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Installing a backsplash can be the perfect complement to your new stone countertop. There are many options that you can choose from for stone backsplashes.
Why Install a Stone Backsplash?
Adding a backsplash has numerous benefits. One of these benefits is added visual appeal. Regardless of what stone you choose, your new stone backsplash will freshen up your wall as well as highlight your countertop. If you truly want to highlight your countertop, consider using the same stone for the backsplash. Another benefit of backsplashes is protection for your walls. Your backsplash will guard against any potential stains that may otherwise find their way onto your walls.
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Stone Backsplash Prices
Since you will likely be using tiles for your backsplash, prices of stone backsplashes are generally within the following range.
Minimum | $9 per square foot |
Maximum | $17 per sqaure foot |
What Are My Stone Backsplash Options?
If you are looking to install a stone backsplash, you will have several material options to choose from. Your material options include:
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Granite
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Marble
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Soapstone
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Slate
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Limestone
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Travertine
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Onyx
The following is an analysis of each option.
Granite
Granite is one of the most durable natural stones that you can find. It is the most popular backsplash material, as well as the most popular for countertops. You will be able to find granite in many different colors, so you can either match your countertop or go for a contrasting look. Because of the stone’s strength, granite is a logical choice for a kitchen backsplash.
Marble
Marble is another very popular stone backsplash material. The stone’s elegant veining will increase the beauty of any room you use it in. Marble can also be found in many different colors. Because it is not quite as strong as granite, marble is more commonly used as a backsplash in the bathroom.
Soapstone
One of the main advantages of soapstone is that it is not porous – a characteristic that you typically will not see in natural stones. Because of this, soapstone would be an excellent choice for either the kitchen or the bathroom. Soapstone can be found in various shades of gray, some of which have hints of green or blue.
Slate
If you are looking for a stone that has a uniform look, slate is the ideal choice for you. The stone typically comes in various shades of gray, which works well as a neutral color in any room. Something to note about slate is that you can also use it outdoors. It will be a perfect addition to your outdoor cooking area.
Limestone
Despite not being the strongest stone, there is no denying that limestone backsplashes look quite impressive. If you are willing to put in the effort to be careful around the material, a limestone backsplash can work for you. You can find limestone in a variety of colors, ranging from dark gray to light gold.
Travertine
Travertine is a form of limestone, so many of the properties listed above for limestone also hold true for travertine. Although you will have to exercise the proper amount of caution, if you take care of it, travertine is a very attractive material for a stone backsplash.
Onyx
If you are looking for something that will really catch attention, consider using onyx. The stone is on the pricier side, but if you want something that is truly stunning, there are few materials that can surpass onyx. As with limestone and travertine, you will have to be very careful. However, if you have no problem with keeping up on maintenance, you will be well rewarded by choosing onyx.
In addition to materials, you will have your choice of using tiles or the slab of stone. Tiles are much cheaper to use. If you choose to use part of the slab, you can use the same type of stone that your countertop has to create a uniform look.
Another choice you will make is how large you want your backsplash to be. You can either have it cover part of the wall, the entire wall space from the countertop up or even just a 4-inch backsplash.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Stone Backsplashes
Overall, there are generally certain characteristics that different types of stone will have in common. The advantages and disadvantages of having a stone backsplash are explained below.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Durable | Porous |
Many styles to choose from | Some can have high cost |
High resale value |
Advantages
Durable
Most stone that you can use for backsplashes will be very durable. There are some that you will have to be more careful with than others, so make sure to learn how to properly care for whatever stone you choose.
Many Styles to Choose From
Here is an advantage that truly applies to all of your stone backsplash options. You will not be limited in terms of material that you can choose from, and there will even be a varied selection within individual types of stone.
High Resale Value
Another advantage that all of these options have in common is a high resale value. Stone is a very attractive material to have in the house, so many prospective homeowners will be delighted to find stone countertops and backsplashes in the house. It may even be a deciding factor in the sale.
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Disadvantages
Porous
The majority of natural stones are porous. Soapstone is the only one on the list above that is a non-porous stone. For stone options that are porous, you will need to re-seal them every so often, some more frequently than others. Sealing protects against damage from hazards like liquids.
Some Can Have High Cost
The cost will vary between different types of stone backsplashes. A stone such as granite will be cheaper than many types of onyx.
Adding a stylish stone backsplash can be just what you need to tie together your kitchen remodeling project. No matter what stone you choose, you will surely be glad that you decided to install the backsplash.
National Average
$4,000
(30 sq.ft. of moderate countertop with eased edge, undermount sink, and no backsplash)
Cost to install kitchen countertops varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). Get free estimates from countertop installers in your city.
Find out how much your project will cost.