Give Your Kitchen Texture With Whitewashed Brick Backsplash
A whitewashed brick backsplash can add beautiful texture and visual interest to any kitchen. The exposed brick gives a timeless, natural look while the whitewash softens the traditional red brick color for a more neutral, versatile aesthetic. Whitewashed brick backsplashes complement both rustic cottage and modern, minimalist designs.
You'll learn whitewashing techniques, creative layout ideas, what surfaces pair well, and how to care for your backsplash so it stands the test of time.
Whitewashing Brick: An Overview
Whitewashing brick involves applying a limewash or whitewash coating to the brick surface to alter the color. This whitewashing process gives brick a distressed, muted appearance compared to its natural deep red state.
There are a few common whitewashing techniques:
- Classic whitewash uses a mixture of water, hydrated lime, salt, and white pigment applied with a brush or sprayer.
- Whitewash waxes create a matte, porous finish that protects the limewashed surface.
- Whitewash glazes result in a subtler, more evenly coated white finish.
No matter the exact process, whitewashing brick transforms the look from bold and rustic to lighter, more neutral and subdued. It also hides any imperfections or discolorations in the brick while allowing the natural texture to still shine through.
Designing With Whitewashed Brick Backsplashes
When designing your kitchen around a whitewashed brick backsplash, first look at brick styles and layout patterns that appeal to you. We'll overview some top options:
Brick Styles
For a traditional look, use reclaimed building bricks or brick veneers. Faux bricks offer more uniform sizing and colors. Consider multi-tone bricks for added depth. Salvaged handmade bricks work for a Tuscan or Old World aesthetic.
Layout Patterns
Stacking bricks in a horizontal herringbone pattern looks striking and modern. You can also do a vertical stack layout. For a more seamless look, lay bricks side-by-side in a mosaic pattern with minimal grout lines.
Pairing With Other Finishes
Combine your whitewashed brick backsplash with countertops, cabinets, floors or accents in creamy whites or grays for an airy look. Warm wood countertops provide pleasing contrast. For modern spaces, pair with sleek surfaces like quartz.
Here are some examples of whitewashed brick backsplashes complementing various kitchen designs:
| Kitchen Style | Backsplash Design |
|---|---|
| Modern | Mosaic brick layout, white cabinetry |
| Farmhouse | Stacked bond pattern, wood countertops |
| Industrial | Herringbone bricks, black accents |
Installation Process
Properly preparing and installing your backsplash ensures it lasts for years. Let's look at the key steps:
Prepping the Surface
Start with a clean, bare surface like drywall, plywood or concrete backer board. Remove any old backsplash or wall coverings. Fill any cracks or holes with caulk or spackle for a smooth surface.
Applying Whitewash
Using a whitewash solution of your choice, apply an even coat with a paintbrush or sprayer. Let it fully dry before adding a second coat if desired. Allow at least 24 hours to cure before grouting.
Grouting
Grout the brick joints for a finished look, wiping away excess. Avoid dark grout colors, sticking to white or light gray. Use a grout sealer to protect from stains.
Sealing
Once grouted, apply a sealant to the entire backsplash. Penetrating and topical sealers help prevent damage and discoloration.
DIY vs Hiring a Professional
Is this a DIY project or best left to the pros? Let's weigh the options.
DIY Whitewashed Brick
With some basic tiling experience, you can absolutely DIY this project and save on labor costs. You'll need:
- Brick and mortar
- Grout and grout float
- Whitewash materials
- Sealants
- Trowel, bucket, sponges, painter's tape
Follow the steps outlined above. Focus on proper surface prep and application of whitewash and grout. Patience is key.
Hiring a Professional
Pros ensure your backsplash is perfectly installed and looking flawless. With an experienced contractor, you can expect costs of:
- $10-$25 per square foot for materials and labor.
- $300-$700 for a 30-60 square foot backsplash area.
Hiring a pro may provide peace of mind and free your time for other projects.
Maintaining Whitewashed Brick
Whitewashed brick backsplashes are quite durable, but need proper care. Here are some tips:
Cleaning
Use a mild soap and water for routine cleaning. Avoid abrasive scouring pads or cleansers with acids, vinegar or bleach.
Reapplying Whitewash
Over time, reapply a fresh coat of whitewash as needed to keep the color vibrant. This may be needed every 1-3 years.
Sealing
Reseal your backsplash every 1-2 years with a penetrating brick sealer. This prevents stains and damage from moisture.
Achieving Different Design Looks
Now that we've covered the basics, let's explore some inspiring ways to implement a whitewashed brick backsplash in your kitchen remodel.
Modern and Contemporary
Mosaic brick patterns, sleek cabinetry and polished or quartz counters create a fresh modern look. Stick to neutral grout and limit upper cabinets for a clean aesthetic.
Farmhouse and Cottage
A whitewashed brick backsplash warmed up with wood countertops and antique-style hardware and lighting fits perfectly in a cozy cottage or farmhouse kitchen.
Industrial and Loft
Exposed HVAC, black steel accents and pendant lighting complement the rugged, textured look of whitewashed brick in an urban loft kitchen.
Vintage and Retro
For a retro diner look, pair whitewashed brick with checkerboard tile floors or laminate countertops. Stainless steel appliances add a sleek touch.
Alternatives to Whitewashed Brick
While whitewashed brick is a prime backsplash choice, you have options:
Other Whitewashed Materials
Try whitewashed wood planks, natural stone like marble or travertine, or white subway tiles laid in brick-like patterns.
Painted or Faux Brick
Brick veneers, wallpapers or painted "faux brick" techniques offer a budget-friendly alternative with a similar look.
A whitewashed brick backsplash adds a beautiful texture to your kitchen for a long time. It pairs perfectly with a variety of styles from modern to farmhouse chic. We hope our tips have inspired you to give this trendy backsplash a try in your own home.