Backsplash

What’s the Best Backsplash Material?

September 28, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Backsplashes too often, unfortunately, don’t make it to the top of the priority list of homeowners in Indianapolis when renovating their kitchens. Backsplashes serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They enable homeowners in Indianapolis to protect walls from grease, water, and foodstuffs while providing opportunities to make a unique design statement.

No one material is superior to other backsplash options. Material selection often depends on style preferences and ease of maintenance. Here are the pros and cons of different backsplash materials:

Glass (Slabs or Tile)

Pros:

Easy to clean
Resists heat and won’t be damaged from cooking
Endless options – almost every color scheme, style and design is available in glass
Customizable sizing
Enhances illumination because of glass’ ability to reflect light
On-trend

Cons:

Can be costly
Glass mosaics may not have long-term staying or stylistic power
May not be perceived as novel or unique

Natural Stone

Pros:

Timeless look
Unique – no two pieces of stone look the same
Cost-effective

Cons:

Requires more effort to clean
Some cleaning products could cause the stone to discolor
Stones are naturally porous, which causes them to absorb water and stains. Therefore, stone needs to be resealed every two to three years or more often depending on the amount of cooking in your kitchen.
What you see may not be what you get. Because no two pieces of stone are the same, the sample you see in the showroom will vary slightly from the stone that is shipped.

What backsplash would enhance the look, feel, and functionality of your new kitchen? Give us a call to discuss or make an appointment to visit us at one of our beautiful showrooms.

Why Install a Kitchen Backsplash

July 14, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Don’t forget the backsplash! Whether you’re completely renovating or simply sprucing up your kitchen, it’s important to install a backsplash for several reasons.

Installing a backsplash has many benefits. It can be great for both utility and style. Should you install a backsplash in your kitchen? Take a look below!

Protects Your Kitchen Walls

The main function of a backsplash is to protect your kitchen walls from damage. Yes, it serves as a shield from water, cooking oil and other types of materials that can ruin your walls. Painted and wallpapered walls aren’t resistant to stains and they can be difficult to clean. After long periods, if they are not protected the walls can begin to look dingy.

Backsplashes make the space easier to clean. Splatters can be quickly cleaned by simply using a disinfectant and wiping the area with a clean cloth. Depending upon the type of backsplash you install it can be resistant to heat, stains and moisture which adds to its longevity.

Backsplashes are a great way to add your personality to your kitchen. They are also great for breathing life into a plainly designed kitchen.

Adds Great Style

Whether you choose a mosaic pattern, glass tile or traditional tile, there are an abundance of backsplash options available to meet your style and budget needs. If you’re going to protect your walls with tile, why not have it add a design element at the same time?

When planning your backsplash design, we realize it can be overwhelming. That’s what we are here for! We encourage you to get outside the box with your thinking before you finalize your selection.

Things to consider

Do you want your backsplash to blend or be a contrast to your kitchen countertops? Do you want your backsplash to stand out or fade into the background? Do you want a patterned tile or something plain and simple? Do you want your backsplash to cover the areas between the lower and upper cabinets or is there an opportunity for more coverage or design?

Get inspired

Take a look at our website and see our work to get some ideas. Browse our tile catalog on our website to look at products. Visit our Pinterest page to get some inspiration.

If you’re interested in dressing up your kitchen by adding a tasteful backsplash contact us today. Our consultants can assist you in choosing the right design for your kitchen.

Kitchen Remodel Ideas

June 23, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

To help you take on your next remodeling project, we have created ten tips for a kitchen remodel. Let’s get started!

Kitchen Remodel Ideas:

