Revamping the look of your kitchen is always an attractive project when you’ve had the same thing for a while. It can also be an equally daunting one and pulling out the existing tile backsplash is something we may want to avoid. So, how can we change backsplash without removing tile?
To change kitchen backsplash without removing tile, it is possible to add a coat of paint or cover the backsplash with other materials. These include wood, tin, or beadboard. If the tiles are in good condition, it is easy to complete a cover-up job and have a satisfying result of a new backsplash.
So, assuming that the tile you already have isn’t cracked or uneven, then changing the backsplash without removing it should be fairly straightforward.
Read on to find out more.
Can you install new backsplash without removing tile?
It is possible to install a new backsplash over the existing tile. There are things to consider. But if you have a solid foundation of sturdy, neat and well-aligned tiles, you can install all kinds of new backsplash over the existing tile.
The first thing to do is to look at the overall quality of the tiles that are already there. If they are reasonably new, then they should be sturdy enough to accommodate a new backsplash over them. The same can be said if the tiles don’t seem to have much wear or tear to them.
The problems arise when you try to install a new backsplash over tiles that are uneven or cracked. This will affect the new backsplash, making it uneven and wonky as well. It also makes it harder for the new backsplash to properly adhere to the tiles.
If the tiles were inserted with proper tile and bricklaying tools, they should be neat and well-installed. This means they should be evenly placed with little to no damage. Then you can install a new backsplash without removing the tile.
Can you put wood backsplash over tile?
It is possible to put wood backsplash over tile, without removing the tile at all. This can be one of the best options for changing your backsplash! The wood can give your kitchen a cosy and rustic feel, or a more modern change if that’s what you’re seeking. You get to choose what kind of wood you would like. Then grab some liquid nails to adhere the planks to the tile.
There are many styles of wood that can achieve a variety of different aesthetics. This is what makes wood one of the best backsplash cover-up options. You can create a unique style with a custom job, using reclaimed wood. You can also get a more recognizable style with tongue-and-groove pieces sold in shops.
Either one of these options can create a great look for your kitchen and go right over your existing tile with no problems. It is a lot easier to source and install compared to creating brick backsplashes in your kitchen.
It’s a good idea to stain the wood before using it as your new backsplash. This will protect it in the long term from wear and tear since it will be near a lot of heat and will be frequently getting wet and stained.
Can you put peel and stick backsplash over tile?
For more of a budget option, peel and stick backsplash can go over tile, if the tile is even. However, many interior designers feel that peel and stick can look cheap, as it will not give you the same depth that you would get with real material.
That said, it can also last you a long time, at a fraction of the cost of other materials such as wood, brick or tile.
It’s also probably one of the easiest options to install yourself, saving you money on installation costs. There is no need for adhesive nails or long and time-consuming paint jobs. It just sticks right over.
Can you paint over tile backsplash?
You certainly can paint over tile backsplash, and this is one of the simplest ways to change up your backsplash. If you’re happy with the material, but less so with the colour or the shade, then this is going to be a good option for you. It’s also one of the most affordable.
You’ve got a huge variety of looks available with different kinds of paint—from matte, satin, to high-gloss. You could cover the whole tile backsplash in a single paint job or use stencils to create a secondary accent colour. This gives you the opportunity to paint your own design over tiles for a new backsplash.
The thing to consider with painting over the tiles is that you can’t cover up imperfections in the tiles. This includes cracked or uneven tile. These aspects won’t be hidden by a paint job.
Is it better to remove tile backsplash?
If your backsplash tiles have been cracked, damaged, improperly installed, or uneven, it’s better to remove them. It is difficult to properly install a new backsplash over damaged or uneven tiles. The damage can prevent a new backsplash from properly sticking to the tiles. If the tiles aren’t installed well and have cracks, they can break more with a new backsplash over them. This can cause both the tiles and new backsplash to come apart and potentially cause damage to your wall.
If you are in an older home, it could be best to remove the tiles anyway. This helps you be sure that you weren’t going to waste time or money on a new backsplash only for old tiles to mess it up. Every house and design is different though. You can seek a professional designer’s opinion. They may have other ideas to cover your tile backsplash. Or they could recommend removing the tile and starting fresh with a whole new backsplash.
If the tiles seem to be holding strong with no real imperfections, it can be quite easy to cover them with a new backsplash.
While you thinking about making changes to your kitchen, have you considered adding a second kitchen to your house? To do so, you will need quality bricklaying tools! Check out our Paragon Tools shop for all your bricklaying and masonry needs!
