What St. Paul Residents Need to Know About Kitchen Backsplash
If you’re remodeling your kitchen here in St. Paul, you’ve probably already realized there are a lot of decisions to make from cabinets, counters to lighting and yes, the kitchen backsplash. It might seem like a small detail, but a backsplash has a big impact both in terms of style and functionality.
Whether you’re restoring a historic Highland Park bungalow or updating a sleek kitchen in Mac-Groveland, this guide is here to give you everything you need to make a confident, informed choice.
What is a Kitchen Backsplash, and Why Does It Matter?
The backsplash is the material installed on the wall between your countertops and upper cabinets (or up to the ceiling in some designs). Its main roles:
- Protect the wall from moisture, grease, and food splatters
- Add visual interest and personality
- Tie together your countertop, cabinetry, and appliances
In Minnesota’s climate, especially with our long winters and dry indoor air, a backsplash also plays a role in protecting surfaces from thermal expansion and contraction that can lead to cracks or gaps over time.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Backsplash in St. Paul
Before jumping into tile samples, start by asking yourself about these key factors:
| Consideration | Why It Matters |
| Style of the Home | A craftsman-style home in Summit Hill may benefit from a more traditional tile, while a modern condo near Downtown St. Paul might call for sleek glass or metal. |
| Budget | Backsplashes can range from $4/sq.ft. to $100+/sq.ft. depending on material and labor. More on that below. |
| Maintenance Level | Some materials require sealing or special cleaning. Know what you’re signing up for. |
| Climate Concerns | Some materials expand/contract more with seasonal changes. Proper installation is key. |
| Installation Surface | Older homes may have plaster walls, which behave differently than modern drywall. |
| Timeline | Some options can be installed quickly; others require multiple days or specialty labor. |
Backsplash Materials: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Here’s a comparison of the most popular backsplash options homeowners in St. Paul choose, along with the pros, cons, and average installed cost per square foot.
Regional Considerations in St. Paul, MN
St. Paul’s housing stock is diverse, historic homes with original plaster walls, mid-century ranches, and new builds can require different backsplash considerations:
1. Wall Condition
In older homes, the walls may be uneven or curved, which can complicate tile installation. An experienced remodeler will know how to prep the surface properly.
2. Climate & Humidity
Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause building materials to expand and contract. Grout and caulking can crack if not installed correctly or if the wrong type is used.
3. Style Match
Historic neighborhoods like Crocus Hill or Cathedral Hill often call for more traditional choices like subway tile, beadboard, or natural stone. While in newer neighborhoods like Highland Bridge, you may see more glass tile and full quartz slabs for a clean, modern look.
How to Save on Your Backsplash Project
Looking for cost-saving tips? You’re not alone. Here’s how St. Paul homeowners save money without cutting corners:
| Tip | Savings Potential |
| Choose ceramic over porcelain or natural stone | 20–40% |
| Limit height of backsplash (e.g., just 4–6″ instead of full wall) | 30–60% |
| Use a standard tile layout (e.g., subway pattern) | Less labor, fewer cuts |
| Buy tile during seasonal sales (Jan-Feb in MN) | 10–20% |
| Work with a local remodeling pro who has supplier relationships | Better pricing and fewer costly mistakes |
The backsplash may be one of the last things you choose in a remodel, but it’s one of the first things people notice.
Take your time, think through your needs, and lean on local expertise when needed. Whether you go for classic white subway tile or a dramatic quartz slab, the right backsplash can transform your kitchen from “nice” to “wow.”
Have Questions or Ready to Talk Backsplash?
Even if you’re just in the research phase, we always happy to chat and share what we’ve learned from remodeling homes right here in St. Paul. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, sourcing ideas, or want help choosing a material that’ll hold up to Minnesota’s seasons, we are here to help!
