There are tons of marble backsplash ideas online, using combinations of marble tiles, marble mosaic tile, and just simple white marble kitchen backsplashes to create a wide range of timeless kitchen aesthetics that speak to both classic and modern kitchen design.
However, should you actually use marble for your kitchen backsplash?
While marble is a very pretty natural stone, it's definitely got some pros and cons when it's put into a cooking space. Often placed in bathrooms, a marble slab may or may not work for your kitchen needs depending on how you use the space.
So, should you get a marble backsplash for your kitchen?
Pros and Cons of Marble Backsplash Tile
Pros of a Marble Backsplash
- Heat resistant up to 480°F (250°C)
- Stays cool naturally – great for warm climates
- Natural stone that's light in color (rare)
- Associated with beauty & opulence
- Many marble backsplash ideas
- Design flexibility
- Pretty durable
- Easy to find in the US
- May increase property value
- Lifespan of decades if maintained
- Available in many forms – slab, marble backsplash tile, etc.
There are many great reasons to try a marble backsplash tile instead of played-out kitchen backsplashes like subway tile. While the natural material isn't the best for a cooking space, it has a natural beauty and opulence that can make for a dazzling focal point in the room.
Cons of a Marble Backsplash
- Porous – can stain easily
- Regular sealing required (more than granite etc.)
- Heavy & tricky to install
- Prone to scratching, etching, & scorching
- Marble backsplash ideas often expensive
- Can look out of place without marble countertops
While it's easy to browse through marble backsplash ideas and be seduced by the designs, it's essential to keep the disadvantages in mind. while choosing kitchen backsplash. This rock is more delicate than many other natural stones and it stains easily, so it may not be suitable for all cooking environments.
What is Marble?
Marble is a natural stone that is quarried from quarries all over the world, though it's most commonly obtained from Italy and Spain. Marble has long been associated with art and opulence, thanks to works such as Michaelangelo's David.
This natural stone is known for its distinctive veining details that can come in various colors including white, creams, greys, and even golds. Marble is one of the few natural stones that are light in color (though dark versions exist) and white marble is often sought after due to its unique features.
A white marble backsplash is undeniably beautiful!
Marble comes in 2 different finishes – polished and honed. Polished marble tends to be glossy and shiny, while honed marble has more of a matte finish. There are many different ways to incorporate this rock into your home, whether it's a marble countertop, mosaic tiles, or a kitchen backsplash.
Marble Tiles
Though an interior designer will often use a full Carrara Marble slab for a kitchen backsplash, it's becoming more commonplace to see marble tile designs in the home these days. Replacing old-school glass tile and subway tiles, marble tiles are an easy way to incorporate marble into your kitchen.
These marble tiles fit into basically any home design idea!
Marble tile comes in many different colors and styles, with the small sections making it much easier to install than an entire piece of marble slab. The variety of designs also means that it can match different cabinetry and countertops without clashing.
There are so many marble backsplash ideas for your space, and marble backsplash tile just opens up even more possibilities. If you can get matching features and appliances, this type of backsplash tile is certainly a bold choice with unique design features.
Is Marble Good For a Backsplash?
Heat Resistance
Carrara Marble, White Marble, and other common types of marble tile can all withstand temperatures up to 480°F (250°C). This means that it can resist the heat from hot splashes of oils and other liquids, but it's not as heat-resistant as something like granite.
Still, for everyday cooking needs, marble tile should be fine.
Natural Opulence
There's no denying that this rock is beautiful, with the natural detail of the tiles or slab making for an excellent focal point in your home. When paired with the right countertop and cabinetry, this backsplash can be your kitchen's best asset.
Consider a marble mosaic backsplash for your new home improvement project! It looks especially good in a white kitchen.
Quite Strong
While not the strongest of backsplash products, marble is strong enough to resist the everyday damage that occurs in kitchens. However, this item is not as stable as stones like granite, so if you want durability above all else, this isn't your best bet.
If this is your concern, look at backsplash products like granite and quartz.
Easy to Stain
Marble tile looks amazing in a white kitchen, but remember that this material is very easy to stain. If you get a stain on a marble kitchen countertop, backsplash, or tile, you need to make sure that you clean it immediately.
This material is porous, so certain liquids can stain and ruin the design.
Prone to Scratching, Etching, Scorching
As much as your interior designer might like it, marble kitchen items are not good when it comes to living spaces. If you're clumsy in the kitchen or you have young children and pets, then you might find that your backsplash gets damaged easily.
It's easy to scratch, etch, and scorch this type of backsplash, so make sure you're prepared to be careful and buff out any scratches regularly.
Regular Sealing Required
Last but not least, a marble kitchen backsplash needs to be sealed regularly because it is porous. The same is true for marble countertops and other similar products.
If you're looking for something low-maintenance, a marble kitchen backsplash maybe isn't the best option.
How Often Do You Have To Seal A Marble Backsplash?
For most people, you need to seal a marble backsplash once every 12 months. However, unlike with countertops, you can use your kitchen again straight away after sealing (because it's only a backsplash).
So while you have to seal this backsplash, it's not too much of a chore.
Is Dawn Dish Soap Safe For Marble?
Dawn Dish Soap is safe for marble backsplashes and features if the formula is mild and you use a very small amount diluted with plenty of water.
You should also consider buying a special dedicated cleaner and polisher to keep your backsplash looking the best it can be.
