Backsplash Tile Installation
Kitchen and bathroom backsplash tile installation with custom patterns and designs.
Why Install a Tile Backsplash?
Transform your kitchen or bathroom with a stunning tile backsplash. We install subway tile, mosaic, glass, and natural stone backsplashes with precision grouting and sealing for a finished look that lasts.
At 2020 Flooring, we specialize in precision backsplash installation across the Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia region. Our tile experts work with every material and layout style, from simple subway tile to complex mosaic patterns, delivering clean lines and flawless grout work on every project.
Kitchen Backsplash Materials
Subway Tile
The most popular backsplash choice for good reason. Classic 3x6 subway tiles create a clean, timeless look that works with every kitchen style, from traditional to modern. Available in ceramic, porcelain, and glass in virtually any color.
- Classic 3x6 and extended 4x12 formats
- Glossy, matte, and handmade finishes
- Works with any kitchen style
Mosaic Tile
Small tiles arranged on mesh-backed sheets create intricate patterns and designs. Mosaics are perfect for adding visual interest and texture to your backsplash. Available in glass, ceramic, porcelain, metal, and natural stone combinations.
- Hexagonal, penny round, and arabesque shapes
- Mixed material blends for dimension
- Ideal for accent strips and feature walls
Natural Stone
Marble, travertine, and slate backsplashes bring organic beauty and luxury to your kitchen. Each piece is unique, with natural veining and color variations that create a one-of-a-kind installation. Requires sealing for moisture protection.
- Carrara and Calacatta marble
- Honed, polished, and tumbled finishes
- Premium, high-end aesthetic
Bathroom Backsplash Options
Vanity Backsplashes
A tile backsplash behind your bathroom vanity protects the wall from water splashes and toothpaste splatters while adding a polished, finished look. Popular choices include marble mosaic, porcelain tile, and glass tile in coordinating colors. Many homeowners extend the backsplash to the ceiling for a dramatic, spa-like effect.
Bathtub Surrounds
Tile surrounds around bathtubs and shower-tub combos serve both a decorative and functional purpose, preventing moisture from reaching the drywall behind. We install full-height tile surrounds with proper waterproofing membranes to ensure long-lasting protection.
Accent Walls
A tile accent wall in the bathroom creates a stunning focal point. Whether behind a freestanding tub, in a walk-in shower, or as a full feature wall, accent tile adds texture, color, and depth to your bathroom design. Popular options include large-format porcelain, stacked stone, and geometric patterns.
Moisture-Ready Materials
For bathroom backsplashes, we recommend porcelain tile, glass tile, or properly sealed natural stone. These materials resist moisture absorption and are easy to clean. We always use waterproof backer board and appropriate thin-set to ensure your bathroom backsplash lasts for years.
Popular Backsplash Pattern Layouts
Herringbone
Rectangular tiles laid at 45-degree angles in a V-shape pattern. Herringbone creates dynamic visual movement and adds a sophisticated, designer touch to any backsplash. Works beautifully with subway tile, marble, and wood-look porcelain.
Best for: Modern and transitional kitchens
Stacked (Straight Set)
Tiles aligned in a perfect grid with vertical and horizontal grout lines. This clean, contemporary layout emphasizes the geometry of the tile and creates a sleek, modern aesthetic. Particularly striking with elongated formats like 4x12 tiles.
Best for: Modern and minimalist kitchens
Brick (Running Bond)
The classic layout where each row of tiles is offset by half the tile width, mimicking a brick wall pattern. This is the most traditional backsplash layout and works with virtually every tile shape and material. Timeless and versatile.
Best for: Traditional and farmhouse kitchens
Chevron
Similar to herringbone but with tiles cut at an angle so the ends meet in a clean point, creating a zigzag pattern. Chevron layouts add energy and direction to your backsplash design.
Best for: Contemporary and bold kitchens
Vertical Stack
Subway tiles installed vertically rather than horizontally. This unexpected orientation draws the eye upward, making the space feel taller. A fresh, modern twist on a classic format.
Best for: Small kitchens needing visual height
Basketweave
Pairs of rectangular tiles are alternated horizontally and vertically to create a woven appearance. This classic pattern adds texture and visual interest, and it is especially beautiful in natural stone and marble.
Best for: Traditional and elegant kitchens
Our Backsplash Installation Process
Design Consultation & Layout Planning
We discuss your design vision, measure the backsplash area, and help you select the perfect tile material, color, and pattern layout. We create a detailed layout plan so you know exactly how your backsplash will look before installation begins.
