Subway backsplash ?

Peggy
by Peggy

How do I choose subway tile ? I just want a classic white. Should it be matte or glossy? Any particular brand?


  13 answers
  • Patty Patty on Jul 29, 2020

    What is your countertop? Take a pictire with you.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Jul 29, 2020

    The most important choice is grout and sealer. As for the tile, consider shape and ease of cleaning. Glossy will reflect the light more than matte and will be a bit easier to clean most likely. As for grout, make sure you choose a color that is versatile and seal on a regular basis. Whatever they recommend, I would cut by a few years because you will be most likely using harsher cleansers and degreasers on it.

  • Lindsay Aratari Lindsay Aratari on Jul 29, 2020

    Depends on the look you want. Here is what we did: https://www.aratariathome.com/blog/kitchen-backsplash

  • Oliva Oliva on Jul 29, 2020

    Be aware that some manufacturers offer 12" subway tiles, which will reduce the number of grout lines. Flat tiles will make for faster cleaning. If this is for a bath, Daltile had a handmade style which offers more texture to the bath, while still offering easy maintenance.

    Epoxy grouts, while very expensive, require little to no maintenance.

    Do not make the mistake of using white grout. There are an enormous number of epoxy grout colors from which to select.

    To facilitate cleaning and enhance shine in a bath, apply a good liquid car wax to only the tiles. Let dry to a haze, then buff with a soft cloth.

    No matter what you choose, daily cleaning is key.

  • Annie Annie on Jul 29, 2020

    Glossy white is the easiest to match up and clean. There are several different sizes, so choose one that will match the space between counter and upper cabinets.

  • Maura White Maura White on Jul 29, 2020

    IMO, I think the glossy really looks better!!

  • Agnes Chrzanowska Agnes Chrzanowska on Jul 29, 2020

    It all depends on your personal taste ... Post some kitchen pictures and I will try to advice since this is my field of expertise

  • Lauren of Mom Home Guide Lauren of Mom Home Guide on Jul 31, 2020

    It does depend on your personal preference. I really like glass subway tile with a beveled edge.

  • Lauren of Mom Home Guide Lauren of Mom Home Guide on Jul 31, 2020

    This tutorial talks about the differences and reasons why you'd choose either a matte or a shiny subway tile.

  • Chloe Crabtree Chloe Crabtree on Aug 01, 2020

    Select a size and finish you like the best. Subway tile is one of the most economical choices in tile.

  • Cindy Cindy on Aug 02, 2020

    Hi Peggy. Subway tile has come a long way than even ten years ago. Big selection of sizes and colors. Best advice: don't settle, pick one that you love. When installing the tile start in the center and work your way out. That way any cuts necessary will be at the edges. Purchase 10% more than you need. And if you ever sell the house, leave it behind for the next owner. Peggy, be sure to use unsanded grout on this project. Sanded grout is used on floors. Good luck.

  • Pick up a few sample tiles and set them where you plan to install them, see how they look in your space and that should help you decide.

  • Cheryl A Cheryl A on Aug 03, 2020

    go to home depot or lowes and buy one or two pieces in different sizes and colors and finished and stack up in the area to see what you like best then return it (keep your receipt) we do this all the time