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Granite Backsplash: How Can You Choose the Right One?

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Written by Ross Kernez on September 20, 2019
Edited By Christopher Miller, Last Updated On January 04, 2024
Reviewed By Samantha Peterson
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Installing a granite backsplash is a great way to add to the high-quality looks and functional benefits that you will receive from granite countertops. One of the most convenient aspects of a granite backsplash is that you can have one made from the same slab that was used to create your granite countertop. Choosing this option can create a consistent look that is very visually appealing. This guide will focus on what your options for granite backsplashes are and how you can narrow them down to make a choice that is good for your home. 

Why Choose a Granite Backsplash? 

There are many great reasons to choose a granite backsplash. Granite is one of the most attractive and durable natural stone materials that you can have in your home. Rather than other typical backsplash materials, such as subway tile, having a granite backsplash can help highlight the natural stone’s presence on your countertop. A kitchen backsplash in general is a great way to make a statement in your kitchen or other rooms of the house. Between the natural beauty and durability that a granite backsplash will bring to your space, installing one is an excellent choice. 

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What Are Some Other Common Backsplash Options? 

Granite is not your only option for a backsplash to pair with your granite countertop. You can choose to use a different type of stone or go with the more common tile backsplash. However, while tile backsplashes can look nice, you will have to deal with the grout lines that come with the backsplash tile. You can avoid this by choosing to install a standard height or full height slab backsplash. 

What Height Options Do You Have for Granite Backsplashes? 

There are two common backsplash height options: Standard or Full Height. Standard is a 4-inch backsplash that will cover a small area of the wall behind your countertop, while a full backsplash will cover the area between your countertop and the bottom of the upper cabinets. A full backsplash may also extend to the ceiling in certain spots. While these are standard, you can have a custom height backsplash if you truly want one. 

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Both Height Options? 

The advantages and disadvantages of both 4-inch and full height backsplashes are detailed in the table and explanations below. 

Advantages and Disadvantages: 4-inch vs. Full Backsplashes
4-inch Backsplashes Full Backsplashes
Advantage: Not as expensive as full backsplashes Advantage: Striking appearance that will highlight the look of your countertop
Advantage: Can be installed at the same time as your countertop Advantage: Easy to clean and maintain
Advantage: Allows for greater customization options Advantage: Will not have grout lines like tile backsplashes
Disadvantage: Does not protect your entire wall the way a full backsplash does Disadvantage: Will cost more than 4-inch backsplashes

4-inch Backsplashes 

Advantage: Not as expensive as full backsplashes 

A 4-inch backsplash does not require as much material as a full backsplash, and therefore will cost you less. 

Advantage: Can be installed at the same time as your countertop 

Another advantage of having a 4-inch backsplash is that it can be installed at the same time as your countertop. 

Advantage: Allows for greater customization options 

Because a 4-inch backsplash only takes up a small part of the wall, you will be able to paint the wall or install tile above the backsplash without having to endure a major inconvenience if you want to change it later. 

Disadvantage: Does not protect your entire wall the way a full backsplash does 

One disadvantage of a 4-inch backsplash is that it does not protect your entire wall the way that a full backsplash will. Because of this, most of your wall will still be exposed to potential kitchen hazards such as grease. One way to lessen the negative aspect of this is to install a full backsplash behind your stove while installing a 4-inch backsplash behind the countertop.  

Full Backsplashes 

Advantage: Striking appearance that will highlight the look of your countertop 

Using a slab of the same granite you used for your countertop will create a look that is both uniform and visually impactful. A full backsplash is a great way to make a bold statement. 

Advantage: Easy to clean and maintain 

Granite slabs are easy to clean and maintain, which makes a full height backsplash an ideal option for any kitchen. 

Advantage: Will not have grout lines like tile backsplashes 

Another advantage to full backsplashes is that they do not have grout lines like tile backsplashes do. This will help make the surface easier to clean. 

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Disadvantage: Will cost more than 4-inch backsplashes 

As can be expected, more material will come at a higher cost. However, between the beauty and durability you will get from a full backsplash, the cost can be well worth it. 

Choosing a granite backsplash is a great way to enhance the look of your home. Between your backsplash and your granite countertop, this wonderful natural stone will have a significant presence in your home. This guide will help you on your path to choosing an amazing granite backsplash.

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When it comes time to get the job done, our fabrication and installation teams have the equipment and expertise it takes to get your project cut and delivered the right way, every time. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible.
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