Wallpapered Splashback – A Renter’s Dream Come True
As a self-proclaimed renovation addict, I’ve tackled my fair share of DIY projects over the years. From painting walls to tiling floors, if it can be improved, I’m all over it. But one of my absolute favorite transformations has to be the peel-and-stick wallpaper backsplash I installed in our former rental kitchen.
You see, I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with that space. The brown cabinets, counters, and floors just felt so dreary and uninspiring. But as a renter, I couldn’t exactly rip everything out and start from scratch. ABC Home would never allow that kind of permanent renovation!
So, I had to get creative. And that’s where the wallpaper came in. I’d used peel-and-stick paper in other rooms before, but this backsplash project was by far the most transformative. It took some time and effort, but the end result was a bright, cheerful, and totally removable upgrade that made me fall in love with our kitchen all over again.
Tile vs. Wallpaper: The Pros and Cons
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Wallpaper in the kitchen? Isn’t that a disaster waiting to happen?” And you wouldn’t be alone in that sentiment. Traditional tile is the go-to choice for most kitchen splashbacks, and for good reason. It’s durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean.
But as a renter, I had a few reasons why tile just wasn’t the right fit for me:
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Budget: Tile can get expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of materials, tools, and professional installation. Peel-and-stick wallpaper, on the other hand, is a much more budget-friendly option.
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Permanence: Tile is a permanent fixture, which isn’t ideal when you’re living in a rental property. Wallpaper, on the other hand, is easily removable, allowing you to take it with you when you move.
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DIY Confidence: Tiling a backsplash can be a tricky DIY project, even for the most seasoned renovator. Wallpapering, while still requiring some skill, is generally a bit more straightforward and forgiving.
So, while tile might be the more traditional choice, wallpaper can be a fantastic alternative, especially for renters or those on a budget. Plus, with the wide array of patterns and designs available, you can really let your personality shine through.
Choosing the Perfect Wallpaper
When it came to selecting the perfect wallpaper for our kitchen, I knew I wanted something that would really make a statement. After scouring the internet, I stumbled upon a stunning white and gold hexagon pattern from The Homes I Have Made that I just couldn’t resist.
The hexagon design had a fun, playful vibe that perfectly complemented the more traditional elements of our kitchen. And the gold accents added a touch of glamour that helped to elevate the space.
Of course, choosing the right wallpaper is just the first step. You also need to consider factors like water resistance and ease of cleaning. After all, a kitchen backsplash sees its fair share of splashes and splatters.
Luckily, most peel-and-stick wallpapers these days are designed with durability in mind. The one I used was a vinyl-based paper that was easily wiped clean with a damp cloth. No need for any special waterproofing or sealants.
Measuring, Cutting, and Hanging
Now, I won’t lie – wallpapering a backsplash isn’t the easiest DIY project out there. But with a little planning and patience, it’s certainly doable, even for a first-timer.
The first step was to carefully measure the area I needed to cover. This involved taking into account all the nooks and crannies – outlets, vent hoods, and the like. I then used those measurements to determine exactly how much wallpaper I’d need to purchase, with a little extra just in case.
Next came the cutting and trimming. I actually chose to install the wallpaper horizontally rather than vertically, as this allowed me to maximize the use of each roll and minimize wastage. It did add a bit more complexity to the process, but the end result was worth it.
Once I had all my pieces cut to size, it was time for the fun part – the installation. Slowly peeling back the paper backing and carefully aligning each strip, I worked my way across the backsplash, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles as I went.
The trickiest part was definitely working around all those outlets and fixtures. But by pre-cutting the necessary holes and notches, I was able to get a nice, clean fit every time.
The Dramatic Transformation
As I stood back and admired my handiwork, I was absolutely amazed by the difference the wallpaper had made. What was once a dull, uninspired space had been transformed into a bright, cheerful, and utterly unique kitchen.
The hexagon pattern added so much visual interest, drawing the eye and making the entire room feel more cohesive. And the gold accents? Absolute perfection, complementing the hardware on our appliances and cabinets.
But the real kicker? When it came time to move out, I was able to remove the wallpaper with zero damage to the underlying walls. No spackle, no painting, no fuss. It peeled right off, leaving the surface ready for the next tenant to do with as they pleased.
A Rental-Friendly Renovation
In the end, that’s what I love most about using wallpaper for a kitchen backsplash – the temporary nature of it. As a serial renter, I’ve had to get creative when it comes to home renovations. Permanent changes just aren’t an option.
But with peel-and-stick wallpaper, I can have the best of both worlds. I get to enjoy a beautiful, custom-designed space during my time there, and when it’s time to move on, I can take it all with me. No muss, no fuss.
And let’s be real – even if you own your home, wallpaper can still be a fantastic choice. It’s budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and a whole lot easier to install than traditional tile. Plus, you can always switch it up down the line when you’re ready for a change.
So, if you’re looking to breathe new life into your kitchen, don’t be afraid to think outside the tile box. Wallpaper might just be the rental-friendly, budget-conscious, and DIY-approved upgrade you’ve been searching for.
