The Timeless Look of a Whitewashed Brick Kitchen Backsplash
A whitewashed brick backsplash brings a clean, coastal vibe to any kitchen. The soft white finish provides a fresh, airy look compared to the boldness of traditional red brick. While real brick requires sealing to maintain its durability, brick veneers and faux brick tiles offer great alternatives. With just a little whitewash and paint, imperfections disappear to match any style. Add a whitewashed brick backsplash to give your kitchen timeless appeal.
Unlike glossy tile or natural stone, whitewashed brick adds tactile texture. The uneven surface creates visual interest, complementing smooth quartz countertops or rustic wood cabinetry. Brick veneers stick on like wallpaper for easy installation. Budget-friendly and simpler than laying individual bricks, faux brick brings authentic charm. Set against crisp white cabinets, a whitewashed brick backsplash keeps the look light and breezy.
The Timeless, Textured Look of Whitewashed Brick
Whitewashed brick brings a timeworn, textured look perfect for farmhouse, cottage, and coastal decors. The naturally imperfect surface adds rustic contrast to sleek appliances and polished counters. Compared to traditional red brick, the lighter whitewashed finish prevents feeling too dark or bold.
Soft and Subtle Appeal
A whitewashed brick backsplash has a subtle look compared to stark white tile or natural stone slabs. The uneven surface diffuses light beautifully. Whites and grays blend with any color scheme, unlike a red brick backsplash that may feel limiting. From modern to traditional spaces, a whitewashed brick backsplash works anywhere.
Coastal Charm and Ease
Whitewashed brick evokes breezy cottages and coastal homes. The weathered patina feels relaxed compared to glossy ceramic tiles or granite. Brick veneers go up with adhesive, avoiding the mess of mortar and grout. Faux brick tiles offer quick installation too. For DIYers, peel-and-stick panels like shiplap create the look of whitewashed brick without the work of applying whitewash.
Choosing Brick for Backsplashes
Real, faux, or painted--there are many options for achieving the whitewashed brick backsplash look. Consider factors like affordability, durability, and effort for the installation style right for your kitchen.
Real Whitewashed Brick
Genuine brick brings authentic texture but requires more complex installation. Mortar adheres each brick, then whitewashing creates the weathered finish. Traditional mortar between brick needs ongoing sealing. Available in a range of styles, real brick comes at a higher cost but brings lasting durability.
Faux Brick Panels
Peel-and-stick faux brick panels make for easy installation without messy mortar or whitewashing. Budget-friendly brick veneers stick right on with adhesive. Brick-look ceramic tiles also snap into place like traditional tile. Recreating the rough texture of real brick, faux panels offer realistic allure without authentic brick's weight.
Painted Brick Options
Turn existing red brick white with paint. Primers like KILZ Adhesion bind paint to brick's porous surface. Multiple coats of quality exterior paint keep the whitewashed look lasting. For temporary transformations, chalk-based brick paint washes away. Paint brick yourself or hire pros for a perfect finish.
Preparing Walls for Whitewashed Brick
To avoid issues once your backsplash is installed, proper wall prep is a must. Evaluate the surface material, clean thoroughly, fill any holes, and prime.
Fill Holes and Imperfections
Use spackle or joint compound to fill any holes or cracks for flat walls that won't warp your new backsplash over time. Feather out edges for seamless smoothing. Avoid lightweight spackle, which may shrink and crack.
Thoroughly Clean Surfaces
Remove any grease, grime, or soap residue by washing walls with TSP substitute so detergent won't cause adhesion problems. Rinse then let dry completely. Wipe dusty walls with a vacuum brush and damp microfiber cloth.
Prime Painted Drywall Before Installation
Because joint compound is water-soluble unless sealed, prime painted drywall with an oil-based primer. Make sure to use low-VOC options. Allow the primer to fully dry for 24-48 hours before applying any mortar or adhesive.
How to Install a Whitewashed Brick Backsplash
With careful planning and preparation, installing a faux or real whitewashed brick backsplash transforms your kitchen's style with rustic coastal charm. Follow essential steps for a successful installation.
Gather Your Materials
- Brick of your choice
- Mortar mix or adhesive
- Grout
- Trowel
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Whitewash mixture
Calculate Brick and Apply Mortar
Determine how much brick you need for full coverage. Apply a generous layer of mortar to each brick's back using a trowel. For faux panels, apply adhesive to the wall where they'll mount.
Let Mortar Cure Before Grouting
Allow complete drying time for mortar between bricks, typically 24 hours. Install any accent tiles. Before applying grout between bricks, seal the surface. Allow curing time before grouting.
Mix and Apply Whitewash
Dilute white paint with water for a thin, milky mixture. Use a paintbrush or clean rag to apply the whitewash. Let it partially dry then wipe off excess for weathered charm. Build up layers for your desired whitewashed effect.
Designing a Whitewashed Brick Backsplash
A whitewashed brick backsplash complements any kitchen's decor. Integrate your backsplash with cabinets, counters, and appliances for a cohesive look.
Pair with Natural Wood Cabinets
The tactile texture of whitewashed brick beautifully offsets natural wood cabinetry. For a light and airy feel, combine your backsplash with painted white cabinetry. Stainless steel appliances also pop against the brick.
Incorporate Colorful Accents
Make your whitewashed brick backsplash shine with pops of color. Bright ceramic tiles coordinate unexpectedly with whitewashed brick. Vintage blue and green serve up retro flair. For contemporary personality, opt for bold orange or chartreuse accents.
Mix Brick Shapes and Layouts
Go beyond running brick set in uniform lines. Stack for an irregular layout or incorporate different size bricks. Turn them sideways, vertically, or at an angle. Multi-brick panels make it easy to create patterns.
Add Plants, Shelves or Decor
Make your backsplash part of an artful vignette with shelving and greenery. Wall-mounted herb planters accent whitewashed brick charmingly. Floating shelves create space for decor that pops against the textured backdrop.
Care and Maintenance of Whitewashed Brick
With proper care, a real or faux whitewashed brick backsplash stays beautiful for years. Follow best practices for cleaning and sealing.
Yearly Whitewash Renewal
Reapplying your whitewash solution annually renews the weathered appearance. Let it fully dry between coats, adding water to lighten it over time. Too thick of whitewash may crack.
Gently Clean with Soft Sponge and Soap
Use a mildly abrasive sponge and mild detergent to clean grease and grime without damaging brick or grout. Avoid acidic cleaners. Rinse thoroughly then let dry.