Our Stunning Kitchen Quartz Backsplash And Countertop

Is a Quartz Backsplash a Good Idea?

Absolutely! Since installing our new countertop and kitchen backsplash earlier this year, I am really impressed with the durability and not to mention, how beautiful it is. 

For those designing a modern kitchen, a quartz kitchen backsplash is a superb choice. They’re not just about good looks but they’re practical too.

Being heat resistant and requiring minimal maintenance makes them ideal for a busy kitchen space.

When we were planning our new kitchen, we visited Discover Surfaces (our local countertop store) and looked at several large quartz slabs to get an idea of which quartz style would be the best choice.

If you are local, consider heading to Discover for professional help as they are a one-stop-shop from purchasing, fabricating and installing! 

​One thing that I love about the Cosmos Calacatta quartz styles, is most of them will coordinate with just about any cabinet color.

Whether you have white cabinets, navy or light gray, this style quartz will look amazing no matter which one you pick. 

If you want to see the before and after of our kitchen renovation (it’s drastic!), click through this post grey kitchen cabinets with white quartz.

Quartz Backsplash Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Visual Appeal. Quartz offers a spectrum of designs, from stunning quartz backsplashes with intricate patterns to sleek, white quartz counters with subtle gray veins.
2. Durability. In my opinion these surfaces resist scratches and impacts better than many materials. 
3. Heat Resistance. A quartz backsplash behind your cooktop can withstand high heat without damage.
4. Low Maintenance. The non-porous surface means spills and splashes can be wiped away easily, without worrying about stains. Quartz also does not need to be sealed.
5. No Grout Lines. Unlike tile backsplashes, a solid backsplash means no grout lines, making cleaning much simpler. Given the current popularity of sleek modern kitchen designs, this is one of the most significant benefits of a quartz backsplash.

Cons

1. Cost. High-quality quartz surfaces can be more expensive than other backsplash materials like tile.
2. Installation. Quartz backsplashes usually require professional installer, which adds to the overall cost.
3. Limited Heat Resistance. While quartz is heat resistant, high temperatures can damage it, so care is still needed. This is particularly important with quartz countertops as hot pots may damage quartz. We have never put hot pots on any of our countertops, even when we had granite countertops so this is a non-issue for us. 

One thing to consider as well if you decide to install a quartz backsplash, you will need to remove your old tile backsplash that may require some drywall repairs once the old tile is removed.

Quartz Backsplash Behind Cooktop or Sink

Quartz is an excellent choice for areas that see a lot of action, like behind cooktops or sinks.

Its heat-resistant nature and ease of cleaning make it ideal for these splash-prone areas, harmonizing perfectly with white quartz countertops for a cohesive kitchen design.

Installing a quartz backsplash behind a cooktop or sink is a great way to accent a wall.

We did end installing the quartz for the entire backsplash but if you are at the top of your budget, accenting one or two walls is a great way to achieve a custom look and still save money.

​Due to the flat seamless surface, a quartz backsplash is super easy to clean as well.

A soft cloth and warm water often times will clean up the majority of any splatter or mess. We use all non-abrasive cleaners and the quartz cleans up beautifully.

Curious how Discover measured and templated our kitchen to make our backsplash, click through this post how to template for a countertop and backsplash.

What is the Best Height for a Quartz Backsplash?

The height of your quartz backsplash can dramatically affect your kitchen’s look.

Opting for a full-height quartz backsplash (like we did) creates a striking feature wall, while standard heights offer a more conventional approach. 

Our goal was to create a seamless cohesive look, so we installed Calacatta quartz countertops and a full height backsplash combination. 

As you can see above, we chose to have a custom farmer sink crafted from the same quartz as our countertop and backsplash, resulting in a beautifully seamless look throughout the kitchen.

Material Quality

The cost of quartz backsplash material can vary widely based on quality, design, and color.

Due to the nature of the subtle patterns, quartz backsplash is very popular which means, the cost is a bit higher than your traditional subway style backsplash.

For cost comparison purposes, the Calacatta quartz we installed is a mid-level priced quartz.

Below is an example of another full height quartz backsplash behind a cooktop at a home Jim recently built.

This particular Dekton quartz, is the highest grade quartz on the market making it one of the most expensive countertops and backsplashes you can buy. I’ll share another post soon on the different grade levels of quartz soon!

Installation

Professional installation is necessary for a perfect finish.

Cutting quartz (electrical outlet holes) and the fabrication process regardless of material, involves precise measurements and professional machines for designing and installing, which can significantly add to the cost.

Comparison with Other Materials

While more expensive than tile backsplashes, quartz offers a seamless look and long-term durability that can be a wise investment. Not to mention, the aesthetic value and ease of cleaning, make this a win win in my opinion.

White Quartz Backsplash with Grey Veins

This style is a classic choice with subtle patterns, striking the perfect balance between a modern and timeless look. It’s versatile enough to complement various kitchen designs, from the ultra-modern to the more traditional.

Full Height vs. Tile Backsplash

1. Aesthetics. A full-height backsplash offers a clean, continuous look, whereas tiles provide a more segmented, traditional aesthetic.
2. Cleaning. The seamless surface of a quartz backsplash is easier to clean compared to tile backsplashes with grout lines. Grout can crack, stain and fade over time.

Whether it’s for its beauty or practicality, a quartz backsplash is a significant addition to any dream kitchen. It’s not just about creating a stunning visual, it’s about making a smart, long-term investment in your home.