? Well, let us tell you…
1) Tiles
– The tiles that you choose for your project will determine how much you will be paying in terms of cost. Not only do you have different choices in textures and colors but also in thickness. Tile that is thinner than 1/4 inch can be referred to as “budget-friendly”.
Usually, these types of tiles are found at local hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowes. While they might look great on paper, keep in mind that there can be a big difference between budget-friendly prices and quality! These types of tiles usually take more time to install and they can crack more easily.
Thicker tiles that are more durable usually cost a little bit more but will be worth it in the long run. Usually, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1.00 and upper tile.
2) Labor
– Believe it or not, this is actually one of the biggest factors when it comes to the total cost of your project! Installing tiles right “against” your tub/shower wall with no drywall in between will only take about 3 hours max for an experienced installer.
The next price jump might surprise you! Installing tiles on both sides of your walls, whether inside or outside of your shower stall/tub area can increase labor time almost double!
Throw some tile up on the ceiling and on the floor of your shower stall and you can add another hour or two to that initial estimation. The more time involved in a project, the longer it will take to complete!
3) A grout joint
– Also known as a filler strip, this is the thin line that separates each individual tile. If you choose not to have a grout joint then be prepared for a big cost difference. For one, smaller tiles without a space in-between them will mean more time installing AND less money!
Grout joints only need to be filled once per year so they aren’t too much of an inconvenience especially when considering how much more it costs with no grout joints.
4) Removal of the old tiles
– If you are looking for full removal of your current tile then be prepared to pay more. We charge an hourly rate of $45.00 per installer involved in the job which includes the time required to remove any adhesive that has been previously used.
If there is no existing adhesive on the walls, then we still require our installers to put some new adhesive on before they install your new tile. Our adhesive costs us around $25.00 per tube and it usually takes 1 tube for every 4-5 square feet depending on how thick it is applied!
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
5) Grout or pre-mixed thin-set mortar
– You can expect to pay anywhere from $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot on this part of the project.
While you can grout the tiles yourself, not everyone has the time or patience to do so correctly.
Grout is usually applied with a trowel around your tiles and then later scraped away for a cleaner look.
A thin layer of mortar or “mud” is required between each tile as well in order to make sure there are no gaps. Some companies use only premixed thin-set mortars which are ready to use right out of their respective buckets. Mixing it ourselves would cause us to lose more money on labor costs!
6) Miscellaneous fees
– If you have any specific cuts that need to be made then be prepared for some additional costs. We can cut almost any sized hole or irregularly shaped tiles with our diamond blade wet saw.
If you are looking for specific cuts then that might increase the time which is required to complete this job, meaning more money out of your pocket!
7) Tile border
– Not everyone has a tile border around their shower stall but if you do require one then be prepared to pay about $1.00 per linear foot on top of your total cost.
Border tiles are usually 1/2″ by 1/2″ and go along the edge of your walls where your new tiles start and end. Usually installed at an angle, it protects the wall from water damage caused by splashing onto the edges while showering.
8) Extra work needed
– As mentioned above, there might be some additional costs required if you have any specific requests such as your tiles needing to be cut in a specific way. If you add more tiles than originally planned (which would add more time) then naturally this will cost more money.
There are many other factors out of our control when it comes to pricing which might affect the final price of your project. For example, Your tile choice and how much material we need to complete the job. Tile thickness and adhesive also play a big role in total costs!
9) Concrete surfaces
– This is for cement boarders only; we do not install traditional concrete tiles or “cement” tiles at some companies. These types of tiles require certain adhesives that cannot be applied under moisture.
If you are looking into having these types of tiles then be prepared to pay more for both material and installation costs!
10) Tile color
– This might seem like a no-brainer, but it affects the final price if there are any changes made. Colors are represented by numbers on small pieces of paper called “Dye Lots”. Each dye lot varies slightly from the next which means that two tiles could look exactly alike side-by-side but when placed together they might not match perfectly.
For this reason, some companies need around 1 week’s lead time whenever color changes need to be made in order to ensure that your project doesn’t stall due to a lack of tile availability.
All in, keeping in mind these 10 things will help you stay on track and make smart decisions about any future renovations and/or landscaping!
Standard Kitchen Backsplash Height
Can you Epoxy a shower or? bathtub surround?
You sure can! It actually protects the tub from water and provides a smooth surface so it is easier to clean.
I’m going to offer you a similar alternative:
Mix up some FlexCoat and paint it on your bare fiberglass bathtub surround after you clean the dust and oil off the surface and let it dry well. Let’s face it, whether we like this product or not, Flex Coat is what Princess uses on their over-the-top luxury ships because it sticks to everything but doesn’t peel or crack.
It has titanium dioxide mixed in to give it a white tint and add durability. It’s not perfect, but it’s about as close as you’re going to get in a bathtub surround coating.
If the reason your shower is peeling or cracking is because of moisture damage from mildew or mold growth, put a light coat of Kilz on the walls first before you apply FlexCoat since this paint will seal in moisture, unlike other paints which may simply repel water.
I have never used that product but understand that it works well for this purpose. Any good quality oil-based enamel would work too if you don’t mind making another trip to the store later when you need to touch up a scratch or chip later on down the road!
If your tub has a metal grate it needs to be replaced.
You can epoxy that into place easily enough but you may need to attach the plastic feet of the tub which have been designed over decades just for this purpose – both allow water to escape from under the tub and avoid damage from rusting and rotting out your flooring and sub-floor below.
(These same screws may be used as part of the drain assembly, so make sure anything coming with your new bathtub or installation kit matches up!)
If you live in a tiny house, an RV, or any other space where real estate is tight, you don’t really want such a large bathtub anyway since they aren’t very comfortable to bathe in except for kids!
A cheap shower curtain rod, or better yet a tension-mounted rod which you can attach inside the tub with epoxy instead of drilling holes in the tub wall will do just fine.
If you’re worried about your fiberglass surround getting water-damaged, by all means, set up some kind of drain and overflow system that will allow any standing water to be drained away into the sewer or yard rather than setting on these surfaces for hours at a time.
Conclusion
The height of the backsplash is often determined by what can be seen from a seated position, but this isn’t always the case. Choosing materials that are easy to clean and maintain will make your decision easier in the long run. Be sure to measure before you buy.
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