What to Do When Your Kitchen Backsplash Feels Dated: Interview with Chris Chapman of MGS Contracting Services

We Asked a Contractor What to Do When Your Kitchen Backsplash Feels Dated (But You Can’t Renovate)

Introduction

Maybe your kitchen backsplash is stuck in a past decade, an outdated color or pattern that makes the whole room feel tired. Replacing it entirely isn’t always possible, whether due to budget constraints, time, or the fact that you’re renting. But you don’t have to live with a dated backsplash you don’t love. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to refresh and modernize it without ripping out a single tile.

To explore these options, we sat down with Chris Chapman, Director of MGS Contracting Services, to talk about creative fixes for an old backsplash. In this interview-style guide, Chris shares his best contractor-approved tips to breathe new life into a backsplash, all without a major renovation. From simple cleaning tricks to clever paint hacks, his advice proves you can transform your kitchen’s look with a little DIY effort.

CREDIT: PINTEREST

Why Your Backsplash Matters More Than You Think

Q: Why does a kitchen backsplash matter more than people might think?
A: “Homeowners often underestimate the impact of the backsplash,” Chris says. “It might seem like a small detail, but a backsplash is basically the canvas of your kitchen. It ties together your cabinets, countertops, and appliances. If that canvas is outdated or dingy, it can drag down the entire look of the space. A fresh backsplash instantly modernizes a kitchen and makes everything around it look better. It’s usually at eye level, so it can either catch someone’s eye in a good way or a bad way.” Updating a dated backsplash, even with small improvements, can make a surprisingly big difference in how your kitchen feels.

Meet the Expert: Chris Chapman, Director of MGS Contracting Services

Chris Chapman is a licensed contractor and the Director of MGS Contracting Services, a home remodeling company based in northern Virginia. After serving four years in the Marines, Chris founded MGS to pursue his passion for building and helping homeowners create their dream spaces. With years of experience in kitchen and bathroom renovations, he’s seen every backsplash style, from stunning to seriously outdated.

“I love showing homeowners that even if they can’t do a full remodel, a few small changes can make a big difference,” Chris says. He’s all about creative, budget-friendly solutions that deliver high impact. Under his leadership, MGS Contracting Services has built a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer-focused service. When it comes to giving new life to an old backsplash, Chris brings both professional expertise and a friendly, can-do attitude.

Contractor-Approved Ways to Update Without Renovating:

In our conversation, Chris outlined several practical ways to update an existing backsplash without the cost or hassle of a full tear-out. Below are his top contractor-approved suggestions, ranging from easy cleaning tricks to design hacks, each of which a determined DIYer can tackle.

A. Clean and Reseal for a Fresh Start

One of the simplest fixes is to deep clean your backsplash and re-seal the tile and grout. Over time, cooking splatters and grease can dull the tiles and turn grout grimy. “Give that old backsplash a spa day,” Chris jokes. “A thorough cleaning, especially using a steam cleaner to get into the pores of the tile and grout, can work wonders. Proper cleaning and then sealing the grout and tile can make it look almost brand new.”

Grease buildup is often the real culprit behind a tired-looking backsplash. Once you strip away all that dirt and grime, the tile’s original color and shine come through again. After cleaning, applying a fresh sealer will revive the tile’s sheen and help protect the grout lines from stains. This approach is low-cost and something you can repeat periodically. “Make deep-cleaning and sealing the backsplash part of your yearly kitchen maintenance,” Chris suggests. “It’ll keep things looking fresh until you’re ready to replace it.”

DIY Tip – How to Deep Clean and Reseal: Here’s Chris’s simple process for a like-new sparkle:

1. Clean Thoroughly: Scrub the tiles and grout with a steam cleaner or a stiff brush and tile cleaner/degreaser to remove all built-up grease and grime. Rinse with clean water and let the backsplash dry completely.
   
2. Apply Sealer: Using a sponge or brush, apply a high-quality tile and grout sealer evenly over the backsplash. This clear sealer restores luster and protects the grout from future stains.
   
3. Wipe & Cure: Wipe off any excess sealer after a few minutes, then let it cure as directed (often about 24 hours). Once set, your backsplash will have a fresh sheen and be much easier to keep clean.
   

Estimated cost: Cleaning supplies might run $20, and a bottle of grout sealer is about $20. Total: $40 for a fresh start ,  far cheaper than new tile.

