How to Finish the Edge Where the Kitchen Backsplash Meets the Countertop

Are you renovating your kitchen and haven't decided how to finish the edge where the countertop meets the backsplash? Don't rush—first, read our article to make the right choice.

Ksenia Mzenskaya — designer, member of ADDI

Designers have long stopped using flexible plastic skirting boards on kitchens—they are now replaced with edging and border strips. Let's start by understanding what methods exist for laying the backsplash.

Method 1

This method is favored by builders because it simplifies their job. The backsplash is laid during the finishing stage, before the kitchen is installed. Then, kitchen measurers come to your place to try fitting the furniture and countertop to the required dimensions.

Advantages for builders: after laying the tiles, there's no need to trim or adjust anything.

Disadvantages for you: a gap forms between the countertop and the wall, which must be covered somehow. If the floor is uneven, the gap will be noticeable, and it can only be hidden with edging strips.

Design: In My Box

What types of edging strips are there?

• Ceramic border. Sold in the same places as tiles—you can match it to the color right away. However, this option won't work if you have textured tiles.

• Low edging strip. Made from the same material as the countertop, so they must be ordered and installed together. This is ideal for interiors where the backsplash color differs from the countertop, to create a logical transition or connection.

• High edging strip. Edging strips 15–20 cm in height are made from practical materials that match the countertop. These protect the wall from splashes and stains. If you choose this option, make the backsplash monochromatic and as close in color to the countertop as possible.

Design: AMD Design

Method 2

I always recommend this method to my clients. After finishing work, your kitchen furniture and countertop (as close to the wall as possible) are installed. Then, you lay tiles or any other surface for the backsplash (stone, glass, metal).

Disadvantages for builders: tiles must be trimmed and cut to fit the exact height of the backsplash. This work is more meticulous.

Advantages for you: the typical thickness of tiles is about 1 cm, and with precise fitting, the tile edge will cover any uneven gap between the countertop and the wall. After that, you just need to carefully seal the joint with clear (or matching tile) silicone. No edging strips are needed in this case.

Design: Ksenia Mzenskaya

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