What can I do if I hate my backspash?

I was thinking of replacing the tile but worried about the expense since we just put it up a few months ago (bad advice from family). Will have to pay to have it removed, new tile and to have it put back up. But I am really thinking hard about it.

Hi, Jeanie,

This is really distressing! I had "advice" from family re: multiple renovations, but fortunately went with what I wanted...after all, we're living with it, and we're paying for it. I feel your anguish.

Is the tiled area quite expansive? If so, you might try painting some tiles, to see if could could live with it.

If you do decide to take it out, see if you can get a "loaner board" of tile to try at home under various times of day and night before committing.

Tile is such a subjective choice given changes in "popular " colors, shapes, textures. Artisan tile looks fabulous, but it can be a nightmare to keep pristine. Insure your grout color and type works best for you. My girlfriend installed horribly expensive 3D tile, but had sanded grout installed, which she subsequently ruined with her cleaning methods...the tile center told her it was ruined beyond repair.

If you do select another tile, visit various dealers. You'll be amazed at the wide variation in cost for the exact same tile. Get a long time, highly experienced installer, and take all the time you need before making final selections.

I wish you the best of luck!

Thank you for your advice. I will take my time to decide but my mind keeps going back to new tile but because of the cost of having someone removing what I have, buying new tile and having someone install it, it just seems kind of overwhelming.

Hi, again!,

Just a dumb question, but if spacing permits, and you're not dealing with 3-4 walls of tile, could you place a wall mural over the tile(s), then enclose it/them behind glass, using mirror clips to secure to wall?

Tiling is so stressful!

If you or your husband are skilled, you could have the grey removed, repair the wall if needed, and attempt the tiling, yourself. There are tiling clinics at home stores, and many good books and videos on the topic. Even Tom Silva, of "This Old House" shows how to install backsplash tile, with the homeowner finishing the job.

If you considering more expensive tiles such as Walker Zanger or Ann Zacks, or even imported porcelains, then it would make sense to have professional installation.

If you decide to have grey removed and want to take your time to decide on replacement, you can always paint walls with semi gloss paint to facilitate kitchen clean ups.

Let us know how things turn out for you, and don't make yourselves crazy over this. The grey will not be a lifelong fixture...

Can you put it over existing tile ?