B. Spray Tile with Paint-Grade Epoxy

In some cases, the fastest way to modernize a dated backsplash is to cover it with a new finish. Chris suggests using a paint-grade epoxy spray over the existing tile. “Think of it like spray-painting your backsplash with a special epoxy paint,” he explains. “We had a kitchen with a busy, brown granite tile backsplash. We sprayed two coats of a concrete-gray epoxy over it, and it ended up looking like a sleek matte concrete wall. You’d never guess it was old granite underneath.”

Epoxy paint is durable and designed to stick to materials like tile, creating a whole new surface. This approach essentially masks the old design without any demolition. It’s a relatively quick project, but preparation is key. “It can get messy,” Chris warns. “Mask off your countertops, cabinets, and walls with plastic and painter’s tape ,  anything you don’t want epoxy on. The spraying itself is fast, but spend the time to prep right.” Also, ventilate the area well (open windows and wear a respirator) since epoxy paint fumes can be strong.

Once done, this method can turn patterned or colored tile into a smooth, solid-color backsplash of your choice. Epoxy coatings come in many colors, and once cured they’re water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, much like the original tile.

DIY Tip – How to Apply Epoxy Over Tile: If you’re a handy DIYer, you can try this project. Chris recommends:

1. Prep the Surface: Clean the tile thoroughly and let it dry. Lightly sand the tiles with fine-grit sandpaper to scuff the glossy finish (this helps the epoxy adhere).
   
2. Mask the Area: Cover counters, sink, cabinets, and nearby walls with plastic drop cloths and painter’s tape. Be thorough ,  overspray can travel.
   
3. Spray the First Coat: Following the epoxy paint kit instructions, spray an even first coat over the backsplash using smooth, overlapping strokes.
   
4. Second Coat: Let the first coat dry as directed (usually a couple of hours), then apply a second coat for complete coverage.
   
5. Let It Cure: Allow the epoxy to cure fully, typically 24–48 hours, without touching it. Once cured, the new surface will be hard, durable, and ready for everyday kitchen use.
   

Estimated cost: An epoxy paint kit (or a couple of cans of spray epoxy) is around $50-$100. Add $10 for plastic sheeting and tape. Total: $60-$110, which is far less than installing new tile.

C. Refresh the Grout Lines

You might not need to change your tiles at all ,  sometimes simply refreshing the grout lines makes the whole backsplash look new. “Grout is the first thing that starts to look old in a kitchen,” Chris notes. “The tiles might be fine, but the once-white grout is now brown or yellow. My secret weapon for this is a grout pen.”

A grout pen is essentially a marker filled with a special grout paint. You draw over the existing grout lines, instantly covering stains and discoloration (and you can even change the grout color if you want). “It’s my favorite quick fix,” Chris says. “In an hour or two, you can trace all the grout lines and the backsplash looks new again. You can go from dark grout to light or vice versa ,  whatever freshens up the look.”

This method is extremely DIY-friendly. There’s no scraping or removing old grout; you’re just “coloring” over it. Just be sure to clean the grout first and wipe any excess paint off the tiles as you work.

DIY Tip – How to Use a Grout Pen:

1. Clean First: Wipe down the backsplash, especially the grout lines, with a mild cleaner to remove grease and dust. Let it dry.
   
2. Draw on New Grout: Shake the grout pen (and prime it if required) then run the tip along the grout lines. Use steady pressure so the grout absorbs an even coat of the new color.
   
3. Wipe Excess: Immediately wipe any paint that gets on the tile surface with a damp cloth before it dries.
   
4. Let It Dry: Once you’ve gone over all the grout, allow it to dry per the pen’s instructions (usually within an hour). Avoid heavy cleaning for a day to let the new grout finish fully set.
   

Estimated cost: Grout pens cost around $10-$15 each. One pen is often enough for an average backsplash (you might need two for a large kitchen). Total: $15-$30 for a quick refresh.

D. Cover with Peel-and-Stick Panels

For an almost instant makeover with no mess, consider peel-and-stick backsplash panels. These are lightweight panels or tile sheets with adhesive backing that stick right over your existing tile. “Peel-and-stick panels are a fantastic option,” says Chris. “For around $60, you can get enough to cover a standard backsplash. Just peel off the backing and press them on. There’s virtually no prep.”

