A white porcelain tile backsplash can add an elegant and timeless look to any kitchen. Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for backsplashes because they are durable, easy to clean, and come in a wide range of styles. In this article, we’ll look at some of the benefits of using white porcelain tiles for your backsplash and provide inspiration with classic and stylish white porcelain tile backsplash ideas.
Why Choose White Porcelain Tile for a Backsplash?
White porcelain tile is a versatile and practical option for kitchen backsplashes. Here are some of the benefits of using white porcelain tile:
Timeless Look
A white porcelain backsplash has a clean, classic look that works with any kitchen decor from traditional to modern. The crisp white color reflects light and keeps the kitchen looking bright. Unlike paint, the color won’t fade or yellow over time.
Easy to Clean
Glazed porcelain tile resists stains, water markings, and grime better than other backsplash materials. Its non-porous surface makes it easy to wipe down messes.
Durable Material
Porcelain is fired at high temperatures, making it more durable and resistant to cracks or chips than ceramic tile. It can withstand heat and the everyday wear and tear of a kitchen.
Variety of Styles
From basic white subway tile to intricate patterns and 3D tiles, porcelain comes in a range of styles. You can find white porcelain to match any design aesthetic.
Enhances Other Colors
The neutral white backdrop enhances and reflects other colors in the kitchen. White porcelain tiles let accent colors like colorful appliances or painted cabinets really pop.
Classic White Porcelain Backsplash Ideas
For a clean and timeless look, you can’t go wrong with classic white porcelain tile backsplash designs:
White Subway Tile
White 3” x 6” subway tiles are a popular go-to choice for backsplashes. Their rectangular shape and standard size make them versatile and easy to install in a running brick pattern. They have a vintage, urban look reminiscent of old subway stations.
Subway tiles work great for both traditional and contemporary kitchen designs. For a twist, they can be installed in fun patterns like herringbone. Matte finish tiles have a subtler look, while glossy finish adds dimension and reflects more light.
Hexagon and Penny Tile
Tiny hexagon or dot-shaped penny tiles create a gorgeous honeycomb-like effect when installed. Their small size allows you to create delicate patterns and shapes. Batches of white hexagon or penny tiles can be arranged to resemble flowers, diamonds, grids, and other eye-catching designs.
These tiles have an elegant, vintage vibe perfect for farmhouse, Victorian, or Mediterranean style kitchens. Hexagon and penny tiles typically come in a glossy finish that amplifies their shine.
Beveled Edge Subway Tile
For added depth and dimension, consider white beveled-edge subway tiles. Each tile has a sloped, chamfered edge that creates subtle shadows and outlines. The beveled edges give the tiles more visual interest than flat-edged subway tiles.
Herringbone Pattern
The classic herringbone pattern has been used in architecture and design for centuries. It involves arranging rectangles in an interlocking zigzag design that resembles fish bones. The dynamic chevron shape looks striking on walls and backsplashes. You can create a herringbone backsplash with rectangular subway tiles or smaller mosaic tiles.
Stylish Modern White Porcelain Backsplash Ideas
White porcelain tile provides the perfect neutral backdrop to implement these fun and stylish backsplash trends:
Geometric Tiles
For a modern, avant-garde style, install geometric-shaped porcelain tile. Triangle, diamond, octagon, hexagon, and fish scale-shaped tiles can create cool futuristic patterns. Line up the shapes in uniform grids, or play around with asymmetry by shifting their alignment.
Geometric tiles often come in glossy finishes and metallic hues like silver, gold, or copper to enhance their ultra-modern vibe. But plain white porcelain geometric tiles can look equally sleek and contemporary.
Moroccan Fish Scale Tile
A popular trend inspired by Moroccan design is fish scale tiles. These porcelain tiles are shaped like overlapping semicircles resembling fish scales. Mixing white and blue fish scale tiles achieves the iconic Moorish style. But all-white fish scale tiles also have a striking look reminiscent of dragon scales.
Arabesque Tile
Arabesque tiles reference the ornate curving lines seen in Arabic architecture and Islamic art. The tiled patterns mimic the flowing shapes of vines, flowers, and curved leaves. Use stylized white porcelain Arabesque tiles alone or mix with solid white tiles for an elegant backsplash design.
Large Format Tiles
Oversized porcelain tiles like 12” x 24” or 16” x 32” create a contemporary, seamless look. Large format tiles minimize grout lines for a sleek, modern style. Porcelain plank tiles also enhance the contemporary vibe. The fewer seams and clean lines contribute to a spacious aesthetic.
3D Tiles
Textured 3D tiles add eye-catching depth and dimension to a backsplash. Options include ridged tiles, wavy tiles, cube tiles, and more. Mixing glossy and matte 3D tiles creates neat visual contrasts. 3D tiles work best for backsplashes in modern or transitional kitchen designs rather than traditional.
Metallic Tiles
Metallic tiles in pewter, silver, or gold bring glamour and sophistication to a kitchen backsplash. They have a luminous sheen that instantly classes up any space. Combine metallic porcelain tiles with plain white ones to temper the shine. Metallic backsplashes pair well with contemporary, art deco, or mid-century modern decor.
