Considering A Metal Backsplash?

A metal backsplash is a very different way to go, and also a long lasting alternative. Metal is good for this area because it's easy to keep clean and a great way to get a very appealing design element.

This area is more commonly reserved for stone and tile, but not anymore. A metal kitchen backsplash is all the rage these days and it's not hard to understand why. The design is limited only by your imagination.

Metal backsplashes come in many different styles; to include tile, stamped metal panels, and in sheets. There are also many materials available as well. The most often used are stainless steel, tin, copper, and aluminum backsplashes.

• Tiles come in many different colors and textures. You can mix and match the different colors and textures; or keep the look cohesive with the same style of tile. A good way to incorporate metal tile into your design without overpowering it, is to use the tile sparingly.

• Using the tile over the cooktop, in a mural or personal design, is a great way to get the metal into the design. Having metal that is in the same color family as another material will keep the whole design working together. But if you would like an area to stand out, and be a focal point, using metal that is very bright and colorful in one area will accomplish this.

• Stamped metal panels, more commonly used on the ceiling, is also a good alternative. These panels are easy to install, and they can be used to cover up other materials already on your backsplash. Cutting and installing these panels are very easy, and by doing the installation yourself will save you money over a custom metal backsplash.

• These panels come in many different styles, designs, and metals. Picking a design can be difficult but the rewards are awesome. There are many companies that offer these panels. The most common metal is tin but other available metals are stainless steel, brass, and copper

• Sheet metal is also a good way to get a metal backsplash. Sheet metal needs to fabricated and installed by a metalsmith. The complexity of cutting the metal to fit the space, the joining of the material, the bending and shaping of the metal is why a metalsmith is needed. Although, a talented carpenter can also accomplish this as well.

• Sheet metal comes in various textures, hammered and ribbed for example. A variety of finishes are also available. Polished metal is high maintence and requires regular polishing to maintain the bright, new metal.

• An artificial patina can also be done with acids, and sometimes the metal is sealed with a preservative to protect the look. Or you can let the metal patina on it's own; letting the metal age on it's own will give a more authentic look.

  Common metals used in sheet form are copper and stainless steel.

Having a metal backsplash is a fabulous way to get a very different look in your kitchen. Metal can be very easy to install or very complex and require a professional. Prices start from $20 per square foot up to $150 per square foot depending on the complexity of design and desired features. A metal kitchen backsplash is a great way to go!