Choosing the perfect backsplash to pair with your new quartz countertops can seem like a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to consider factors like color, texture, durability, and ease of maintenance. Follow this comprehensive guide to pick the ideal backsplash for your quartz countertops.
Measure the Space and Visualize the Design
Before selecting any materials, take detailed measurements of the backsplash area and sketch out your design plan. Note the exact dimensions, including windows, corners, and angles. This allows you to calculate the square footage and purchase the right amount of tile or panels. It also helps envision how different backsplash styles will look in the space.
Hold actual material samples up to the countertop to see how the colors and patterns complement each other. Quartz has veins and speckles, so you want a backsplash that enhances, not competes with the countertop’s beauty.
Choose a Color and Style
One of the biggest backsplash considerations is which color best matches or contrasts with your quartz hue. For a seamless look, select a backsplash in the same color family, like an off-white subway tile with snowy white quartz. Using the same tones draws the eye across the space.
Alternatively, opt for dramatic contrast with a bold backsplash color that makes the countertops pop. Dark quartz pairs well with a vibrant glass or ceramic tile in blue, green, or burgundy. Sticking to matte finishes prevents clashing with quartz’s polished surface.
The style of the backsplash also impacts its appearance with quartz. Sleek styles like subway tile and glass panels blend easily with quartz’s modern vibe. If your countertops have dramatic veining, choose a simple tile shape like squares or hexagons. This prevents the patterns from competing.
Consider Maintenance and Durability
Since the backsplash endures heavy use near the sink and stove, you’ll want a material that holds up over time and is easy to keep clean. Quartz’s toughness can handle spills, stains, and scratches, so look for a backsplash with similar durability.
Ceramic, porcelain, or glass tile resist moisture, heat, and grime. Use traditionally hardier tiles like subway or brick layouts near the stove to prevent cracking. Natural stone like marble or travertine requires more sealing from water damage.
For low maintenance, stainless steel or acrylic panels simply need soap, water, and occasional polishing to keep their luster. Avoid porous natural materials like wood or unsealed cement backsplashes that allow stains to soak in.
Factor in Texture and Gloss Level
The texture and light reflective qualities of the backsplash and countertop also affect their visual harmony. Quartz has a smooth, polished finish, so heavily textured materials can look too busy. Slightly textured tiles like tumbled stone provide subtle contrast.
Likewise, aim to match gloss levels. Quartz has a softly glowing sheen. Pairing it with glossy glass tile can create glare while matte finishes look dull. A medium gloss ceramic or metallic mosaic strikes the right balance.
Consider Grout Carefully
Grouting holds tile together, but it requires maintenance itself. Grout inevitably collects dirt in its crevices. This is especially challenging around quartz since you cannot use harsh chemicals or abrasives near its surface.
Choose grout that matches the tile color to help hide grime. Epoxy grout resists staining better than traditional cement options. You can also opt to eliminate grout with groutless tiles or tile strips. This creates a smoother overall look that wipes clean easily.
Include Accent Trims and Edges
Accent strips, bullnose edges, shelf trim, and other finishing touches complete the backsplash-countertop design. Contrasting trim color highlights the tile pattern against neutral quartz. Bullnose edges give tile a polished finish. floating corner shelves provide decorative and functional space.
Metallic choices like an oil-rubbed bronze edge or pewter crown molding add a luxe feel. Match the accents to other hardware finishes in the kitchen, like the faucet. Sleek quartz pairs well with modern stainless steel or chrome edges.
Consult a Professional Installer
A quality backsplash installation prevents damage to your investment in beautiful quartz countertops. Have an experienced kitchen pro handle the precise tile cutting needed around electrical and plumbing. This prevents cracked tiles or uneven spacing issues.
The installer should also use caulk, not grout, where the backsplash meets the countertop. Caulk allows for slight shifts between the two surfaces over time while preventing moisture seepage. Follow all care instructions for maintaining both the quartz and backsplash to get the longest life from your kitchen update.
Frequently Asked Questions About Picking a Backsplash for Quartz Countertops
What backsplash goes best with white quartz countertops?
White quartz pairs beautifully with almost any color backsplash. But for a subtle and seamless look, stick with soft hues like off-white subway tile, gray stone, or neutral patterned ceramic. Metallic mosaics in silver, copper, or gold also complement white quartz elegantly.
Should you match backsplash color to quartz countertop?
It often looks most cohesive to pick a backsplash color in the same tone family as your quartz. However, don’t be afraid to choose a bold, contrasting backsplash shade to make the countertops really stand out. Just ensure the textures are compatible.
What backsplash is most durable with quartz?
Porcelain, ceramic, or glass tile, as well as stainless steel panels, have the best durability for high-traffic spots near a quartz countertop. Avoid unsealed natural stone, concrete, or wood backsplashes that stain easily. The backsplash material should match your quartz’s resilience.
Should backsplash go all the way to the ceiling with quartz?
A full backsplash height can look stunning with quartz countertops. But extending tile from countertop to ceiling requires expert installation for a perfectly flush finish. Accent strips or floating shelves give the illusion of more height without the tile work.
What backsplash goes with blue quartz?
From navy to sky tones, blue quartz makes a bold statement. Contrast it with creamy subway tiles or beige natural stone. Alternately, pick a vibrant orange, yellow, or green glass mosaic to accent the blue hues even further. Gray marble or travertine adds subtle intrigue.
Conclusion
With so many backsplash products available, deciding on the perfect complement to quartz countertops involves considering color, texture, durability, grout, trim accents, and professional installation. Keeping the backsplash in the same color family as the countertops creates a cohesive feel, while choosing a contrasting color can make both stand out stylishly. Whichever combo you select, pick materials that are as practical in high-traffic areas as quartz itself. Then you can enjoy how beautifully they play off each other for years to come.