How to Design and Install a Unique Kitchen Counter Backsplash

When it comes to kitchen remodeling the counter backsplash often suffers from a lack of creativity. Certainly there are the standard approaches of paint, tile, Formica, and other composites. While they all serve a practical purpose of being relatively easy to clean they usually don't fill the bill if you want something that stands out from what other people have in their houses. Fortunately the solution to this dilemma starts with 'tin' ceiling panels. In years past the embossed metal panels used in this approach were called tin ceiling panels. Today the most economical ones are made from aluminum on the order of 0.016 inches thick although panels made of tin are also available.

In planning your backsplash there are several things to consider.

1. Start by deciding whether you want to use tin or aluminum. Since the backsplash is used in an environment with splashed water, the aluminum panels have some benefits since they do not rust. On the other hand they aren't as resistant to dents as heavier gauge tin might be. Typically manufacturers will only produce either tin or aluminum panels, but not both. Copper panels are also made but much more expensive.

2. Depending on the company you purchase them from they will be 24" x 24" or 18" x 24" in size. Since the space between the kitchen counter and the bottom of the overhead cabinet is most often on the order of 18" using the 18" high panel leads to the least cutting and scrap. Measure the area to be covered and determine the number of panels required. If you are going to order online you will want to order an extra panel or two since most online sources have a minimum charge for shipping so you don't want to have to place two orders.

3. Look at the patterns offered by the dealers. Usually for the confined spaces of backsplashes you'll want the stamped pattern to have a repeat on the order of 6".

4. Decide whether you want to purchase panels that are precoated or if you will be painting them yourself. Here cost and the final type of finish you want should be taken into account. Preapplied coatings typically are baked on paint or surface treated metallic colors/finishes.