Kitchen Backsplash Alternative Looks That Use Unexpected Flooring Materials

People don't always give much thought to kitchen backsplashes. A good backsplash needs to be durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. And you know what else needs to be all of these things? Floors! That's why flooring materials like tiles or wood are a creative alternative for your backsplash.

You read that right. You should consider using some flooring materials to make your backsplash. There are a few reasons why this might be the right move for you. First, if you have leftover floor material and you don't know what to do with it. Instead of letting it go to waste and buying brand new materials for your backsplash, you could kill two birds with one stone. Another reason you might be a good fit for this is if you're picky and can't seem to find your perfect backsplash material in the kitchen aisle. Flooring materials open up a new world of possibilities and allow you to create something truly unique.

Floor tiles are a good option for DIY kitchen backsplashes because they're built to be durable. Floor tiles are designed not to crack, even under repeated foot traffic. That added durability makes floor tiles a smart choice for your kitchen backsplash.

Aesthetically, it can add a really distinctive twist. For example, you could use the same tiles for both your floor and backsplash to create a modern, cohesive look in your kitchen. If you're looking for something more unique, consider using the tile to create patterns such as a two-toned checkerboard. Incorporate individual accent tiles for fun pops of color and even more personality.

Nonetheless, there are some caveats you should consider before you hit the ground running. Specifically, floor tiles are generally heavier than those designed for walls, and they're not always suitable for vertical setups. The key is to consider the total weight, including the tile itself, the adhesive, and the grout. Once you've calculated this, look into whether the type of wall that you'll be setting up the backsplash on can withstand that weight. Cement walls can support much heavier tile than plaster can, for example. But if you want to avoid any issues, consult a professional or do thorough research before you start gluing tile to your wall.

Hardwood and wood laminate flooring materials can also make great kitchen backsplashes. If you've just finished re-doing your floors and have some pieces of wood left, you can totally turn them into a kitchen backsplash. Style-wise, a wood backsplash is a great way to give your kitchen some beautiful, timeless charm. It brings a lot of warmth to a kitchen and turns it into a cozy gathering place.

If the planks you are hoping to reuse on your backsplash are hardwood, the project will be a bit more complex and demanding. Indeed, wood needs to be properly sealed to be protected against water damage. And similar to tile, wood can be quite heavy, which means not all walls are a right fit.

However, wood laminate floors are a great alternative that don't require all of that extra work. This synthetic material made of wood fibers has the same warmth and beauty as wood but is a bit easier to install and lighter, meaning it's well-suited for most walls. That said, not all wood laminate is equally resistant to water. Look for wood laminate flooring materials that are specifically designed for this and can withstand regular exposure to water. These can be used in bathrooms and, you guessed it, kitchens!