The Ultimate Guide to Buying Kitchen Splashback Tiles
Choosing kitchen splashback tiles is more than just a design choice; it’s a decision that impacts the functionality, style, and longevity of one of the most-used spaces in your home. With over 50 years of experience helping Perth homeowners create stunning, practical kitchens, we understand the importance of selecting the right kitchen tiles that fit both your aesthetic and your lifestyle needs. A well-chosen splashback can tie together the look of your kitchen, protect your walls, and even add value to your property.
When choosing kitchen splashback tiles, there are several key factors to consider. From material and durability to colour, texture, and budget, the right choice depends on knowing what works best for your unique kitchen. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including practical tips on tile selection, cost considerations, and insights to make the process simpler.
How to Choose a Kitchen Splashback Tile
Consider Your Kitchen Design Style
First and foremost, think of the design style you want to portray in not only your kitchen but throughout your home. As mentioned, the splashback will set the tone for the design of your kitchen, and your kitchen will set the tone for the design of your house. Therefore, are you looking for a contemporary design or a traditional design?
Your kitchen design style will narrow down the tile designs you should be looking at. For example, for a modern minimalist design, consider trending tiles such as those with geometric shapes. Consider plainer designs and standard shapes like subway tiles for classic traditional design.
Consider Your Colour Palette
When choosing kitchen splashback tiles, the colour palette is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. The right tile colour can tie your entire kitchen together, while the wrong one can disrupt the balance of your design. Start by considering whether your splashback will act as a feature or play a supporting role.
If you want your splashback to stand out, consider bold design elements such as rich colours, striking patterns, or contrasting shades that create a dramatic impact. For instance, a deep navy tile or emerald green tile can add a modern, upscale vibe and looks stunning against white or natural wood cabinets. I recently worked with a customer who chose a matte black tile as their feature splashback—paired with our white cabinetry, it created a beautiful contrast and an undeniable focal point.
On the other hand, if you’re after a subtle, seamless look, opt for lighter or softer kitchen tile. Monochromatic tiles in whites, greys, or neutral tones like beige can create a clean, understated elegance, blending effortlessly with benchtops, cabinets, and flooring.
Always consider how your splashback tile colour complements other elements in your kitchen. It’s worth bringing samples home to see how they look in your lighting, as tiles can appear different in natural vs. artificial light.
Consider the Tile Size
When choosing kitchen tiles, size matters—both aesthetically and practically. Tile size can dramatically influence the visual impact of your splashback, as well as the maintenance involved.
For smaller kitchens or splashback areas, popular options like 75x150mm classic subway tiles or trendy 200x200mm square tiles can work wonders. These smaller tiles add texture and detail, often becoming a focal point. However, keep in mind that smaller tiles require more grout lines, which means extra cleaning to keep that grout looking fresh. If you love the look but want easier upkeep, consider larger tiles with a simple layout to achieve a similar effect without the hassle.
For larger kitchens or expansive splashback walls, larger-format tiles—think 300x600mm or even larger—can create a clean, seamless look with minimal grout lines, making them easier to clean and maintain. I recently recommended large-format tiles to a customer with an open-plan kitchen, and they were thrilled with the sleek, uninterrupted look it gave their splashback.
Ultimately, while design and style may take precedence, the practical consideration of tile size can significantly influence the usability of your kitchen. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock a wide range of splashback tiles in various sizes, from mosaic to large format, giving you options to fit any style and space perfectly.
Following the latest tile trends will also help you determine the best size to use.
Consider the Tile Material
When choosing kitchen splashback tiles, the material is more than just a background detail—it influences durability, maintenance, and overall look. Although many customers first fall for a tile’s design, it’s essential to understand how different types of tiles can impact your kitchen in the long run.
Porcelain Splashback Tiles
For a highly durable and low-maintenance splashback, porcelain tiles are an excellent choice. They are stain-resistant, easy to clean, and more moisture-resistant than ceramic, making them ideal for high-use kitchens.