Design Ideas for White Porcelain Tile Backsplashes
Here are some stylish ways to design and install your white porcelain backsplash:
All-White Backsplash
An all-white backsplash using the same tile provides a seamless, expansive look. The monochromatic color keeps the design calming and uncomplicated. An all-white backsplash works with any color cabinetry or countertops.
Partial Backsplash
A partial backsplash extends 4-6 inches above countertops rather than from counter to cabinets. Centered around the cooking area, a short backsplash prevents splashes without overwhelming a small kitchen. Partial backsplashes work well with more ornate porcelain tile designs.
Incorporate Accent Tiles
Blend plain white tiles with pastel blue, green, yellow, or pink tiles to add soft pops of color. For contrast, weave in a few dark gray, black, or navy accent tiles. Accent tiles along the edges or in a random diagonal pattern make the backsplash more dynamic.
Bordered Tiles
Framing white porcelain field tiles with a border of contrasting tiles defines the backsplash. Try a strip of small mosaic tiles, metallic tiles, or even marble or stone at the top and bottom. Mixing materials creates texture and depth within the backsplash design.
Extend Backsplash to Ceiling
Extending a tiled backsplash to the ceiling makes it a real focal point. This works best for contemporary or industrial style kitchens. Floor-to-ceiling white subway tiles create a sleek, urban vibe. Make sure the tiles are properly sealed and cleaned near cooking areas to prevent grease stains.
Mix Tile Shapes
Using a mix of complementary tile shapes adds interest to a white backsplash. Combine subway tiles with octagons, hexagons, or penny tiles. Varying the tile size and arrangement prevents repetitive patterning.
Textured Backsplash
3D tile, fish scale tile, crackle-glazed tile, or stone and marble mixes add appealing texture to backsplashes. The varied surfaces catch and reflect light. Using all textured white tiles or mixing some in provides depth without overwhelming.
How to Install a White Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Installing a porcelain tile backsplash is a doable DIY project for motivated homeowners. Follow these tips for proper installation:
Select the Right Tile
Choose tile suited for backsplash use – typically wall tiles around 4 inches or smaller. Measure your backsplash area and purchase 10-15% extra to account for breakage and pattern matching.
Prepare the Surface
The substrate must be smooth and clean. Remove any old backsplash and wash the wall surface. Fill any holes or uneven spots with joint compound. Paint the walls with primer.
Mark Your Layout
Plan the tile layout ahead of time. Dry lay tiles on the countertop to visualize spacing and arrangement. Use a level to ensure your bottom row will be straight. Mark the wall at tile corners for reference.
Apply Thin-set Mortar
Use a notched trowel to spread thin-set mortar evenly across the backsplash area. Apply only enough that tiles can be set before the thin-set dries.
Set the Tiles
Starting at your bottom guide line, press tiles into the thin-set and space evenly. Use temporary tile spacers between each. Ensure flat tile alignment and even grout line width.
Let Dry & Grout
Let thin-set dry 24-48 hours before applying grout. Grout small joints first. Wipe away excess immediately with a damp sponge. Clean any remaining grout haze.
Seal & Caulk
Once grout has dried, apply grout sealer. Use silicone caulk in the corner joints between the backsplash and counters or cabinets.
FAQs About White Porcelain Tile Backsplashes
Is white porcelain tile hard to keep clean?
White porcelain is very stain-resistant and easy to clean with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. Yearly application of sealer helps tiles repel grime and liquids.
What color grout should I use with white porcelain tiles?
White, light gray, or beige grout complements white tiles. Dark grout can look dirty quickly. You can also consider matching colored grout for a seamless look.
How do I cut porcelain tiles?
Use a wet saw with a diamond blade designed for porcelain. For small cuts, you can score and snap tiles with tile nippers. Use safety precautions as tile edges are sharp.
Can I install a porcelain backsplash over existing tile?
Yes, if the existing tiles are well-adhered and provide a smooth, clean surface. Use caution and consult a professional to check if this option works for your specific project.
Is white tile too plain for a backsplash?
White backsplashes are classic and never go out of style. Simple doesn’t have to mean boring. The right tile shape, sheen, or texture ensures the design remains visually interesting. Accent tiles or countertop and cabinet colors also add visual punch.
What kitchen colors go well with white backsplash tile?
White backsplashes pair beautifully with any color scheme. White reflects light and emphasizes surrounding hues. Common pairings include white cabinets, gray cabinets, navy cabinets, black countertops, butcher block countertops, stainless steel, and brass fixtures.
Enhance Your Kitchen With a White Porcelain Tile Backsplash
A white porcelain tile backsplash offers endless options to elevate your kitchen’s style. Classically elegant or slickly modern, white porcelain adapts to any setting. With the right tile design and expert installation, you can enjoy a stunning backsplash that will stay beautiful for years to come. White porcelain backsplashes provide timeless, low-maintenance functionality with design versatility. Let white porcelain tiles be the blank canvas to make your dream kitchen a reality!