Beyond Bending Tell You How
When renovating a kitchen or bathroom, one of the key design elements to consider is the backsplash. The backsplash is a protective surface that extends from the countertop to the bottom of the cabinets. It not only protects the walls from moisture and stains but also adds an aesthetic touch to the overall look of the room. One of the main questions that arise when planning a backsplash is the average square footage needed to cover the area. In this article, we’ll discuss the average backsplash square footage and some factors that can influence it.
What is the Average Backsplash Square Footage?
The average backsplash square footage can vary depending on the size of the kitchen or bathroom. Generally, the backsplash area ranges from 15 to 25 square feet. However, this number can increase or decrease based on the height of the backsplash, the tile size, and the layout of the room.
Factors Affecting Backsplash Square Footage
Several factors can affect the square footage needed for a backsplash. Here are some of the main ones:
Height of the Backsplash
The height of the backsplash can significantly affect the square footage required. The standard height for a backsplash is 18 inches from the countertop, but some homeowners prefer a taller backsplash that reaches up to the cabinets or even the ceiling. In this case, the square footage required will increase accordingly.
Tile Size and Pattern
The size and pattern of the tile also play a role in determining the square footage for a backsplash. Smaller tiles like subway tiles or mosaic tiles require more grout lines and therefore more tiles to cover the same area as larger tiles. Similarly, intricate patterns like herringbone or chevron will require more cuts and therefore more tiles to complete the design. As a result, the square footage needed will increase.
Layout of the Room
The layout of the room can also affect the backsplash square footage. For instance, if the room has many corners, angles, or obstacles like windows or vents, it will require more cuts and more tiles to fit the space. On the other hand, a straight wall with no interruptions will require fewer tiles and less square footage.
Calculating Backsplash Square Footage
To calculate the square footage needed for a backsplash, you need to measure the length and height of the area. Here’s how:
Step 1: Measure the Length
Using a measuring tape, measure the length of the area from one end to the other. Round up the measurement to the nearest inch. For instance, if the area is 63.5 inches long, round it up to 64 inches.
Step 2: Measure the Height
Next, measure the height of the area from the countertop to the bottom of the cabinets or the desired height of the backsplash. Round up the measurement to the nearest inch.
Step 3: Multiply the Length and Height
Multiply the length and height measurements to get the total square footage needed. For example, if the length is 64 inches and the height is 18 inches, the calculation would be:
64 x 18 = 1152 square inches
To convert square inches to square feet, divide the total by 144.
1152 / 144 = 8 square feet
Conclusion
Calculating the square footage needed for a backsplash can help you budget for materials and plan the design more effectively. The average backsplash square footage can vary depending on the height, tile size, and layout of the room. By measuring the length and height of the area and multiplying them, you can determine the total square footage needed for your backsplash project.