Wide Walkways.
Narrow walkways can cause a newly remodeled space to feel tight or out of date. Before finalizing your remodeling plans, be sure to discuss adding wide walkways into their kitchen. The wide walkways will give you more room to move around and work throughout the kitchen.
The Right Height.
A lot of times, homeowners will place their appliances wherever it looks best rather than taking function and proper layout into consideration. For example, to ensure you have the best kitchen for YOUR family and YOUR lifestyle, you want to place your microwave and double ovens at the right height for you. If you are shorter or taller, this will adjust depending on your preferences.
Do Not Cut Corners.
Corner cabinets can be a tricky topic, because they tend to have difficulties opening when another cabinet is open. Before ruling them out, let’s talk corners and find you a solution!
A Purpose-Filled Island.
Islands are terrific place to add a must-needed feature in your home without wasting space. If you are in need of an extra sink or even storage, your island can come in handy. Be sure to incorporate these essential features into your island for maximum functionality.
Count on Counters.
During a remodel, you want to make sure that you buy a solid countertop. You want to choose one that is easy to maintain and fits your cooking needs. Be sure to discuss the different options before you settle on one.
One Less Trip.
If you have extra money in your budget or you consider yourself a home chef, you may want to consider adding a pot filler near your stovetop. It doesn’t seem like much, but saving an extra trip to the sink with a heavy pot can be a real luxury!
Chalk It Up To A Fantastic Idea.
Chalkboard accents are a stylish and functional option. They are the perfect solution for busy homeowners who need a place to write their grocery list. They also make for a great kid distraction while you are cooking dinner. Some would argue that chalkboards are no longer in style, but we say function first!
Get Plugged In.
Take a look at the amount of outlets you currently have in your kitchen. If you feel like you could use more, now is the time to get some more added. Extra outlets will come in handy more often than you think! If you can’t add more outlets, switch out your existing outlets for newer ones that include USB ports alongside the plugs.
Small Spaces = Soft Shades.
If you have a small kitchen, expert designers recommend sticking with soft shades. Darker shades tend to make the room feel smaller.
The Main Event.
Just like in any room, you want to create a focal point. Whatever your point of interest may be, try to make a statement that reflects your family and your style!

Whether you are starting from the beginning and need step-by-step guidance or know exactly what you need, ICC Home’s new showroom will give you a quick, efficient, and joyful shopping experience. Our new showroom will help ensure a smooth transition between design projects. You will not have to worry about miscommunication and delays with different contractors because it will all be serviced by our team. From cabinet vignettes to countertops to flooring, all of our products work together in order to show you different styles and design trends in the industry.

How to Choose the Best Backsplash to Complement Your Counters

February 21, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Backsplashes are very useful and decorative ways to cover and protect your walls. In the kitchen, they are used to prevent food from staining or splashing against your walls. And while being functional, backsplashes are made from various stylish tile options that can easily become the focal point in any kitchen. Therefore, when searching for the perfect backsplash, there are several avenues to explore. To help, here are just three simple ways to decide which backsplash is best for your kitchen:

Matchy, Matchy

First, determine what your room’s overall design theme is. Would a matching backsplash and countertop help complement the design? For instance, some homeowners love to pair marble backsplashes with marble countertops. You can also try to stick to the same color countertop to match the same color backsplash for a uniform look. This simple but effective way will help blend your design and create an effortless look.

All About the Accent

You can also use your backsplash as an accent opportunity. Are you looking to add some color or character to the room? If so, using mosaic tiles are a great decorative way to add some color to your kitchen design. In fact, mosaic tiles can help add repetitive patterns and artistic flair to the room. If you choose not to make your room feel monochromatic, consider using your backsplash as an accent opportunity. Find a color that you want to introduce into the room. You can continue to pay tribute to this color throughout other accents in the room; however, note that the backsplash will be the defining moment.

A Safe Bet

Your last option could be selecting a neutral color backsplash. If you love your cabinets and countertops, do not take from the statement that they make. However, if everything feels too powerful in a design, it can begin to feel chaotic and busy. A safe option is to simply get a neutral colored backsplash.

Finishing Touch

Another way to allow your countertops to complement your backsplash is by matching the finishes. For instance, does your countertop have a high sheen or matte finish? If so, allow your design to work with each other by complementing both finishes. This concept is an excellent way to add texture to your room’s design while complementing the overall design.

These are just some simple ways to help match your backsplash with your countertops. However, do not be overwhelmed in the decision. Explore different tile options and bring them home to see next to your countertops. You may be pleasantly surprised by an unsuspecting tile choice.

