Dreaming of updating your tired, dated kitchen backsplash but put off by the potential high cost? We’ve all been there. Kitchen renovation projects often top the list for expensive home upgrades, and backsplash replacement or installation tends to be part of that costly equation.
However, there are actually many surprising affordable backsplash solutions that can give your kitchen a whole new look without putting a dent in your wallet. With a mix of clever DIY projects using inexpensive materials to unique backsplash products you may not have considered, you can achieve a beautiful, eye-catching kitchen backsplash on a strict budget.
Why Choose a Cheap Backsplash?
So why even consider a budget-friendly backsplash in the first place? There are several solid reasons to explore affordable options before splurging on an expensive backsplash project:
- Budget limitations – If money is tight, an inexpensive backsplash allows you to refresh your kitchen within your current means.
- Renters can’t make major changes – Affordable backsplash options allow renters to customize within their rental restrictions.
- Allows small upgrades over time – You can start with quick, affordable backsplash updates now and save for larger projects down the road.
- Less commitment to a permanent design – With lower cost materials, you can switch up the look more easily when you’re ready for something new.
Peel-And-Stick Backsplash Sheets
One innovative product that has become very popular for affordable kitchen backsplashes is the peel-and-stick backsplash sheet. These are made from vinyl and have an adhesive backing that lets you stick them right onto an existing backsplash. Peel-and-stick sheets come in a wide range of styles – from faux subway tile to moroccan fish scale patterns and everything in between. They provide an instant transformation for just a fraction of the cost of genuine tile.
Pros of peel-and-stick backsplash sheets include the low cost, ease of DIY installation, and the variety of patterns and textures available. The adhesive backing makes installation a breeze. Just peel off the adhesive cover and press onto the backsplash surface. Use a roller or pressure from your hands to smooth and adhere the vinyl sheet. The sheets can also be easily removed later without damaging your walls, allowing you to switch up designs anytime.
Potential cons are that peel-and-stick sheets are less durable than real tile and generally only come in smaller sizes. They may not last as long with heavy usage and exposure to moisture and grime in a busy kitchen. The limited sizing also means you may see multiple seams, which affects the look. With care, however, a peel-and-stick backsplash can be surprisingly long-lasting and still give you the impact of a new backsplash on a budget.
Wallpaper Backsplash
For another decor-focused DIY backsplash solution, consider removable wallpaper. Wallpaper offers tons of colors, patterns, and textures to choose from at affordable prices. The application process is also simple enough for an achievable weekend DIY project.
To install a wallpaper backsplash, start with proper prep. Make sure your wall is smooth, clean, and dry before applying adhesive. Measure and cut your wallpaper to size. Apply adhesive to the backsplash wall area rather than the paper so you can reposition it. Roll the wallpaper onto the wall using a smoothing tool, working from top to bottom while eliminating any bubbles or wrinkles. Finally, use a utility knife to trim excess paper at the edges.
There are pros and cons to wallpaper backsplashes versus traditional tile. Wallpaper is typically cheaper and has a wider range of unique designs. It’s also removable, allowing you to change your mind. However, it lacks the durability and moisture resistance of ceramic or glass tile. With extra prep and sealing, wallpaper can stand up well to kitchen use. Overall, it’s a solid temporary option for affordable backsplash style.
Discount or Scrap Tile
For a more authentic tile look on a budget, consider sourcing discount, discontinued or leftover tile. Check with home improvement stores and tile shops to see if they have tile sales, specials or remnant pieces available.
Since you likely only need tile for a small backsplash area above your stove or countertops, you can often find enough discounted tile for a fraction of retail cost. Mix and match remnant tiles for an eclectic look. Or just tile a 20-inch stove backsplash area rather than the full wall. This tile backsplash focal point still makes the kitchen look finished.
Installing a small amount of bargain tile allows you to afford the real thing. While selecting tile can be time consuming, the money saved is well worth the extra effort. Be sure to incorporate your discount finds into your overall kitchen design and color scheme for a cohesive look.
Laminate Backsplash
Another way to achieve the look of a tile backsplash without the cost is to install a laminate backsplash. Laminate backsplash panels are made from synthetic laminate bonded to fiberboard or plastic. This creates a durable, water-resistant sheet material. Many laminate backsplash products mimic the appearance of ceramic, metal, and glass tile but cost far less.
