Kitchen backsplash tile: Ceramic vs. Glass

A kitchen backsplash is a great way to update the look of your kitchen. It can be relatively inexpensive and if the right tile is chosen, it can be a good do it yourself project that can be done in a weekend. The two most widely used types of tile today are: ceramic and glass. The pros and cons of both are discussed below.

Ceramic tile is the most popular tile type. There are two types: glazed and unglazed. The glazed tile is easy to clean and does not stain easily.  Unglazed tile can stain and to keep this from happening needs to be sealed. This type of tile is the easiest to install without a contractor. It comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes to meet your needs.

Glass tile also comes in a wide variety of colors and styles. It is a very practical choice and can be made of recycled materials. Recycled glass tiles are a good choice for people who want something that is eco friendly.  These tiles are easy to clean and do not stain. However, they are easily scratched.  Selecting cloudy colors might help with this problem.

The cost of ceramic kitchen tiles range from a dollar a tile to upwards of 20 dollars. It just depends on how they are made. Glass tiles can cost anywhere from 25 dollars a square foot to more than 50 dollars a square foot. A more intricate the design will cost more. Applying tile to just the parts above the countertop will save money.

Both ceramic and glass tiles are good choices when installing a kitchen backsplash.  It just depends on personal preferences and budget when choosing between the two.  Prices can widely vary, so shopping around is a good idea once you make up your mind on type and style.