A kitchen backsplash is more than just a barrier to protect the walls from dings and stains. Some homeowners may fall in love with a certain backsplash material and design the entire room around it while others view the backsplash as an accent to the rest of the kitchen design. From whichever perspective the backsplash is viewed, planning and designing it is an important decision in which there are several materials, colors and patterns to choose from. Whether the backsplash consists of tiles, a solid slab, a stainless-steel sheet or another type of wall covering the backsplash is an important feature of the overall kitchen design and can even be the focal point of the room.

When considering a tile backsplash, there are a wide selection of tile materials to choose from such as ceramic, glass, porcelain, metal, stone and mirror. The materials are available in a variety of colors, shapes and patterns. If staying within a tight budget is a priority, there are also vinyl panels manufactured to resemble various metals that are sold at home improvement centers as backsplash options. Vinyl panels may not be a good choice for behind the stove or anywhere high temperatures could melt the vinyl, but they are less expensive than tile or slab. A small amount of a more expensive, heat resistant material can be used in high heat areas.

Another thing to consider when choosing tile is that some materials, as well as some grouts, require more maintenance than others as they may show or even absorb stains and water while others don't. With so many tile options available either at home improvement stores or tile specialty stores, there should be something that fulfills the needs of any homeowner.

In addition, laying tile can be challenging depending on the type of tile, the area that needs to be covered and how much measuring, cutting and grouting is required. However, some tile is sold in sheets with self-adhesive backing which eliminates some of the work but making clean correct cuts and using the proper type of grout are some examples of details that need to be addressed. Although many DIYers succeed at laying their own tile, it might be worthwhile to have a professional plan and build the tile backsplash.

One style of tile that remains popular and plentiful is subway tiles. According to hgtv.com, "The versatility of subway tile has made it an extremely popular choice among homeowners, which has led to its wide availability in a diversity of styles." Subway tiles are no longer sold simply as white rectangular ceramic tiles, but are available in different colors, sizes and materials.

An alternative to a tile backsplash is to use a custom cut slab of material. It can be the same material as the countertops or a contrasting color of the same material or a different material entirely. Taylor Davies writing for The Spruce suggests, "Note that designing your countertops and backsplash the same material is a great way to create continuity and let other elements of the room shine—like quirky color cabinetry or elaborate display shelving." Solid slabs of marble, granite, quartz or concrete are some of the materials available.

Other options that use large pieces of continuous material rather than a repeat of tile are to use stainless steel or glass sheets to create a backsplash. Both stainless steel and glass are low maintenance and provide a light-reflecting minimalist style to the kitchen. Stainless steel sheets are available patterned as well as smooth while glass can be painted a specific color on the back side before installation.

Wood is an option to consider as a DIY project for a homeowner with more experience working with wood than tile. The warmth of wood can be a good contrast to countertops of stone or stainless steel. Mary Kate Hogan writing for This Old House says, "In a kitchen, nothing warms up stainless steel and stone finishes like a touch of wood. Which might explain why backsplashes made from shiplap, beadboard, and even barnwood are more popular than ever." Be sure to check local codes that determine the safe distance between the wood backsplash and the stovetop. A different material may be needed on the wall behind the stove to avoid fire.

Whether the backsplash is simply considered an extension of the countertop or a creative opportunity to contrast and complement an adjacent area of the room or the focal point within the overall kitchen design there is sure to be a style, material and design to please every homeowner.