This article is sponsored by, America's Floor Source

You can easily add warmth and style to any kitchen with a custom backsplash. The products used for backsplashes are oftentimes the same products used for floors, but because a backsplash is exposed to less wear and tear, there are more options available to consumers today.

Backsplash Styles

• Granite: Because it is less resistant to scratches and staining than any of the other natural stone options, granite is an ideal choice for your kitchen. It is also available in a variety of colors so you can easily choose the color of granite that will match your style and décor.
• Sandstone: Composed of loose grains of quartz sand, sandstone will give your kitchen a timeless, classic look. Sandstone is hypoallergenic, allergen and bacteria resistant.
• Limestone: Soft and porous, limestone is very neutral in color but provides texture and warmth to any kitchen.
• Travertine: Travertine, a member of the limestone family, shares some of the same qualities as limestone. However, Travertine has visible pores that can either be filled in with cement or resin – or left unfilled for a textured surface.
• Marble: Marble is soft and scratches easily. It is also very porous and absorbs grease and dirt. Because of these qualities, it is not recommended for use in kitchens.
• Slate: Because slate is heat and water resistant, it is ideal for backsplashes. This natural stone has a rustic, colorful appearance.
• Ceramic: There are two types of ceramic tiles available – glazed and unglazed.
• Glazed Ceramic: Offering better stain resistance than unglazed tiles, glazed tiles are coated with glass-forming minerals and ceramic stains.
• Unglazed Ceramic: Though hard and dense, unglazed ceramic does not offer much protection against stains.
• Porcelain: Porcelain, also available in glazed or unglazed, is the hardest and densest tile available today. It is a non-porous, scratch resistant stone with a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less.
• Glass: Glass tiles are often small mosaics; however glass tiles come in larger sizes, too. In fact, one of the most popular choices for backsplashes today are subway tiles – which normally measure 3”x6”.

Sizes, Shapes and Styles

Backsplash tiles are manufactured in sizes ranging from one-inch to twenty-four inches and come in a variety of shapes such as rectangles, octagons, squares and more – allowing you to give your kitchen a completely customized look.

Gaining popularity as a backsplash, are mosaic tiles. These small tiles are usually 2”X2” or smaller in size, mesh backed and available in natural stone, ceramic or glass finishes.

Decorative Design Options

When creating the design for your kitchen backsplash, don’t forget about the space between your range hood and stovetop. Here you can combine tiles to create an eye-catching design – adding style and sophistication to your kitchen.

With all of the types of backsplash tiles available today, the design possibilities are endless! Don’t forget to have fun and be creative!