Wood Tile Backsplash

11 years ago

Hello! I have just started a small kitchen remodel, and have gotten our heavily shellacked dark wood cabinets painted a peachy cream. While looking at tile yesterday, I found this "ash" wood grain tile (normally used for flooring), that I would really like to use for our backsplash. I have seen a few examples, but not really the look I'm going for. I want the tiles to be positioned horizontally and staggered.

My questions:
1. Because of the weight/large size of the tiles, do we need a backer board? Any other technical concerns we may run into?

2. Any suggestions for working around outlets? (Again, because of the size of tiles, it may look awkward) I would rather "notch" them rather than have several random pieces.

3. Will this look weird???

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Patricia Colwell Consulting

11 years ago

I would use a honed plain slate for the counter and let that tile be the star. As for matching the shelving I would not try it will never look the same as the tile and will make you crazy just leave they stained in a pale gray.This is a floor but I think this is what you want for a layout if the tiles are 6" wide you should be able to get 3 rows and it should look very cool. Any good tile installer can do this and as for plugs and switches they now come in colors to match Leviton makes the actual swithches and plates so check them out for that wall to blend in.

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Comments (8)

magada
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
I can imagine that this could present some technical difficulties but i'm sure a tiling expert will be forthcoming with the solution.
Maybe give the tile dimensions ?
I'm replying because i just love this color palette. Where do the two blues come into your kitchen design ?
I don't at all think this will look weird, on the contrary, it could be amazing, you have great taste.
Can't wait to see result so please keep us updated with photos and best of luck.
ebflint
Original Author
11 years ago
magada, thank you! The Blues will be on the opposing wall with long thick wood planks for shelving (I'd like to distress them a bit/match the color of the tile) to tie the different "woods" together. I'm also trying to figure out counters. I'm definitely on a tiny budget and want something really simple. I want the tile to pull everything together.
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ebflint
Original Author
11 years ago
I meant to add the dimensions: (Common: 6-in x 36-in; Actual: 5.79-in x 35.69-in)

http://m.lowes.com/pd/Style-Selections-Natural-Timber-Whitewash-Glazed-Porcelain-Indoor-Outdoor-Floor-Tile-Common-6-in-x-36-in-Actual-5-79-in-x-35-69-in/50253115
magada
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
Well thats some weight but i've just thought that one piece marble splash backs exist so if they can hold then your tile must be able to as well.
Have you thought of doing the counter top in the same tile ( if it doesn't overload on wood texture of course) ?
If it can work then you may need an edging solution : http://www.lulusoso.com/products/Tile-Edge-Trim.html
The tiler could then do both jobs at the same time = more $ saving \o/ !
ebflint
Original Author
11 years ago
Magada, I was thinking about using it for the counter as well, but think it might be too much "wood?"

Patricia, yes! Slate countertops would look awesome! I don't know anything about them, so that is my next research project;) thank you for all your tips-- I'm excited to look at those switch plates. As for the wood shelves, I agree matching completely would be crazy, but a light gray stain will get them in the ballpark!

Thank you both for your ideas! I'm excited!
magada
11 years ago
Yes, i thought it probably would Emily, was just exploring "tiny budget" possibilities, slate would of course be fabulous and so much choice there too.

*First time i've ever seen anyone get excited about switch plates ‡D
magada
11 years ago
Hi Emily,
Have you finished work yet ?
I'd just love to see the result.