As a Realtor in Gulf Shores, I have toured thousands of homes and condos over the years and I must say, adding a backsplash is an easy way to create a big impact for your kitchen.

Whether you own a single family home or a condo, a backsplash delivers a positive punch to guests or buyers both conscously and unconscously.  I can't tell you how many times that I've heard, "Wow, check out the backsplash" or "nice backsplash".  

With the plethora of options these days, it's easy to get overwhelmed by so many options so I thought I would layout the basic types, then all you have to do is let your imagination go wild with design and color.

Types of Backsplashes for Your Kitchen

Paint

Photo: lovelyetc.com

Yes, paint!  You probably didn't think about this one but this could be the cheapest way to create a backsplash in your kitchen.  Even better, you may already have the paint in your garage.  You can buy pre-cut stencils or another take on this is to use pinstripe sized tape to make your own design.  The latter seems like too much work for me though.

What a fast and easy way to create depth under those cabinets without breaking the bank.

Beadboard

Photo: digsdigs.com

Beadboard comes in sheets that are usually 4 feet wide so this is another easy way to add a classy backsplash to the area.  I love the look of beadboard and you won't see this application too often as a backsplash but it sure gives off a classy vibe.  The picture above has that coastal feel that we see down here in Gulf Shores condos.

A contractor could be used here for the installation but most people could make this happen without much experience.  

Faux Stone

Photo: fauxpanels.com

Wow, how far technology and design has come!  Faux stone or brick brings a load of texture and color to an otherwise "blah" space.  These stunning veneer panels come in a wide variety of styles and colors.

Better yet, this product which is made from high density polyurethane can be easily cleaned and will not stain which is perfect for kitchens.

Tin Ceiling Tiles

Photo: DIYnetwork.com

Get this stylish and stunning look by using metalic celing tiles for your backsplash.  Other than the purchase of the actual tiles, which can be purchased at Home Depot, you will need tin snips, a level, construction adhesive, and silicone caulk.

If you have to work around a receptacle, measure and mark the area to be removed on the tile, then use a drill to allow a starting spot to cut with the tin snips.

Peel N Stick

Photo: Amazon

My how far we have come when you can buy something that is so simple and looks so good.  You can find these products all over the place and they come in an assortment of styles and colors.  This is definitely a Do-It-Yourself project and what a difference this will make to your boring kitchen.

Tile

Photo: tryfivestar.com

Tile backsplashes are what we are most familiar with and they are made in a variety of materials:

• glass
• ceramic
• natural stone
• Marble
• Metal
• porcelain
• engineered stone

Depending on how brave you are, you might opt to take on this project on your own versus hiring a pro.  I did it myself and it turned out pretty good.  What helps is the myriad of Youtube videos on the subject that can take you through the process step by step.