Brick backsplashes have become a popular trend in kitchen design. They add a touch of rustic charm and warmth to any kitchen.
They can be used to create a focal point or a statement wall and also serve to protect the walls from splashes that can cause stains while cooking.
In this article, I will share (You may click the topics below) :
–Stunning brick backsplash design ideas
–Pros & Cons of brick backsplashes
–Care and maintenance tips for brick backsplash
Let’s understand, why do we need a backsplash ?
Backsplashes are used to cover the wall behind the cooking area in a kitchen. They serve both functional and aesthetic purpose.
They protect the wall from splashes and stains and also serve as a decorative element.
Brick backsplashes offer a lot of benefits and have been a top choice. Here are the some major reasons that will make you want to use brick backsplashes in your kitchen.
Timeless Charm : Brick has been used as a building material for centuries, and its rustic charm and authenticity never go out of style.
Durability: Brick is known for its exceptional durability and longevity, making it a wise investment for your kitchen.
Versatility : Brick backsplash comes in various styles, colors, and patterns, allowing you to choose the perfect one that complements your kitchen decor.
Pairing a red brick with wooden cabinets, open shelves, and vintage-inspired hardware is perfect for a farmhouse or cottage style kitchen to create the Rustic Charm.
For a trendy and urban look, go for a brick backsplash with an industrial twist.
Choose bricks in muted tones like gray or white with a smooth finish for a sleek and modern aesthetic and create an Industrial chic style kitchen.
If you’re aiming for a classic and timeless look, consider a white brick backsplash.
This post is about brick backsplashes.
STUNNING BRICK BACKSPLASHES
Grey Brick Backsplash Kitchen with White Cabinet Kitchen
Grey kitchen brick backsplash paired with white countertops and white cabinets.
Red brick backsplash kitchen with white marble
Red brick backsplash used around the marble inset wall with shelves.
Brick Backsplash Pattern with Stained Vent hood
Solid brick backsplash with stained vent hood and white countertops. The bricks are installed in a herringbone pattern only above the stove to create a focal point.
Brick Backsplash in Herringbone Pattern
Red brick installed in a herringbone pattern with soap stone countertops.
Brick Backsplash kitchen with White Cabinet kitchen
The red bricks look amazing in this white kitchen.
White Brick Backsplash in Modern Farmhouse Kitchen
White bricks are used on the entire Wall and a black granite is installed right above the cooking area to minimize the maintenance on bricks.
Red Brick in Blue Cabinet kitchen
Blue cabinets go very well with red brick backsplashes.
Brick Backsplash and Black countertops
If you are wanting to go bold, black countertops can be paired with red brick backsplashes.
Red Brick with Grey Countertops
Quartz countertops come in variety of colors. This grey counter looks perfect with brick backsplash.
White brick backsplash with black cabinets
Loving this classic timeless black and white kitchen.
Brick Backsplash and Copper Vent Hood
Brick backsplash work very well with copper vent hoods.
Blue Island and Brick Backsplash
A subtle lighter color of bricks with blue and white cabinets.
Black brick backsplash with black countertop
Black with black can also be achieved with brick backsplashes. Note that the black bricks are the brick look tiles that are available in clay or porcelain material.
Red Brick and Butcher Block countertops
Perfection with butcher block counter and red brick backsplash.
Is a brick backsplash right for your kitchen ?
Yes, a brick backsplash can be a great addition to your kitchen, depending on your style preferences and overall design aesthetic.
Here are the Pros & Cons of Brick backsplashes.
PROS OF REAL BRICK BACKSPLASHES
Brick possesses a timeless rustic appeal that is unmatched by other materials. It boasts impressive durability and strength, able to withstand significant wear and tear.
Heat resistance is also a notable feature of brick, alleviating concerns about its performance in high-temperature areas.
Furthermore, brick offers a unique aesthetic that can infuse your home with a distinctive and unparalleled charm.
When it comes to design, brick backsplashes provide endless possibilities.
CONS OF REAL BRICK BACKSPLASHES
Untreated brick has a porous nature, which makes it susceptible to stains from liquids that may splash against it.
As a result, a solid brick or thin brick backsplash may require a protective coating of clear polyurethane sealant (in a matte or satin finish) to prevent staining.
If brick is left unsealed and exposed to prolonged moisture, it can gradually crumble over time.
It’s worth noting that applying a sealant or paint can address many of these concerns.
The rough texture and crevices of brick, including the mortar between the bricks, can make cleaning challenging.
Another potential issue with real brick backsplashes is the occurrence of efflorescence, which is a powdery residue composed of white mineral deposits.
They might start showing up on the surface.
Types of Brick Backsplashes
Genuine brick exudes a sense of sentimentality, coziness, and unparalleled personality. There are two primary choices to explore when it comes to integrating brick into your space.