Peel-and-stick products come in many styles ,  from classic subway tile look-alikes to modern geometric patterns, even faux stone or metal. They completely cover the old tile, so you get a brand-new look without having to demo anything. “It’s great for folks who aren’t ready for a full renovation or renters who want a temporary upgrade,” Chris says. Even though these panels are often vinyl or composite, many look surprisingly realistic once installed.

Installing them is straightforward, but measure and plan first to minimize cutting. “Lay out your pattern and take your time lining things up,” Chris advises. “The result will only be as good as your alignment, so don’t rush it.”

DIY Tip – How to Install a Peel-and-Stick Backsplash:

1. Clean the Surface: Clean your existing backsplash thoroughly and let it dry. The adhesive sticks best to a smooth, grease-free surface.
   
2. Plan Your Layout: Before peeling anything, arrange the panels on your countertop to map out the placement. Figure out where cuts will be needed (edges, around outlets) and ensure any pattern lines up from sheet to sheet.
   
3. Peel and Apply: Starting at one end of the backsplash, peel the backing off a panel and press it firmly onto the tile. Use a level or the counter as a guide to keep it straight. Smooth out any air bubbles with your hand or a grout float.
   
4. Continue Panel by Panel: Work across the backsplash, peeling and sticking each panel. Cut panels to fit at the ends or around outlets using a utility knife or scissors (measure carefully!).
   
5. Finishing Touch: Once all panels are up, you can run a bead of caulk along the edges and bottom where it meets the counter, to seal any gaps and give a professional finish. Then step back and admire your “new” backsplash.
   

Estimated cost: Peel-and-stick tiles average about $5-$10 per square foot. For an average 20 sq. ft. backsplash, that comes to roughly $60-$100. Total: $60-$100 for a brand-new look in an afternoon.

E. Apply an Edge Treatment

If your backsplash ends abruptly on a wall, adding a simple edge trim can instantly give it a more polished, finished look. An edge treatment is a finishing trim or strip that borders the backsplash for a clean, professional appearance. “It’s like framing a picture,” Chris says. “A nice border makes a backsplash look finished and also protects the tile edges from chipping.”

You can use metal or plastic trim pieces made for tile edges, or even wood molding that complements your cabinets. Many older backsplashes lack a defined border, which can look unfinished. By installing trim, you create a clear boundary and a decorative accent at the same time.

DIY Tip – How to Add a Backsplash Edge Trim:

1. Measure the Edge: Measure the length of each exposed edge of your backsplash (for example, the vertical edge where the tile stops).
   
2. Choose Your Trim: Buy a tile edge trim strip long enough for your edges. Schluter-style metal strips or PVC trims are common options. Pick a color/finish that matches your kitchen hardware or the tile.
   
3. Cut to Size: Cut the trim to the needed lengths using a hacksaw (for metal) or sharp saw (for wood/PVC).
   
4. Attach the Trim: Apply a thin bead of construction adhesive along the side of the exposed tiles, then press the trim piece on. Make sure it’s aligned straight. Use painter’s tape to hold it in place while the adhesive dries.
   
5. Seal the Gaps: Once the trim is secure, caulk along the joint between the trim and the wall or tile for a seamless look. Wipe off excess caulk for a neat finish.
   

Estimated cost: Trim pieces can range from $10 to $20 each, depending on material and length. A small tube of adhesive and caulk adds about $10. Total: $30-$40 for a quick upgrade that makes your backsplash look custom.

F. Paint the Tiles

Q: Can you actually paint over tile?
A: “Absolutely,” says Chris. “It’s one of the most budget-friendly transformations. You can paint a tile backsplash and completely change its look.” Painting over tile does take a bit of prep work, but the results can be impressive. Essentially, you’ll clean and prime the tiles, then paint them with a durable paint (such as a cabinet enamel or specialty tile paint).

Chris recommends painting when the tile is structurally fine but the color or pattern is unattractive. “If you match the wall color and paint over the tile ,  grout lines and all ,  it can look surprisingly modern even if the tile itself is old,” he explains. By using one solid color across the entire backsplash, you unify the design so it looks like a single surface. “I had a client do this,” Chris recalls, “and after about $25 in paint, plus $10 in caulk and a bit of trim, that kitchen stopped feeling like Grandma’s breakfast nook.”