Fiona Burford, Business Development at Lifestyle Decorations, explains, “Porcelain tiles are a fantastic choice for splashbacks—they’re highly durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Plus, with advanced printing technology, they can replicate the look of natural stone, wood, or concrete, making them a perfect fit for both modern and traditional kitchens.”
While slightly pricier than ceramic, porcelain’s long-term durability and stylish versatility make it a smart investment for any kitchen.
Ceramic Splashback Tiles
Ceramic tiles are a budget-friendly and versatile choice, making them a popular option for kitchen splashbacks. Available in a wide range of finishes, from glossy to matte, they suit nearly any kitchen style, whether you prefer classic subway tiles or bold patterned designs.
“Ceramic tiles are an affordable option that works beautifully for splashbacks or accent walls. Their lightweight nature makes them easier to install, offering a practical yet stylish solution for any kitchen,” Fiona explains.
While naturally porous, ceramic tiles become water- and stain-resistant when glazed, making them low-maintenance for everyday use. However, unglazed ceramics require extra care to keep them looking fresh.
Glass Tiles & Mosaics
Glass tiles and glass mosaics offer a sleek, modern look with a high-shine, reflective surface that enhances natural light, making them a great choice for smaller kitchens. Their non-porous nature makes them easy to clean, and they provide a cost-effective alternative to a full glass splashback while achieving a similar sophisticated aesthetic.
“Glass mosaic tiles are perfect for backsplashes in smaller kitchens, as their reflective surface bounces light around the space, creating a bright and airy feel,” says Fiona.
However, glass tiles can be prone to scratches, so careful installation and regular cleaning are essential to maintaining their pristine appearance.
Marble Splashback Tiles
Glass mosaic tiles offer a sleek, modern look and are naturally non-porous, making them easy to clean. They’re a wonderful alternative to a full glass splashback, providing similar visual appeal at a fraction of the cost. That said, glass tiles can be prone to scratches over time, so careful installation and regular cleaning are key to keeping them looking pristine.
If luxury is what you’re after, marble tiles bring a timeless elegance to any kitchen splashback. However, marble is naturally porous and requires regular sealing to prevent it from absorbing stains and grease. It’s a beautiful option, but be prepared for a bit of upkeep if you want to keep it in top condition.
Ultimately, the right tile material depends on your kitchen’s style, budget, and the time you’re willing to spend on maintenance.
Consider the Finish
Beyond colour, size and material, the finish of your splashback tiles plays a major role in the overall aesthetic and functionality of your kitchen. The choice between glossy, matte, or textured finishes can influence everything from light reflection to ease of cleaning.
For smaller kitchens, glossy tiles are a smart choice as they reflect light, helping the space feel brighter and more open. Fiona explains, “Glossy finishes reflect light, making smaller kitchens feel brighter and more spacious. This can be a great way to enhance a compact space without major renovations.”
If you prefer a softer, more understated look, matte finishes create a modern, refined aesthetic that works well in contemporary kitchens. They are also excellent at hiding fingerprints and watermarks, making them a practical choice for high-use areas.
Textured tiles, such as ribbed or handcrafted designs, introduce depth and interest to a kitchen splashback. These tiles are perfect for creating a feature wall effect but may require slightly more maintenance, as textured surfaces can trap grease and grime.
No matter which finish you choose, consider how it interacts with your kitchen’s lighting and overall design style to achieve the perfect balance of functionality and beauty.
Consider the Maintenance
While aesthetics and material are important when selecting a splashback, maintenance is just as crucial—especially in a high-use space like the kitchen. Some tiles require more upkeep than others, and making the right choice can save you time and effort in the long run.
Fiona advises, “Opt for materials that are easy to clean, like glazed ceramics, porcelain, or glass. These are all non-porous and resist stains from food splashes, making them ideal for high-use kitchens.”
