Get matched with top backsplash installation pros in Smithville, IN

To make a small bathroom look bigger, choose light-colored tiles in a medium- to large-format size. Lighter colors like white, cream, or light gray help open up a room, making it feel larger and more airy. While it may seem counterintuitive, small tiles can actually make a bathroom look smaller because the increased number of grout lines creates a busy pattern that visually shrinks the space. Instead, opt for medium- or large-format tiles for a more seamless, expansive appearance. For the best effect, pair your tiles with a matching or similarly colored grout to create a continuous surface that enhances the illusion of a larger area. Avoid dark colors, heavy patterns, and contrasting grout, as these can make the space feel more confined.

For professional labor and materials, it would cost between $6,000 and $28,000 to install 1,000 square feet of Saltillo tile flooring. If that’s out of your budget, you could consider laying the tiles yourself or choosing a less expensive type of flooring. For example, vinyl flooring costs just $2 to $7 per square foot, so for a 1,000-square-foot space, you’d pay $2,000 to $7,000.

Yes, you can install a backsplash directly onto drywall, provided the wall is properly prepped, clean, and dry. For best results, especially in kitchen areas, your walls should be made of moisture-resistant drywall, often called green board. If your current wall isn't moisture-resistant, it's recommended to replace it before installing the backsplash. For even greater protection against water damage, you can remove the existing drywall and install a tile backer board or cement board instead. While properly installed standard drywall is typically strong enough to support a backsplash, some local building codes may require water-resistant materials in kitchen areas, so it's a good idea to check.

It’s easiest to start from an edge as it gives you a straight line. A problem may arise if your edge doesn’t line up perfectly, in which case it’s best to start from the center. Some think that starting tile from the center adds a focal point in the center of the hearth.