Backsplash Subway Tiles – Reinvigorate Your Rooms

SUBWAY TILE BACKSPLASH

Backsplashes have become the backbone of so many of our kitchens and bathroom spaces. And it is no wonder why. Durable and water-resistant, they are a highly practical way of introducing style and color to your rooms. Whether it be in a kitchen or bathroom, laundry or mudroom, these tiled features have become an essential part of our interiors: protecting our walls and keeping a bright and sanitary appeal thanks to their easy-to-clean qualities. 

And it doesn’t stop there. A well-installed subway tile backsplash can increase your home’s value. The subway tile has snowballed in popularity over the years, and a well-installed backsplash that works harmoniously with your interiors could be just the thing to catch someone’s eye. 

We have plenty of natural stone options too. Solid, durable and long lasting, a stone or marble subway tile backsplash has the added benefit of being eco-friendly. There isn’t much our range can’t offer for your subway tile backsplash. With every color under the sun to choose from, there is certainly something that will compliment your décor. 

Quite naturally, the tiles themselves will grab the limelight. But we shouldn’t forget it’s hard-working partner and unsung hero, the humble grout. Did you know we have several shades of grout to choose from? These can play an essential role in enhancing the beauty of your tile and helping it to sit in with your overall design scheme.

Our rapid setting grout is just the thing for your project. Fixing your tiles 50% faster than average grout, it is also anti-microbial and water resistant, helping to guard against bacteria, mold, and mildew. Using this product in inventive colorways will bring interest to your kitchen or bathroom subway tile backsplash. It is a fun way to express your design personality and really add something new. 

WHITE SUBWAY TILE BACKSPLASH

For something so simple and understated, white subway tiles are a cultural icon. From their roots in the New York Subway they quickly garnered popularity anywhere a clean, bright and sanitary air was required. Kitchens, bathrooms, food shops and hospitals all welcomed this unique and versatile shape and its easy-to-clean surface.

It is little wonder that we are embracing the white subway tile backsplash with open arms, in what seems to be a never-ending love story. But who can blame us? A white subway tile backsplash is the number one classic solution for bathrooms, creating a fresh space that can be accessorized with anything you like. As the years turn, and trends change, a crisp white backsplash with matching fixtures will prove to have been the workhorse of interior design.

A white subway tile backsplash is a natural choice for kitchens, bathrooms, guest baths and laundry rooms. Choose glossy tiles for their bright reflective properties that convey order and cleanliness. Matte and semi-gloss finishes will bring a mellow softness to your aesthetic, as will off-white shades that tone well with brighter shades and pastels.

As no two whites are the same, a monochrome of whites can add depth and dimension for a soothing, cloud-like look. The best thing about white is that it goes with absolutely everything, so whether you are pairing it with wooden or fashionable high gloss cabinets in stylish muted colors, the white subway tile can always find a comfortable place for itself in your scheme.

SUBWAY TILE BACKSPLASH - KITCHEN AND BATHROOM IDEAS

Subway tiles are often preferred to square tiles for backsplashes because of the interest their shape offers to interior design. While there are beautiful options in other dimensions, a subway tile backsplash can be brought to life by choosing an attractive layout, that brings as much personality and charm as the tile itself.  

A backsplash does not have to be full coverage. If you’ve spotted an exceptional color, or interesting design that you love, but just don’t think it will suit a full wall, then use the tile judiciously for a lighter tiled look. In a kitchen, use the stove as a focal point and place most of the tiling in that area. Then along the walls just a few rows of tile above the countertop can be just what is needed to carry the design throughout the space, without overwhelming your scheme.

If you prefer to keep the backsplash only for the stove, a column of subways is stylish and effective. However, don’t forget you can orientate the tile to create interesting shapes such as elongated diamonds using a horizontal, offset classic layouts, or by placing the tiles on a diagonal. A herringbone pattern will add a pleasant zig zag if the edges are left unframed.

In the bathroom, you can keep the look light by tiling only the shower space and making a matching backsplash for the sink. This doesn’t have to run the full length of the fixtures. It can quite simply be the space directly behind the basin. Make a feature that echoes the stature of the shower space and take a column of subways from floor to ceiling, adding a feature mirror for maximum impact. Styling your bathroom with neutral subways accented with gold will allow you to bring opulence and warmth in an understated way.

HOW TO INSTALL SUBWAY TILE BACKSPLASHES IN YOUR BATHROOM

Prepare your workspace to protect against sharp tools and adhesive splashes. Find the centre of the wall and lay out the tiles to see how they will fit. If both edges of the wall require slim pieces to be cut, shift the layout along fractionally, so the trimmed edges are abutting the wall that is least visible on entering the room, or may be concealed partly by the door. Next, working in sections, spread adhesive onto the wall at a 45-degree angle to keep a uniform depth and affix the tiles. Using plastic tile spacers will keep them an equal distance apart. Once set, finish with grout and seal if necessary.

HOW TO CHOOSE SUBWAY TILE BACKSPLASH 

Choosing your subway tile backsplash is a fun, creative thing to do. There are so many different types and shades of subway tile in our selection you will be spoilt for choice. Color and pattern are the two main elements you will want to focus on. Choose the color you like most, and then consider how you will arrange them. The versatile shape of subway tiles readily lends itself to various tile layouts: classic, horizontal and vertical stacked, herringbone and basketweave to name but a few.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO INSTALL SUBWAY TILE BACKSPLASH?

It will take two to three days to install your subway tile backsplash, depending on the size of the installation. This will give you plenty of opportunity to prepare your working area properly before you begin. You can’t rush perfection so allowing at least a weekend for your project should leave you with ample time to fix the tile and to allow it to set fully before grouting.