Friday, October 21, 2011

BACKSPLASH REDO

 
DIY WEEKEND PROJECT!
Tired of the outdated tile, it was time to transform the mood of our kitchen and freshen up the backsplash.  With the walls and cupboards freshly repainted, & hardware updated, the tile backsplash looked out of place, out-of-date and grungy.  

Phase 1: Research  
I surfed the net, looked through countless magazines and design books before coming up with photos of our top three favorite backsplash idea/options that suited our budget.

Phase 2: Demolition
The process of removing the old tile was a bear!  I discovered the old ceramic tile had been Super Glued and set in cement!  Half the drywall was removed with the tile!!! Shoot a pickle!  Now what?  

Phase 3: Plan B
If the wall had been sound, our preference would have been to repaint the drywall for a timeless look.  That wasn't happening!  It was time for PLAN B; cover the gouged walls space with something I COULD paint! 


We opted for primed bead board and installed it vertically above the countertop and behind all appliances for a uniform look.  We caulked the cracks and edges for a clean, smooth look.  Next, two coats of bright white paint were brushed onto the surface to reflect the light creating a clean, easy-to-scrub backdrop. Voila! The kitchen has been transformed into a lovely, clean, bright place to decorate, cook and entertain.  

It was the best weekend redo project ever! 
The photos at the top of the page inspired our 'PLAN B'
I really liked the clean look and vertical lines of wide bead board. :)


Ready to try your hand at transforming your kitchen with a new backsplash?  It does not have to be uber-expensive or fancy schmancy. Simple, transforming options include: Paint, wallboard or tile.  Current trends lean toward open shelving and painted backsplashes.  Cheers to inexpensive options being in vogue!  If your walls are sound, paint is a quick, inexpensive, easy redo!  Some backsplash options require a higher skill level than painting... extensive tile work is not quick, easy or inexpensive. Hire a professional if your backsplash ideas are beyond your abilities, and kiss the weekend project good bye.


Peruse the gallery of photos below to whet your appetite.  Options are shown for a variety of skill levels.  For more ideas, google 'backsplash' or visit sites like: Better Homes and Gardens (bhg.com) for do-it-yourself project ideas. Your local library, bookstore or home improvement center will have ideas & books on the subject as well. 


Now, that we have been through the 'BACKSPLASH REDO' process... we would highly recommend:


Research first.  
Create a file of photo ideas. 
Create a budget.
Keep only the idea photos within your budget.
Shop for supplies.  
Set aside a weekend.
GO FOR iT!

 


 
Photos are provided courtesy of Google and Pinterest.