To get the best results, use a high-quality bonding primer (if your paint doesn’t include primer) and a tough topcoat like epoxy paint or acrylic enamel. Plan on two coats for even coverage. And don’t forget to re-caulk the edges after painting to make the job look professional.

DIY Tip – How to Paint a Tile Backsplash:

1. Prep the Surface: Clean the backsplash thoroughly with a degreaser (like TSP) to remove any grease. Once dry, lightly sand the tiles with 180-220 grit sandpaper to scuff the glossy surface. Wipe away all dust.
   
2. Protect the Area: Tape off countertops, cabinets, and outlets. Put down drop cloths. (Painting can be messy, so prep well.)
   
3. Prime the Tile: If using a separate primer, roll or brush on a bonding primer made for slick surfaces. Cover all tiles and grout. Let it dry completely.
   
4. Paint the Tile: Apply your chosen tile paint or enamel with a roller (for smooth coverage) and a brush (for grout lines or edges). Use thin, even coats. Let the first coat dry, then apply a second coat to ensure the old color or pattern is fully hidden.
   
5. Finish Up: Once the paint is fully dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape. Re-caulk along the bottom of the backsplash and any edges where it meets walls or cabinets for a clean finish. This will hide any uneven paint edges and give your painted backsplash a crisp, updated look.
   

Estimated cost: A quart of tile-capable paint might be $25. Primer is about $15 (if needed). Miscellaneous supplies (sandpaper, tape, brushes, caulk) another $20. Total: $60 for a brand-new color scheme in your kitchen.

G. Use Stencils for a Designer Touch

If a solid color backsplash is too plain for you, you can get creative with stencils to add pattern and personality. “I’ve seen beautiful transformations with stencils and specialty tile paints,” Chris says. “Stencils let you create a new design on your backsplash without replacing the tile. You don’t need to be an artist, either.”

The process involves painting your backsplash (or at least the grout and tile background) a base color, then using a stencil to paint a pattern on top. For example, you could paint everything white, then stencil a gray Moroccan trellis pattern across the tiles. The end result mimics the look of decorative cement tile or custom mosaic. “One of my clients stenciled over her plain white tiles with a gray trellis pattern,” Chris shares. “It looked just like expensive cement tile, you couldn’t tell it was paint until you got up close.” Stenciling takes some patience, but it can turn a boring backsplash into a one-of-a-kind focal point.

DIY Tip – How to Stencil a Backsplash:

1. Base Coat: Paint your backsplash a solid base color and let it dry completely. (Usually this would be a light color like white or a subtle gray to mimic the background of patterned tiles.)
   
2. Position the Stencil: Take a tile stencil (available in many designs) and tape it to the backsplash. Start at a top corner of your backsplash. Make sure the stencil is flat with no gaps.
   
3. Apply Second Color: Dip a stencil brush or foam sponge into your second paint color (the color of the pattern). Dab off most of the excess paint onto a paper towel ,  a nearly dry brush is key to prevent bleeding. Then, holding the stencil in place, lightly dab or swirl the brush over the stencil cut-outs to apply the pattern. Use a consistent, light pressure.
   
4. Repeat and Align: Remove the stencil to reveal the pattern on the tile. Then move the stencil to the next area (using any built-in registration marks, or just align it visually with the already painted sections) and repeat. Continue this across the backsplash, working systematically. For edges or tight spots, you can cut a smaller piece of the stencil or tape off parts of it to fit the space.
   
5. Seal (Optional): After the stencil paint is fully dry, seal the backsplash with a clear water-based polyurethane or polycrylic. This step will protect your artwork from cooking splatters and make it easier to clean.
   

Estimated cost: A stencil itself might cost $10-$20. A small jar of stencil paint (or sample pot of wall paint) is around $10. You’ll also need a stencil brush ($5-$10). Total: $30-$40 for a high-end, custom look on a shoestring budget.

H. Install LED Under-Cabinet Lighting

Our last tip doesn’t involve touching the backsplash at all ,  it’s about changing the lighting around it. Adding some inexpensive LED strip lights under your upper cabinets can completely transform how your backsplash looks. “Lighting is a sneaky upgrade,” Chris says. “I’ve put LED strips under cabinets for about $75, and it completely changes the vibe. Even dated tile looks warm and contemporary when it’s washed with soft light.”

