6 Options for Natural-Stone Backsplashes

Backsplash designs are accents that are smaller than a full wall and larger than a simple mosaic, and they can be installed for the purpose of contrasting, highlighting, or complementing natural-stone flooring or countertops. In general, backsplashes are spread between defined boundaries. For example, they can run from one end of the kitchen sink counter to the other, thus decorating the space below the cabinets. The beauty of natural stone is perfect to use as backsplash material. Here are six types of stone you can use to decorate your home. 1. Marble As one of the most expensive types of natural stone, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to request marble backsplashes made from remnants. The idea is to match floors or countertops. Depending on the amount of remnants available, they can be cut into mosaic or piano tiles. 2. Sandstone Interior design inspired by Southwest and Spanish Colonial styles calls for the earthy look of sandstone. The most common backsplash application in this regard is to choose tiles that are either lighter or darker than the floor. The idea is to establish an accent more than a contrast. 3. Granite Dark granite is a popular choice for kitchen countertops, and most installers recommend backsplashes made from the same slab for a nice matching effect. Vertical applications of dark green granite are appropriate in bathrooms that already feature a natural-stone countertop. Granite is a better backsplash choice for bathrooms than marble because it’s not as porous, thus making it easier to prevent water stains. As long as a granite sealer is applied when needed and the surfaces are cleaned regularly with a specially formulated cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner®, granite will retain its attractive appearance. 4. Slate For the ultimate rustic look, consider backsplashes made from dark gray slate tiles or fragments, preferably with a brushed or honed finish. If your living rooms are painted white, slate floors will provide a sharp contrast that can be complemented with backsplashes of the same type of stone, particularly on a fireplace surround. Slate is a very easy stone to maintain, just make sure to clean it with a slate and granite cleaner regularly. 5. Bluestone Bluestone is abundant and affordable in the northeastern United States and parts of Canada. While bluestone is commonly used for outdoor installations, it can also be used to enhance the look of country kitchens. Stacking patterns of rectangular bluestone tiles are very popular in New England kitchens and above headboards in the bedroom. 6. Travertine If you have hardwood or laminate floors, travertine backsplashes will combine very nicely. An advantage of travertine is that its color palette ranges from walnut to milk chocolate, which means it will blend in well with cabinets, furniture, and flooring that feature wood patterns. If you’re on a budget, unfinished travertine is an affordable choice. Whether you have a marble backsplash or granite countertops, one of the best things you can have on-hand to care for your stone is the Granite Gold Home Care Collection®, a granite polishing kit that comes with many of the products you need to keep your stone looking beautiful. All of the products provided by Granite Gold® are safe to use on all types of natural stone. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 1-800-475-STONE (7866).