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular choices because they’re durable, low-maintenance, and easy to wipe clean. Glass tiles, while sleek and modern, are also stain-resistant, making them another great option for homeowners who prioritise effortless upkeep.
On the other hand, materials like natural stone and unglazed tiles require sealing and more frequent cleaning to maintain their appearance. If you love the look of stone but want something lower maintenance, stone-look porcelain tiles offer a practical alternative with the same elegant appeal.
Consider the Costs
When choosing a kitchen splashback, budget is often top of mind. Splashbacks are available in a range of materials, each with a unique price range, and some options can quickly add up. According to a recent article on domain.com.au, tiles are one of the most budget-friendly splashback choices, costing between $45 and $250 per square metre, plus an estimated $400 for installation. This makes them an affordable option, especially compared to glass or stone, which can be considerably more expensive.
In addition to cost savings, tiles also offer unique benefits in terms of durability and versatility. They’re available in a wide array of styles, including mosaic tiles, classic subway tiles, and feature tiles, allowing you to achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank. And because tiles are modular, you can easily swap out a few if they get damaged, saving on long-term maintenance costs.
Why Choose Tiles for Your Splashback?
Tiles Are Available in Various Sizes
The most convenient element in choosing tiles for a splashback is that they are available in various sizes and shapes. Unlike other materials, tiles can be laid without or very little cutting. And, if cutting is required, they are very easy to cut to size.
Tiles Are Extremely Flexible
There is possibly no other splashback material that offers the same flexibility as tiles. They are available in such a large range of styles, textures, materials, and designs that you will surely find a tile to suit your design tastes.
Tiles Are Incredibly Affordable
One of the biggest benefits of choosing tiles for splashbacks in Perth is that they are so inexpensive—especially if you purchase them from Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We have tiles ideal for splashbacks for as little as $3.00 per tile or $35 per square metre—this is even cheaper than the average cost published in the article cited above from domain.com.au.
Compared to other splashback materials, tiles offer substantial cost savings. According to this article, a glass splashback can cost as much as $300 to $400 per square metre; hardboard splashbacks will set you back around $80 per square metre, and expect to pay upwards of $120 per square metre for a tin panel splashback. A laminate splashback costs upwards of $230 per square metre, and an acrylic splashback costs at least $247 per square metre.
As you can see, selecting a tiled splashback is an obvious choice for those on a budget. If you’re torn between tiles and glass for your kitchen splashback, our tiles vs. glass splashbacks comparison can guide your decision. We’ve analysed both options to determine which excels in style, durability, cost, and maintenance.
They Offer a Classic Style
A tiled splashback design is the most traditional splashback. Tiles were the original material of choice and, to this day, continue to provide an unmatched traditional design element. Just think about subway tiles. Subway tiles originated in the subways of New York City in 1903, and they continue to be one of the most popular choices for splashbacks in Perth today.
If you’re considering using splashback tiles, I recommend you read my article, ‘4 Reasons Why Subway Tiles Are the Ultimate Kitchen Splashback Choice.‘ And for tile inspiration, you won’t want to miss our top Tiled Kitchen Splashback Ideas.
Now that I’ve given you ample reason why I believe tiles are the perfect splashback choice, I hope you have decided to use them for your kitchen. But if you’re still unsure about tiles, check out some of the hottest kitchen splashback ideas for more ideas and inspiration.
Conclusion
Choosing kitchen splashback tiles is a crucial step in defining the look and functionality of your kitchen. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless appeal of ceramic tiles, the durability of porcelain, the sleek modernity of glass, or the luxury of marble, each material has unique benefits that can elevate your kitchen space.
When selecting kitchen tiles for splashbacks, consider your colour palette, the tile size, and the material’s properties. Remember, your splashback is not just a design feature; it’s a hardworking element that will stand up to the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we understand the importance of making choices that balance both style and practicality. We invite you to explore our wide selection of kitchen splashback tiles, each handpicked to suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Visit our showroom in Perth or browse online for high-quality and affordable splashback tiles.
