It’s really up to you and what you like. Matte is the newer trend as opposed to gloss, but your the end user. If by looking at it your completely put off then I would change it because this is something your going to have to live with and your want to be happy with your choice. I think glossy would add a little more glam to your backsplash.

I agree it should be changed if it bothers you. FWIW from a non pro, think the matte looks really nice.

I guess I would test a tile with pasta sauce if it stains out it goes.

It looks great as is. Be sure to change out your outlets asap to the color of the tile. They jump out to me against the beautiful pattern and break it up.

Is there a reason why the cooktop was placed so far back?

The matte tile looks nice, but I prefer glossy, so I would choose to have it changed. Get a discount if you are fine with keeping it.

chispa- Thank you for your reply. I think the cooktop is set back because of that bump-out on the front of the counter. I found a photo from the model home and it looks like the cooktop is positioned the same. By the way, that is glass tile on the backsplash in the model.

I happen to like the look. however, I'd get a credit of some sort for the inconvenience. (for your builder to rip that out, buy new tile, and install, would cost him thousands. you're saving him a lot of trouble. so work out something that is good for both of you if you decide to keep it)

or, have him replace all of those outlets to a gray so they match the tile. those white outlets stand out like sore thumbs.

(code is every 3' or so. why did they give you two on each side, so close together?? The outlets right next to the stove are unnecessary. they should have put ONE outlet in the middle, on each side, and placed them up underneath the cabinet . If you have your tile redone, have them do this.

both finishes are beautiful in their own way. a bonus for the matte is that it might be more user friendly. gloss will show more cooking spatters.

I think it's very important to consider these kinds of practicalities when decorating, especially if you cook a lot.

I have a white matt herringbone backsplash and love it!

I think the matte is a happy accident, but I prefer matte tile. What matters is what you like! You should have what you specified, or get a concession for the mistake.

I am not a pro, by FWIW I like what you have now. As long as it can be cleaned easily, I would keep it (and try to get grey outlets, as Beth H. suggested, so that they match the backsplash).

Thank you ALL for your advice! We decided to stick with the matte tile. We spoke to the builder this morning and they have agreed to provide additional options, at no charge, in consideration for their mistake. Again, thanks to all who suggested that. We will also have the electric outlet plate covers changed to match the tile color.

“Mr. Contractor...you are aware that I had glossy tile in the contract. I could demand that you replace the matte with glossy, which would cost you a bundle. Some of my friends say glossy is better, while some say the matte is okay. I am so tired of all the mess and work going on that I am willing to settle for the matte. Let’s split the difference: I will accept a contract discount of $2000.”
I would try that with a serious face.

I clicked on this post because I've been searching for a matte backsplash tile. I think the matte is incredibly tasteful and as another poster said, a happy accident. It certainly suits your kitchen, and I'm happy you've come to an acceptable agreement with your contractor.

The glossy tile will clean up much better. Matte will show stains. Although they both look nice, I'd change it out.

I stick with what's easiest to clean and maintain.

@carynerz do you have a photo of the matte white herringbone backsplash? Interested in that look.

Here’s a photo, but our tile is not white.

Does it stain easily?

Mine wipes easily and nothing stains it! Here’s a couple pics.

Let me know if you need any more info :)

My matte white herringbone is smaller scale than @carynerz and also has no issues with staining, or anything else. I chose it because I have shiny counters and 4 large down to countertop windows...I wanted to avoid too much reflection. The matte has a very soft look to it, but it still bounces light back.