When people normally think of kitchen backsplash options, they will usually think of stone or ceramic tile materials. While this is a popular option that can add color and texture to a kitchen, there are other options that work as well and offer a distinctive look.

If you’re on a tight budget and looking for a traditional look, painted bead board panels are an option to consider. Bead board comes in a variety of materials; MDF is an inexpensive option and accepts a painted finish quite well. I would only use this material on walls that will not be exposed to moisture. The area behind a sink may not be a good location, however, if you have a typical 4″ tile, laminate, or granite backsplash immediately above the counter, then I wouldn’t hesitate to use trim boards for the rest of the wall area to bottom of upper cabinets.

Another possible choice for backsplash material is sheet metal, either stainless steel or galvanized iron. This is easily installed with construction adhesive and results in a modern looking finish that is visually striking.

The possible options for the kitchen with a backsplash are only limited by your imagination. While tile is still a strong option, it requires a fair degree of skill to install and, depending on the material selected, can be expensive. When considering backsplash materials, don’t forget about laminate materials such as bead board and sheet metal; They offer a unique look at a bargain price.