Want something different for your backsplash that still fits in the neutral realm? You could get a dark kitchen backsplash that adds visual interest to your kitchen. Before you make that commitment, it’s important to weigh out your options. Read on to learn the pros and cons of dark kitchen backsplashes.
PRO – Bold Contrast against Light Cabinets and Countertops
If you’re a fan of contrast, a dark kitchen backsplash may be the perfect fit for you. White or light-colored cabinets will provide a sharp contrast against black, dark grey or navy.
With this in mind, not every homeowner likes bold contrast. You may prefer a more subtle design style that helps the room feel bigger and brighter. Any contrasting elements are going to stop a viewer’s eyes from moving around the room, which may make a small kitchen feel claustrophobic. If you have a larger kitchen or darker cabinets, this may not be an issue at all.
CON – Dark Kitchen Backsplash Shows Splatter Easily
A big drawback to dark backsplashes and dark countertops is that they show dirt and splatters easily. This isn’t ideal because a backsplash is designed to catch splatters. Some homeowners like this aspect because it allows them to pinpoint areas that need cleaning. Others find it to be too much maintenance and not worth the hassle.
PRO – Dark Grout Hides Grease Stains
You can use dark grout on a dark or light backsplash, so this pro is more universal. The dark color in the grout is liable to mask grease and oil stains, whereas light grout will accentuate it. If you use white or light grout for a dark kitchen backsplash, you may find yourself scrubbing the tile more than you like.
CON – Dark Colors Absorb Light and May Make the Kitchen Feel Smaller
Light colors reflect light. Dark colors absorb it. If your kitchen is small or dimly lit, a dark backsplash may add to the problem. You could combat some of this with under-cabinet lighting, but even that light will absorb into the backsplash. The only exception would be if you chose a high gloss finish to the backsplash, but then you have to worry about visible splatters once again.
PRO – Unique Feature That Most Homes Don’t Have
This may be the reason you’re drawn to dark backsplashes in the first place. They’re unique, and they certainly have their place in the design world. If you’re designing for your forever home and you love dark backsplashes, go for it! If you’re upgrading your home to sell in the future, you may opt for a more muted approach.
CON – May Limit Your Potential Pool of Buyers
A dark backsplash could wow potential buyers, but it could also be a turnoff for them. You might limit the number of people interested in your home because of your backsplash color. The fact is that kitchens sell homes, and many buyers are looking for something turnkey. Having a unique backsplash may not work in your favor.
How to Change Your Backsplash Color without Replacing the Backsplash
Whether you want to switch to a dark backsplash or switch from a dark kitchen backsplash, there are ways to change your backsplash color without demolition or replacement. If your backsplash is mostly made of textured drywall, you could simply paint it with a glossy finish. This will keep the backsplash easy to wipe down.
For tile, stone or laminate backsplashes, you could choose backsplash refinishing. This process creates a new coating over the existing surface, and it costs a fraction of what you’d spend for a new backsplash. The coating goes over grout lines and tile, which means you don’t have to scrub down your grout in the future.
Maryland Tub and Tile offers affordable backsplash refinishing, as well as countertop refinishing, bathroom tile refinishing, tub refinishing, and more. Contact us at 877-717-8827 to schedule your free estimate.