Different Types of Tiles and How to Choose the Right One

February 14, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Tile has been used for centuries as a decorative floor and wall covering. Not only do many tiles offer the benefits of unmatched aesthetical appeal and substantial durability, but many tiles can be used in wet environments. This feature makes tile a very versatile flooring option. However, there are many different types of tiles on the market. Knowing some of the common tile selections and their pros and cons can better help you tailor the right selection for your home.

Ceramic

Ceramic tile has been around for a very long time. It is created by heating clay inside a kiln to harden it. It is not baked nearly as hot as porcelain, however, and is easier to chip or get damaged by frost.

Porcelain

Like ceramic tile, porcelain is clay heated in a kiln. However, it is baked at a much higher temperature, making it much more durable and less porous. Being less porous also makes this tile more difficult to stain. This is why toilets and sinks are commonly made from porcelain.

Glass

Another option to use when tiling your home is glass. Glass offers a translucent glaze, which can be very aesthetically pleasing. It is typically marketed for backsplashes or accent pieces. Additionally, glass can come in a large variety of colors and adds character to any backsplash or shower wall.

Marble

This natural stone is quarried and cut into tiles. It is full of character, with each piece being unique and individualized through their pebbly spots and veining. Marble is great; however, it is very easily stained and vulnerable to etching when it encounters acidic materials.

Mosaic

Mosaic tile is a category of tiles that are combined on a small mesh sheet for installation purposes. Mosaic tiles are typically accent pieces, which can be fun to add to walls or backsplashes. Additionally, mosaics can be made of glass, ceramic, stone, or other materials. They are very timeless and can add a charming pattern to your room.

Limestone

Limestone is a very decorative tile option with beautiful texture. Limestone is made of calcium carbonate. Limestone can also be soft and porous, which makes it vulnerable to staining or damage. However, limestone offers a beautiful, elegant look.

Quarry

Another durable option is quarry tile. This tile is made the same way that brick is formed. It is a very impervious tile, which is extremely hard. Quarry tile is not considered to be slippery when wet, which is why it is used in some outdoor places like ski resorts.

Different tiles can be used for various applications. From outside tiles for patios to indoor tiles for backsplashes, each tile can offer a distinct set of advantages. If you are having trouble choosing the right one for you, our team at ICC Home would love to assist you. We have a knowledgable staff ready to answer all and any of your questions. Visit us today, and let us help you find the perfect tile.

Trending Backsplash Ideas for 2019

July 1, 2019 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Backsplashes are not only functional at protecting your walls from kitchen grease and water damage, but they are also a beautiful addition to your home’s design and overall aesthetic. Plus, there are hundreds of styles and types of backsplashes available nowadays. Selecting a backsplash for your home design has never been easier, and with us being in the middle of 2019, we have noticed some unique trends happening in homes and businesses. Check out some of our favorite 2019 trending backsplash ideas that you can add to your own home for added flair and character:

Encaustic Cement Tiles

Encaustic tiles are actually not a new concept, but their name may sound a bit unfamiliar to you. They have been around for centuries and have recently made a strong comeback this year in the housing market. They are extremely durable and add a unique aesthetic look to any room. These tiles are packed with character and artisan design, which can work in any atmosphere.

Large Subway Tiles

Typically, subway tiles are the classic 3”x6” white tiles. However, larger subway tiles are becoming more and more common in design. Subway tiles are a timeless classic used in many designs, including commercial spaces. These larger tiles allow buyers to purchase fewer boxes to complete a project. It is also trending to have subway tiles go higher up in the kitchen than the typical backsplash height. Some backsplashes now run from the counters to the ceilings for a more complete look.

Alternate Materials

While tiles are the common backsplash choice, many alternative options are coming out on the market. Shiplap is a wood layover many homeowners may use as an alternative for a more rustic look. Other materials like beadboard, glass, and even fabric have been making their rounds in interior designing in early 2019.

Bold Patterns

People are taking more risk currently in interior design. Bold colors are making a comeback as well. Where neutrals were primarily the route for backsplashes, it is not uncommon for many people to look for fresh, more lively colors to add to their home through backsplashes.

Backsplashes are great additions for kitchens and baths. All of these styles are very beautiful and will look amazing in many different types of homes. Which of these interests you the most? Let us know in the comment section, and if you are interested in viewing our selection, please visit us at ICC Home for more information.