A common question asked by homeowners who are remodeling the kitchen is: “To backsplash or not to backsplash?”

Does it add function, style and design, or does it not?

Most people vote “yes,” so they decide to use that space to make a statement.

The process is simple. Here’s how it goes:

Options for a new backsplash are endless, so let’s start with the material. Common options include glass, ceramic, granite or quartz, natural stone, metal, chalk paint and wood.

Now that you’ve made that selection, the hard work is done. The rest involves how and where you want to bring that material into your space. Determine the following:

  • Wall space to cover (total length by width)
  • Style and design pattern
  • Color
  • Texture

Once you decide on the amount of wall space to cover, mark it, measure it and calculate the square footage. That tells you how much material you will need.

Keep that square footage figure in mind when selecting the style and type of material you have chosen.

Let’s say you choose glass. Your style choices range from a sheet of clear glass over a decorative wallpaper to frosted, leaded, opaque or brightly colored sheets of glass.

Glass also comes in a wide selection of glass tile in every conceivable color, pattern, shape and texture. Ultimately, the glass style you choose for your backsplash will reflect your own personal design aesthetic.

With an almost infinite array of choices, you will have no trouble finding a style that is right for you and for your space. Explore your options. Your local tile specialty store is a good place to start so that you see and feel the possible selections.

Kitchens can be transformed from beautiful yet simple to simply beautiful by adding a backsplash that brings style and color to the room. This can be done in a short time and on a reasonable budget.

Sharon Loccisano is a sales designer and commercial sales professional at Prestige Stone Inc.