Antique mirror: Ready for the dump?

When I think of mirror on a backsplash, typically, a bar area or commercial space comes to mind. The trend is using old materials in new ways. Today, let’s consider antique mirror. Old mirror that is tarnished and distressed is a unique surface for a backsplash.

 

Antique mirrors can be found at flea markets, antique stores or maybe your own attic. There are also products you can buy to simulate an antique look on a new mirror. Take your newly discovered mirror to a glass cutting shop and they can cut your large mirror into workable square or rectangular tiles. Make sure you get good sounds advice from Traditions in Tile on the setting material that is needed for the thickness of your new tiles and the surface they are going on.  Then simply lay it as you would any other tile. You will want to grout it with an un-sanded grout so you do not scratch the mirror any more than necessary.

 

Antique mirror is a unique surface which provides a wonderful reflective quality yet you do not have to worry about seeing and cleaning every water spot. This would be a perfect solution to a dark or small space that could use some brightening. It also provides an element of glamour and charm. And who couldn’t use a little bit of glamour and a little more charm?

Brick: Not just for the exterior

Last time we explored the 18 or so inches of wall space between your lower and upper cabinets and its purpose and potential of a backsplash. The purpose: to protect the wall from water and grease. The potential: a canvas for artwork; a place to display your personality. This week we will dive into the use of beadboard as a backsplash material.

 

The most common type of beadboard used is a ¼” thick sheet with a narrow groove pattern. It can be found at your big box home improvement store or any building supply company. The ¼” beadboard sheet is an inexpensive material and is relatively simple to install. Typically this material is used on porch ceiling, wainscoting in a bathroom or on cabinet ends and doors. Simply cut to size and nail to the wall. You may want to finish out the raw edges with a simple piece of trim.

 

Beadboard can be painted or stained to coordinate with your décor. The darker you go with the color of your backsplash, the more light is absorbed and causes the space to look darker. The lighter it is, the more light it reflects and brightens the space.

 

When considering using beadboard for your backsplash surface, be aware of some maintenance issues. Just like your sheetrock wall behind it, painted or stained beadboard will not stand up to water or grease exposure over time and is likely to show wear. Another common maintenance concern is the small grooves in beadboard are prone to catch whatever might be splashed in their direction and are often difficult to clean. You may want to silicone caulk the join between the bottom of your beadboard and your countertop so no water can escape behind your cabinets.

 

Beadboard is a great look as a backsplash but I would not consider it a long tern solution unless you are prepared to replace or repaint as needed. But in the short term, it can add real charm and character to an otherwise lifeless space.