SOLID BRICK
You can consider using regular bricks to create an exposed brick backsplash, which will give your kitchen an authentic brick wall appearance.
However, keep in mind that regular bricks can be bulky and heavy, occupying space and adding weight to your kitchen.
If you plan to create a complete brick wall, ensure that your kitchen can handle the additional load.
Alternatively, if you only wish to incorporate brick between your kitchen counter and upper cabinets, opting for thinner brick options would be more practical.
THIN BRICK / BRICK VENEER
A slim brick backsplash, also known as a brick veneer backsplash, can provide you with the genuine brick appearance you desire, as it is made of real brick, but it’s only ¾ inch thick.
This makes it more manageable to work with in a backsplash area or even on larger walls in your kitchen.
With a thin brick backsplash, you can enjoy the benefits of authentic brick without the drawbacks of excessive weight, high cost, and bulkiness.
Types of BRICK-LOOK (Faux brick backsplash)
There are several different types of Brick look (faux brick) backsplash options available like tiles, wall paper and panels. Here are the different options :
Tiles
There are a lot of tile options available. Ceramic and porcelain tiles that look like brick, can be found with a lot more color options, sizes and texture.
Natural stone brick look tiles
Marble is one of the most popular brick look options.
Thin Terracota Brick tiles
The Terracotta tiles are available in brick look tiles. When installed they give the same effect.
Clay brick
Clay bricks are also a good option and are available in various colors and textures.
Ceramic Brick Look Tiles
Ceramic tiles are available in various colors. They tend to be thinner in thickness.
Zellige Brick Tiles
Zellige tiles are handmade and have the not so perfect look which has been very trendy.
Porcelain Brick Look bevel Tiles
Bevel tiles give a lot more dimension. These bevel look porcelain tiles are unique.
Porcelain Brick Look Glossy Tiles
These glossy brick tiles are longer than normal brick tiles.
Brick panels
The High Density polyurethane brick panels are a good option if you do not want to use the real brick.
The Foam Brick panels are another option that are available in the market.
Brick Look Wall Paper
The latest wallpaper is designed with a self-adhesive (peel-and-stick) feature, making it simple to apply and remove.
They are also available at Lowes.
Pros and Cons of a Faux Brick Backsplash
Pros of Book Look (Faux) Backsplash :
If you’re concerned about issues like absorbency, efflorescence, sealing, maintenance, and cleaning when it comes to real brick, you might want to consider using faux brick instead.
Faux brick is not affected by humidity or moisture, and its color won’t fade over time like real brick might.
Additionally, faux brick is generally more affordable and easier to install compared to real brick. It’s also durable and can last for years, and it may be easier to remove if needed.
Cons of Brick Look (Faux) Backsplash :
Certain varieties of faux brick may appear inexpensive or gaudy, which may not align with the upscale aesthetic you desire for your kitchen.
Moreover, faux brick is unlikely to enhance the value of your home, and if it doesn’t look authentic, it could potentially decrease your resale value.
Additionally, depending on the type of faux brick you choose, it may require grout or caulking for installation, and if you opt for pre-made panels or wallpaper, you may have limited flexibility in arranging the faux bricks in a different pattern.
It’s worth noting that if faux brick is constructed from PVC, it could pose a fire hazard, although many types are treated to be fire-resistant.
Furthermore, some faux brick designs may have a pronounced texture that could make cleaning more challenging compared to a smooth tile surface.
Similar Post you may like : Common Backsplash Mistakes: A Guide to Avoiding Costly Errors
Brick Backsplashes for Different Interior Design Styles
Brick backsplash work well with a lot of different interior design styles.
Here are some of the most popular ones :
Modern Style : For a modern and edgy look, consider pairing a brick backsplash with industrial chic elements such as stainless steel appliances, open shelving, and exposed pipes.
The contrast between the raw texture of brick and the sleekness of industrial elements creates a visually stunning and unique kitchen design that is both functional and stylish.
My Favorite Modern Style Kitchens with brick backsplash on my Pinterest.
Farm House Style : Pair your brick backsplash with shaker-style cabinets, apron-front sinks, and vintage-inspired fixtures for a cozy and welcoming ambiance. Consider using white-washed bricks for a softer and more muted look that complements the farmhouse aesthetic.
My favorite farmhouse style kitchens with bricks on Pinterest.
Contemporary Design Style: Brick, glass, steel, metal, and wood materials are well-suited for this particular style.
My Favorite contemporary style kitchens with brick backsplash on Pinterest.
Tuscan Style Interior Design : This classic Italian aesthetic embraces the use of high-quality natural materials such as untreated wood, natural stone.
My Favorite Tuscan style kitchens with brick backsplash on Pinterest.
French-style : In French kitchens, a traditional Old World ambiance is achieved by incorporating natural stone, brick, and wood materials.
