Many homeowners prefer a backsplash for their kitchens. They come in a wide variety of styles, colors, patterns and materials, adding luxury and texture to any kitchen. As a visually-prominent detail in your kitchen, choosing the right backsplash to complement your granite countertops is important. The decision to go with a four-inch or full-length style is a personal one, but here is a look at the pros and cons of a four-inch backsplash.

Pros

There are many benefits associated with a four-inch backsplash instead of a longer style.

• A four-inch backsplash extends to an adequate enough height that it can protect the wall from splatters or spills, while at the same time not overwhelming the space.
• You can use the wall space between the backsplash’s top and the upper cabinets’ bottom for small accent pieces or artwork. 
• You will incur less cost by using less material, allowing you to stay within budget.
• Four-inch backsplashes offer a clean and uniform look when made out of matching countertop material.

Cons

On the other side of things, there are many reasons why homeowners don’t want a four-inch backsplash: 

• If colors don’t coordinate well between the backsplash and the wall, that distinction may look unmatched and disjointed. 
• Sometimes, the height of the backsplash creates a more closed-in feeling, which can be quite distracting. 
• With this type of backsplash, your wall is only protected up to the four-inch mark, leaving the rest of the painted wall vulnerable to stains and spatters.
• If you don’t properly grout the four-inch backsplash along the top edge, sauce, oils and soapy water can seep between that and the wall behind it. 

Refreshing a Four-Inch Backsplash

If you decide to go with a four-inch backsplash, it should reflect the updated look of your kitchen remodel. Here’s how to achieve that look.

1.     Upgrade your countertop and backsplash

When updating your counters to granite, quartz, or other stone, you’re setting yourself up for choosing a complementary backsplash that adds luxury to the space.

2.     Stagger heights of backsplash materials

You can begin with a four-inch backsplash in the same material as the counter, but then add a complementary but different surface above it. Try a material such as glass, marble, ceramic, or metal to add accent textures and colors. It’s a good idea to try staggering heights in your backsplash to resemble the lines inspired by the upper cabinets, for added geometric appeal. 

3.     Be creative with your materials

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and get creative with backsplash textures and colors. Try non-traditional materials to add the personalized touch you want to achieve, such as tin tiles or stamped concrete.

Contact Granite Guy

If you’re looking for the perfect complement to your new countertops, ask our advice on the best backsplashes for your kitchen. Schedule a consult with our Sudbury stone installers when you contact us at 508-460-7900 today.