The Affordable Backsplash Alternative For Your Kitchen Or Bathroom

If you're designing your kitchen or bathroom on a budget, tile and stone aren't the only backsplash options. You don't have to forgo a backsplash altogether if you're afraid of overspending. There are several more affordable alternatives that can add visual interest to your space. One way to make your backsplash pop is by installing wallpaper. While there are a few steps you'll want to take to ensure longevity and a quality finish, the result can be striking and unique.

It's true that wallpaper can get covered in grease and food waste more easily than other alternatives. However, that doesn't mean it's impossible to make this technique work. Depending on your overall budget and plan for your space, you have a few different options to protect your wallpaper backsplash. The first step is to make sure you are installing the wallpaper correctly. Properly measure your space, calculate an additional 15% coverage, and read the instructions for how to line up the pattern. Be aware that the beginning of the roll does not always mean that's where the pattern begins. You can cut the wallpaper by using a ruler and a rotary cutter. Once you've prepped your paper, it's time to prep the wall itself and start the installation process.

Before you adhere your wallpaper, always thoroughly clean the area that will be covered. Make sure that the wall is completely dry after wiping it down. While the convenience might be tempting, peel-and-stick wallpaper has some major drawbacks, and it is not as resilient as traditional wallpaper. To give your backsplash optimal longevity, go with regular wallpaper with a separate adhesive. Use a smoothing tool and a smaller seam-smoothing tool to ensure that your wallpaper sticks against the wall. Consider the Art3d Smoothing Tool Kit on Amazon, which offers several helpful tools. You can also use a squeegee, a common cleaning tool to help install wallpaper effectively. For adhesive, the Roman Pro-880 Wallpaper Adhesive is a top-rated option, also on Amazon.

Once your wallpaper is covering your backsplash, you have a few options for sealing the surface. One of the easiest solutions is to double-seal your wallpaper with a flat varnish, such as Polyvine Decorator's Dead Flat Varnish. A more involved option is to add a layer of tempered glass on top of the wallpaper. While it is more time-consuming, it will create an easier surface for clean-up. For the simplest solution, thicker, water-resistant wallpaper is available online. Overall, using wallpaper is an easy and stylish DIY backsplash idea for your kitchen or bathroom.