My Favorite French Style kitchens with brick backsplash on Pinterest.
Shabby Chic Design Style : This design style combines rustic and playful contemporary elements.
Achieve the rustic aspect by incorporating weathered or reclaimed wood, aged finishes, weathered brick or natural stone, or whitewashed elements.
My Favorite Shabby Chic kitchens with brick backsplash on Pinterest.
Mediterranean Design Style : Pair your brick backsplash with terra cotta floor tiles, wrought iron fixtures, and colorful ceramics for a vibrant and inviting kitchen.
Consider using bricks with earthy tones such as terracotta or sandstone for an authentic Mediterranean look.
My Favorite Mediterranean style kitchen with brick backsplash on Pinterest.
Rustic Design Style : This design aesthetic thrives on texture and history. Incorporating reclaimed wood beams, weathered natural stone, and worn brick can add the perfect touch to achieve this look in a kitchen.
My Favorite rustic style kitchens with brick backsplash on Pinterest.
Brick Backsplash Colors
Bricks come in various colors, allowing for a diverse range of choices when it comes to brick backsplashes. Some popular colors for brick backsplashes are :
-red brick backsplash
-weathered brick backsplash
-white brick backsplash
-whitewashed brick backsplash
-black brick backsplash
-brown brick backsplash
-gray brick backsplash
I have an entire Pinterest Board with all the different colors of brick backsplash kitchens.
DIY How to Install Brick Backsplash
Here is a good video, if you are wanting to install brick backsplash yourself .
CLEANING BRICK BACKSPLASHES
Common Challenges in Cleaning Brick Backsplash:
- Dirt and grime buildup in the porous surface of brick.
- Stains and grease marks that can be difficult to remove.
- Mold and mildew growth in damp areas.
- Efflorescence, a white powdery residue that forms on the surface of brick due to water penetration.
- Discoloration and fading of the brick due to exposure to sunlight and harsh cleaning chemicals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Brick Backsplash
Cleaning brick backsplash requires careful attention and the right techniques to avoid damaging the surface. Here is a step-by-step guide to clean brick backsplash effectively:
Step 1: Prepare the area
Start by removing any loose debris and items from the backsplash area. Cover nearby surfaces and countertops with plastic sheets or drop cloths to protect them from cleaning solutions.
Step 2: Dust and vacuum
Use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs from the brick surface. Pay close attention to the grout lines and crevices.
Step 3: Spot clean stains
Mix a mild detergent or dish soap with water to create a soapy solution. Use a soft brush or sponge to spot clean stains and grease marks on the brick surface. Avoid using abrasive brushes or harsh chemicals that can damage the brick.
Step 4: Rinse thoroughly
Use a clean damp cloth or sponge to rinse off the soapy solution from the brick surface. Make sure to remove all the soap residue to prevent streaks and soap scum.
Step 5: Dry the surface
cloth or towel to pat dry the brick surface. Avoid leaving any excess moisture on the brick, as it can promote mold and mildew growth.
Step 6: Seal the brick (optional)
If desired, you can apply a brick sealer to protect the surface from dirt, stains, and moisture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and drying time.
Tips for Maintaining Brick Backsplash
Apart from regular cleaning, there are some tips you can follow to maintain your brick backsplash and keep it looking its best:
- Wipe up spills and splashes immediately to prevent staining.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the brick surface.
- Use a soft brush or cloth for regular cleaning to prevent scratching the brick.
- Keep the brick backsplash dry to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Consider resealing the brick every few years to maintain its protective barrier.
FAQ :
Can I install a brick backsplash myself?
Yes, brick backsplashes can be installed as a DIY project, but it requires careful preparation and attention to detail.
It’s important to follow proper installation techniques and use the right materials for a successful installation.
What is the cost of installing a brick backsplash?
The cost of installing a brick backsplash can vary depending on factors such as the type of bricks, installation method, labor costs, and location.
It’s best to get quotes from multiple contractors or suppliers to determine the cost for your specific project.
The installation can range from $20 – $40 per square foot. The cost of brick backsplashes can range from $15 – $20 per square foot.
Can I use any type of brick for a backsplash?
There are various types of bricks available, and not all of them may be suitable for a backsplash. It’s important to choose a brick that is meant for interior use, has the desired color and texture, and is compatible with the installation method you choose.
How do I clean a brick backsplash?
Brick backsplashes can be cleaned with mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the bricks or mortar.
If stains occur, a mixture of water and vinegar can be used to remove them.
Can a brick backsplash be used in a modern kitchen?
Yes, brick backsplashes can be used in modern kitchens, depending on the type of brick, color, and installation pattern chosen.
Whitewashed or painted bricks, for example, can create a modern and sleek look when paired with contemporary kitchen design elements.
Should brick backsplash be sealed?
Yes, Brick backsplashes should be sealed.
This post is about Brick backsplashes
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