What To Consider Before Hopping On The Gorgeous Copper Backsplash Kitchen Trend

Your backsplash both protects the walls and adds to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. The right backsplash can transform your kitchen into a chic, stylish space. One of the more popular backsplash materials right now is copper. Experts have been seeing an increase in interest in copper kitchen backsplashes. There are many reasons for homeowners to love copper backsplashes. They are perfect for a range of kitchen styles, from contemporary to traditional. Copper backsplashes look especially great in vintage and industrial-looking kitchens.

There are other advantages to copper besides just aesthetics. Copper has natural antimicrobial properties, according to research published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology. This makes the material great for kitchen applications. Copper is also easy to clean, durable, and will last for a long time with the proper care and maintenance. Copper is wonderful for many reasons, but there are some downsides that you will want to consider before choosing it for your kitchen backsplash. Copper will discolor over time and will need to be sealed to prevent this from happening. In addition, copper backsplashes are much pricier than other materials. Here's a closer look at what you will want to consider before installing a copper backsplash.

Over time, copper develops a patina. This is a greenish or brownish film that develops on the surface of the metal due to a series of chemical reactions. Some people love the way patina looks — especially those who have a vintage aesthetic. However, if you aren't a fan of this look, and want to avoid a patina on your copper backsplash, then you'll need to apply a solvent-based sealer on the tiles after installing them.

To seal your backsplash, first clean the tile. To clean copper, mix together baking soda and lemon juice. Then, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently polish the surface. Rinse the cleaning solution off gently with a soft cloth. Finally, dry the copper backsplash completely. Next, it's time to apply the sealer. Make sure you wear eye protection and open a window for ventilation before beginning. Apply the solvent to the entire surface of the backsplash. After you have done this, wipe off any excess with a cloth.

Copper backsplashes cost significantly more than other kitchen backsplash materials like aluminum. At Home Depot copper backsplash tile runs from $109 per square foot to $123. In comparison, you can get polished ceramic subway tile at Home Depot for less than $7 a square foot. If you are looking to install a kitchen backsplash on a budget, you might want to avoid real copper. Fortunately, you can get the look of a copper backsplash without breaking the bank.

One option is to choose a vinyl backsplash that looks like copper. Home Depot sells Cracked Copper Vinyl Backsplash panels that are less than $8 per square foot. Most DIYers can install this affordable backsplash. It's also easy to clean. Stainless steel subway wall tile is another budget-friendly alternative to copper. At nearly $14 a square foot at Home Depot, this backsplash material is more expensive than vinyl. However, it is still much more affordable compared to copper. Metal tiles are very durable. You can expect them to last for quite a long time.