Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Rock Tile Backsplash—Your Ultimate Guide


If you want to install something that looks natural in your kitchen, you should consider installing a rock tile kitchen backsplash. A kitchen backsplash has a lot of functions. The most important function of a backsplash is to protect your walls against stains, oil splatters, and food debris. A kitchen backsplash is also decorative. It can serve as the main focal point in your kitchen, especially if the design is really intricate and eye-catching.
Backsplashes made of rock tiles can surely give you these benefits. If you are planning to install a rock backsplash in your kitchen, here are some of the things that you need to consider.
Different types
Rock tile materials come in different types such as the ones in the list below.
·        Granite. This is a popular type of rock that is used in building construction for many years. This material is strong and has a natural look to it because of its granular texture. Aside from your kitchen backsplash, you can also use granite for your kitchen countertop or flooring.
·        Travertine. A travertine tile backsplash is also a popular choice among homeowners and interior designers. It is also used as bathroom or kitchen flooring and wall covering. You can also install a travertine mosaic tile backsplash for a more unique look.
·        Pebbles and small stones. Installing a backsplash made of pebbles and small stones will surely add a natural touch to your kitchen. You can also use pebble tiles in your shower room. You would surely feel as if you are in a pond rather than inside your kitchen or shower area every time you see your pebble tile backsplash and shower floors.
·        Large rocks. You can also install large rocks in their original shape as your kitchen backsplash. Instead of buying rock tiles, you can choose rocks that have irregular shapes for a more natural look. This will surely be the topic of conversation when you invite your friends over.
Pros and cons
Choosing rock tiles for your kitchen backsplash has pros and cons. A kitchen backsplash made of rocks give your kitchen a natural look that you cannot find in other materials. It is more decorative than other types of tiles. You can also play around different tile designs and textures that will give your kitchen backsplash a more unique and interesting look. The downside of installing a rock kitchen backsplash is mold growth. Rocks can absorb moisture and a moist surface is the ideal habitat for fungi. Unless you choose granite or travertine tiles, rock tiles are more difficult to clean than other materials with an even and smooth surface.
Other tips
You should consider installing the tiles yourself if you have an idea how to do it or you should hire a contractor to do the job for you. When buying rock tiles, you should determine the number of tiles that you would need for your backsplash so it is important to come up with a design or pattern and get the right measurements on the wall where you are planning to install the backsplash.