Goodbye Tile, So Long Stone: The Unique Alternative For Rustic Backsplashes

Backsplashes have become one of the most statement-making elements of kitchen design. Why else would HGTV stars like Erin Napier create intricate, eye-catching backsplashes using everything from hand-painted tiles to exposed brick? However, if you really want to make your backsplash stand out, you won't be going with tile, brick, or stone. Instead, opt for corrugated metal to achieve a truly unique and rustic backsplash.

Though most commonly used as roofing or siding material, corrugated metal is made when long metal sheets are pressed into panels that have a wavy, ribbed texture. This makes the thin metal incredibly rigid, increasing its structural stability and allowing it to easily shed water all without being incredibly heavy. You can buy them new as either bare or painted metal, or see if you can source recycled corrugated roofing that already has a rusty patina that will amplify the material's rustic feel.

Now, it needs to be understood that this material works surprisingly well with most kitchen designs and layouts. However, it lends itself particularly well to rustic farmhouse kitchen spaces. Still, if you think your space could use a statement backsplash, and you think corrugated metal is the way to go, by all means install one. It's actually quite easy if you have the right tools.

You need to use the proper personal safety equipment when handling corrugated metal, especially if it is going to be cut. Use gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges, and eye protection to prevent sparks or metal shards from getting into your eyes. Tools for the job could also include heavy-duty tin snips or an angle grinder for cutting sections of the metal, a drill bit for pilot holes, wall anchors, and screws. Corrugated metal can be installed over drywall, which makes installation even easier.

Now, corrugated metal panels typically come in sheets that are between 6 and 12 feet in length. We'd recommend opting for an 8-foot panel if you plan on doing a full wall backsplash, as this matches the ceiling height of most homes. If you're just filling space between cabinets, you can also find 3-foot-long by 1-foot-high panels that will be much easier to work with. Recycled metal roofing will most certainly have to be cut to meet specifications.

Once you've measured and cut your panels to the size you want, the only thing really left to do is screw them into the wall. After that, maintenance should be a cinch as the metal is already designed to be heat- and weather-resistant. As such, weekly wipe-downs with soap, water, or denatured alcohol will take care of any accumulated grease.