Joanna Gaines Shares The Budget-Friendly Renovation Your Kitchen Is Begging For

A full kitchen renovation can be an expensive and time-consuming undertaking. Luckily, there are clever ways to experiment with new looks in your kitchen that don't require updating the entire space. When it comes to kitchen projects, HGTV star Joanna Gaines told Country Living that she likes to start with the backsplash. "The good thing about a backsplash in smaller spaces is you don't have a ton of square footage that you have to work with, so you can go find a nice, affordable tile, and have fun with the pattern," she said. Modernizing the backsplash is a great way to bring new life into the kitchen and incorporate a tasteful design that will make the area feel refreshed.

It's important to figure out what type of backsplash will be the right one for your kitchen based on format, color, and design. If you are planning to use your backsplash as an accent, that opens the door to tons of possibilities. Backsplash comes in an endless variety of styles and materials, from white subway tile to blue glass mosaics. Perhaps you have an aesthetic you are trying to achieve in the space that can serve as your guide. Or you can look to the other fixtures in your kitchen and follow the advice of HGTV's Hilary Farr by properly matching a kitchen backsplash with your countertops. 

A tile installation requires great attention to detail, but there are simple tips for installing tile backsplash. If you choose to take on the project yourself, it is important to get familiar with the multiple facets of what a backsplash install will entail. First, check to see if the tile you've selected will need to be sealed prior to the installation.

An authentic tile installation requires grout application, so the wall will need to be prepped to make sure the grout can properly hold the tiles in place. This means making sure the wall is clean and flat (which may require some sanding). If your wall is deteriorating or misshapen, consider applying some drywall to make sure the surface is even. Once the wall is ready, think about where you should start laying your backsplash tile pattern for the best results. Then, apply the tiles one by one, making sure each is lined up and well placed. After the tiles are all laid down, apply the grout and allow ample time for it to dry. To cut down on time and cost, look into DIY-friendly peel-and-stick tiles to cover the backsplash instead.