Kitchen DIY: Five ways to add an inexpensive backsplash

Finding a home renovation project that provides quick results, is economical and a DIY project you can do in a weekend is not always easy to find. But one that most anyone can tackle is a new kitchen backsplash. Designed to protect your walls from splashes and stains, a new backsplash can go up in a day with some planning. Consider a new backsplash if you’d like to easily add some panache to your kitchen and give the space a budget-friendly update.

Peel-and-stick tile

Tile is the standard in backsplashes, but tile can be difficult to work with, cut and apply. Then there’s the grout that’s required. For a faster option that doesn’t require so much work or effort, it’s hard to get much faster — or easier — than peel-and-stick tile.

Today there are peel-and-stick tile sheets that can go over existing tile or backsplash and that come grouted and ready to apply. Starting at about $6 a sheet, tiles don’t get much more budget-friendly than that. They look like regular tile and come in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, and in finishes of slate, marble, metallic or subway-style. Best of all, the only tools required are a utility knife and a straight edge.

Veneers

Rather than simply looking like stacked-up stones on a sheet, stone veneers are actually thin pieces of real stone cut from a slab. They’re a beautiful option for a backsplash, and because they’re real stone you get the real-stone look without the weight or cost of a thicker slab. Contact your local stone company with your dimensions. Install with standard tile adhesive.

Glass

One of the fastest and easiest backsplashes is glass. Glass can be cut into a variety of sizes and goes up quickly, though care does need to be taken when handling it. Because glass can be painted or wallpaper can be added behind, the design possibilities of glass are endless. A glass backsplash that’s been painted can create a very modern look in the kitchen.

If the glass is behind a stove, choose tempered glass to handle temperature variations.

Make sure to include holes for outlets when you have your glass cut to size. Install with clips or adhesive recommended by your glass company. Special glass paints can create a smooth and modern look. Be sure to add glass electrical outlet covers once the glass has been installed (wgsonline.com).

Natural options

A rustic option is to use shiplap, or clapboard, placed on the horizontal. This creates a cottage look that’s charming and quick to install. Use traditional clapboard or cut plywood into six-inch-wide strips, cut to measure and install with finishing nails and putty holes. Paint to match cabinets or counters. For even more rustic charm, use weathered barn wood or shiplap siding.

Stainless steel

Stainless appliances are as popular as ever, so think about complementing them with a stainless backsplash. Buy sheets from your local metals company and apply with adhesive. Stainless is easy to cut and quick to apply. Be sure to finish with stainless steel outlet covers for a cohesive look.