Wall Preparation
We prepare the wall surface by cleaning, leveling, and priming as needed. For areas behind stoves and sinks, we ensure proper backer board and moisture protection is in place. Outlets and switch plates are carefully accounted for in the tile layout.
Tile Installation
Our installers set each tile with precision, maintaining consistent spacing and level lines throughout. We use quality thin-set mortar appropriate for your tile material and make clean, exact cuts around outlets, corners, and edges.
Grouting & Sealing
After the tile is set and cured, we apply grout in your chosen color and clean the tile surface to remove any haze. For natural stone and certain grout types, we apply a penetrating sealer to protect against staining and moisture. The result is a beautiful, maintenance-friendly backsplash.
Spring 2026: Kitchen Refresh with a New Backsplash
A new backsplash is one of the fastest, most impactful kitchen upgrades. Most installations take just 1–2 days with minimal disruption. Spring is a great time to update before summer entertaining.
Expert Tips From Our Installers
Always dry-lay your backsplash pattern on the counter before thinset goes on the wall. This helps you plan cuts, center the pattern, and catch layout issues before they're permanent. We do this on every project.
Current Pricing
Starting at $25 per sq ft installed
Backsplashes have higher per-sq-ft costs due to detailed cuts around outlets, windows, and cabinets. Average kitchen backsplash: $800–$2,500 total.
Pricing updated March 2026
Backsplash Tile FAQs
How much does a kitchen backsplash cost?
A standard kitchen backsplash (25–35 sq ft) typically costs $800–$2,500 installed, depending on tile type. Subway tile is the most affordable; natural stone and glass mosaic run higher. Complex patterns increase labor costs.
What is the most popular backsplash tile?
White subway tile remains the most popular backsplash in the DMV market. However, we're seeing strong demand for large-format porcelain slabs (minimal grout lines), herringbone patterns, and zellige-style tiles for a handcrafted look.
How long does backsplash installation take?
Most kitchen backsplashes are completed in 1–2 days. Day 1 is tile setting; day 2 is grouting and cleanup. Simpler layouts (straight subway) can sometimes be finished in a single day.
Can I install a backsplash over existing tile?
In some cases, yes — if the existing tile is well-bonded and the wall can support the extra weight. However, for the best result, we typically recommend removing the old tile. This ensures proper adhesion and a flat surface.
Ready for a Beautiful New Backsplash?
From subway tile to natural stone mosaics, we bring expert craftsmanship to every backsplash installation. Contact us today for a free design consultation and estimate.
2020 Flooring Showroom
2020 Flooring
5550-F Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD 20852
Mon–Sat 10 AM–7 PM · Sun 11 AM–5 PM
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For over 25 years, residential and commercial members of the DC, Maryland, and Virginia community have trusted 2020 Flooring. Check out what our customers have to say!
5.0on Google“We had a last minute major issue in the flooring we selected from another flooring installer on our kitchen renovation and addition. We had initially loved another flooring choice that we saw at 2020 Flooring. Unfortunately we found out it had been discontinued. Carol from 2020 Flooring went above and beyond to help us locate the amount of LVP flooring we needed by scouring the country. She found just the right amount and was able to get the order expedited so we could continue on the time schedule with our general contractor. Bobby from 2020 Flooring was great in helping us remedy an issue with the subfloor. We now have the exact flooring we wanted which has made our new kitchen and addition complete. Can't thank them enough!”
“As an architect, from the moment we walked into 2020 Flooring, upon seeing a standout recommendation on NextDoor, I was immediately impressed with Bobby and Carol's technical expertise, friendliness and professionalism. They asked the right questions, took their time to weigh flooring options for us without pressure and worked hard to meet our budget for new floors for our townhome. They committed to a date for installation and made it work. Their crew, led by Mariano, was highly competent, discrete, meticulous and worked long hours to complete the job in time. They stand by their work proudly and their warranty is better than anyone else's. Our new floors are fabulous and we wholeheartedly recommend 2020 Flooring!”
“I spent many hours trying to select a quality vinyl floor with the right color combination for my house and Carol at IDESIGN made the job easy with a great selection that I am very satisfied with. In general IDESIGN carries a good selection of quality floors but the added value of Carol's design expertise made the difference and I greatly benefited from her help. Thanks Carol😊”
Reviews sourced from Google. 2020 Flooring was given permission to publish reviews on this site.
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