Pros of laminate backsplash include the affordability, simple DIY installation, durability, and range of styles available. Laminate won’t crack like tile and resists moisture. But the tradeoff is that it lacks the beauty and texture of real tile. Depending on the quality, laminate can look obviously artificial up close. From a distance, however, it can fool the eye and create a stylish backsplash for very little money.
KompacPlus Material
Moving up a step in quality brings us to KompacPlus, made by KOMPAC. This is an engineered stone product constructed using epoxy resin and granite-like material. KompacPlus is durable, waterproof, and designed specifically for kitchen backsplashes. The sleek, minimalist style comes in a choice of colors – white, gray, beige and more.
The biggest downside to KompacPlus is the higher cost compared to materials like peel-and-stick and laminate. However, it’s still significantly cheaper than natural stone tile. When you factor in the durability and long-lasting quality, KompacPlus delivers excellent value. No sealing or ongoing maintenance is required. The smooth finish also minimizes grout lines for an upscale look. Overall, KompacPlus backsplashes offer homeowners a balance of affordability and quality.
Stainless Steel Backsplash
For a decidedly modern, industrial edge, stainless steel makes a durable, affordable backsplash option. Stainless steel backsplashes are created from sheets of commercial-grade stainless steel. This material offers a sleek, contemporary look. It also takes rugged kitchen use in stride. Stainless steel is water-resistant, non-porous, and easy to keep clean.
Stainless steel backsplashes can be purchased in pre-cut sheets at home improvement stores or metal supply shops. You can also often find discounted scrap pieces. Use tin snips to cut sheets to size as needed. Run a bead of adhesive or liquid nails along the backsplash area, carefully position the sheet, and press into place.
One downside of stainless steel backsplashes is keeping them free of fingerprints and smudges. Be diligent about cleaning and polishing to maintain the shiny appearance. Overall, stainless steel makes an affordable, low-maintenance backsplash design option.
Fun Posters or Stickers
If you’re working with an extremely tight budget, an ultra-affordable way to enhance a basic backsplash is by decorating with wall prints. For a playful pop culture vibe, use inexpensive posters or decorative vinyl stickers. Choose fun motifs like food art, restaurant signs, or iconic movie or music imagery.
For easy application, select vinyl stickers with a peel-off backing that adhere directly to the backsplash surface. They can typically be removed later without damaging the underlying wall. You can also frame affordable art prints or posters using adhesive hooks and drape wires to hang on the backsplash area. It adds color and interest for very little money. Swapping out the prints lets you freshen up the look anytime.
Get Creative With Materials
Sometimes the best budget backsplash ideas come from thinking outside the box. Consider an eclectic mix of repurposed materials for your backsplash to create something unique. Try beadboard panels, faux metal sheets, corrugated tin ceiling tiles, reclaimed wood, and more. You’re only limited by your imagination.
For example, beadboard backsplash panels create a charming cottage look from thin wooden strips. Fake metal or tin sheets offer an industrial edge. Mismatched wood crates make a rustic statement. Painting your existing backsplash or tiles is another budget option for a fresh color reboot.
Get creative and work with affordable materials readily available. Seek pieces with character from home improvement stores, secondhand outlets, or your own garage or attic. Part of the appeal is letting your innovative, crafty side shine through at very little cost.
Final Tips for an Affordable Backsplash
To wrap up, here are a few final pointers for ensuring your kitchen backsplash project sticks to budget:
- Focus your backsplash area above the stove or countertops only, around 20-30 inches wide.
- Opt for simple designs rather than intricate patterns, which cost more in materials and labor.
- Check websites like Craigslist for people selling leftover tile or partial boxes of new tile.
- Consider getting creative and repurposing scrap wood, metal, or other intriguing items.
- If tiling, do the installation yourself rather than paying for labor.
- Use accent tiles or decorative inserts sparingly to save costs.
- Buy peel-and-stick, wallpaper or other removable materials to test out different looks.
With smart planning and resourceful thinking outside the box, you can achieve a fabulous new backsplash allure without demolishing your bank account. A dash of creativity and willingness to take on DIY installation for unique materials goes a long way. Before you resign yourself to the assumed high price of a backsplash overhaul, explore these surprisingly budget-friendly ideas. You may transform your kitchen for much less than imagined.
Updating your kitchen backsplash doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Peel-and-stick sheets, wallpaper, discount tile, and other thrifty finds provide gorgeous options without breaking the bank. Focus on a smaller area, keep the design simple, seek discounted materials, and don’t be afraid to get creative. With the range of innovative affordable backsplash products now available, you can achieve a beautiful, eye-catching kitchen focal point on even the most limited budget.
