Stainless Steel Tile Backsplash – Is It Worth The Additional Cost?
Tile backsplashes are not only installed for the purpose of enhancing and improving the look of the kitchen but for useful and practical application as well. They protect that strip of wall between the countertop and the cabinets from constant exposure to water which could damage it in the long run. There are many varieties when it comes backsplash materials. One that simply projects modernity and cool design is a stainless steel tile backsplash. They will add a clean, smooth, and bright look and can be compatible with a wide range of styles and themes.
Stainless steel is a versatile material that will surely give you a wide option when it comes to conceptualizing the design of your kitchen. Additionally, you are no longer limited to the simple smooth, sleek look. Right now a collection of surface textures are available, like hammered steel, or quilted or ribbed designs, giving homeowner more ways to employ stainless steel into their kitchen design.
Stainless Steel Tile Backsplash—The Advantages
What makes stainless steel tile backsplashes a standout? The answer to that is more on the practical or functional side rather than the looks itself. There is a reason why most restaurant kitchens prefer them. The primary purpose is that it is tough enough to handle the rigorous activities that a commercial kitchen will normally encounter. Steel is a tough and durable material that will not be easily damage when it comes in contact with heat, hot pans, or hot liquids.
One more functional quality that works for the advantage of this type of tile backsplash and other kitchen surfaces is that is easy to clean. Dirt and spills coming from the meals being prepared can be easily removed with hot water, soap and a sponge and you don’t need to seal, wax it or oil it. To make it spotless and clean, just wipe it dry. This is another reason why this material is very much in use in most kitchen. Cleanliness in the kitchen should be maintained extremely well and with easy to clean and spotless stainless steel surfaces, such a goal can be easily maintained.
Having said that, there are some points that you need to take into account like avoiding acids coming from tomatoes, citric acids, and vinegars which can cause a reaction with steel that could lead to stains. Other liquids like bleaches and chlorides are also to be avoided for the same reason. In cases that these liquids will come in contact with the steel surface, just immediately wipe it clean.
Stainless Steel Tile Backsplash Disadvantages
A stainless steel tile backsplash will cost you more which is why your budget should be carefully considered. You can opt for glass or ceramic as alternatives should the cost discourage you from using stainless steel. A stainless steel sheet will be a less costly option however it would require you to hire a professional service to install tile backsplash which will add to the cost. Another less expensive option is a metal laminate which is actually a plastic base with a thin sheet of stainless steel applied to it.
Even though stainless steel can be tough and polished in look, it is vulnerable however to dents and scratches that will easily remove its spotless and shiny new look over a period of time. One solution to this is to use the patterned stainless steel backsplash tiles designed which are excellent in making blemishes, dents, and scratches that occur through normal use disappear or less obvious. Added to that, this type will also not require polishing and will not discolor over time.
In terms of design, stainless steel is only limited to that shiny silver look and nothing more so you cannot exercise much customization when it comes to its olor and overall look.
Other Metal Tile Backsplashes
One good alternative, if you don’t primarily want to go for steel when it comes to look but still want its durability and easy to clean qualites then you can go for the other metal tile backsplashes. They can be suitably used as well since similar to steel, it is as well resistant to heat and will not be damaged by pots and pans fresh from the fire. The good thing about this material is the fact that it can be available in more colors and patterns. Examples of these backsplashes are copper, brass, zinc and tin.
However unlike steel, metal backsplashes will require polishing to maintain its original look and shine. The cost will be high as well like that of steel so this would not be something of a less costly alternative.