Usually, a backsplash under only bright overhead lights can appear flat and highlight imperfections. Under-cabinet lighting, by contrast, casts a gentle glow down the wall, accentuating texture and color while hiding minor flaws in the shadows. It also adds a modern, cozy ambiance to the whole kitchen. Plus, it’s a functional improvement for your countertop workspace.

The best part: this upgrade is very DIY-friendly. Plug-in LED strip light kits are affordable and easy to install with peel-and-stick adhesive backing. Choose a warm white color tone for a classic inviting look (around 2700K–3000K), or go for color-changing strips if you want fun mood lighting options.

DIY Tip – How to Add Under-Cabinet Lighting:

1. Choose a Kit: Measure the length of the cabinets where you want lighting. Purchase an LED strip light kit of appropriate length (most kits can be cut to size or come with multiple strips to connect).
   
2. Plan the Power Source: Identify the nearest outlet to plug in the lights. If no outlet is available, you might need an electrician to install one (or use rechargeable/battery-powered lights as a temporary solution).
   
3. Mount the Lights: Clean the underside of the cabinet to ensure good adhesion. Peel the backing off the LED strip and press it firmly in place along the underside of the cabinet, near the back (so it’s hidden from view but shines onto the backsplash).
   
4. Hide Cords: Use adhesive cable clips to hide any visible wires and keep the installation neat.
   
5. Light it Up: Plug in the LED strip’s power supply and tuck it out of sight. Then, turn on your new lights (most kits have a switch or remote). Enjoy the new atmosphere ,  your backsplash will literally shine, and your kitchen will feel more upscale and cozy.
   

Estimated cost: Basic LED strip kits are about $30-$50 for a plug-and-play setup. If you need extra connectors or longer strips, budget a bit more. Total: $50-$75 for a dramatic effect and improved functionality.

When to Save vs. When to Replace

With all these clever fixes available, when is it better to stick with these solutions versus doing a full replacement of the backsplash? The answer depends on the condition of your backsplash and your long-term plans.

Q: How do you decide between using these quick fixes or installing a brand-new backsplash?
A: “It comes down to the backsplash’s condition and your goals,” Chris explains. “If the tiles are solid, no cracks or water damage, and it’s just the look that’s dated, these fixes can buy you years of happiness. Save your money and do a full replacement later when it makes sense.” In other words, use the DIY updates when the backsplash is structurally sound but just ugly or out of style. A good cleaning, a coat of paint, or new grout lines can make an old backsplash look surprisingly good again, postponing the need for replacement.

On the flip side, consider replacing the backsplash if it has serious issues or when you’re undertaking a larger renovation. “When tiles are falling off, cracked, or there’s mold behind there, you’ve got to replace,” Chris says plainly. Also, if you’re already planning to remodel the whole kitchen or you’re replacing the countertops, that’s an ideal time to put in a new backsplash to complete the fresh look.

Budget is a factor too. All the fixes we discussed are relatively low cost. If you don’t have the budget for a contractor and new tile right now, it makes sense to stick with a DIY refresher. But if you do have funds set aside and your backsplash truly makes you cringe every day, investing in a new backsplash could be worth the instant gratification. “Sometimes in a smaller kitchen, splurging a little on new tile gives you that ‘wow’ factor you’re after,” Chris notes.

To sum up, save (use these interim solutions) if your backsplash just needs a cosmetic pick-me-up and you want to be budget-conscious. Replace if the backsplash is damaged or if you’re ready for a permanent, long-term upgrade as part of a bigger project. “Either way, you shouldn’t feel stuck with an eyesore,” Chris reminds. “There’s always something you can do to improve it short of an all-out gut job.”

Final Thoughts

A dated kitchen backsplash doesn’t have to drag down the entire room. As Chris Chapman has shown, there are plenty of DIY-friendly, contractor-approved tricks to revive an old backsplash and refresh your kitchen’s vibe. Whether you start with a deep clean and seal, get creative with paint and stencils, or simply enhance it with better lighting, even small changes can deliver a big impact.

“Your kitchen should make you happy when you walk into it,” Chris says. “If changing the backsplash ,  or even just how it looks ,  helps achieve that, it’s worth it. And you don’t need a huge budget to do it.” So don’t wait around feeling stuck with a backsplash you dislike. Pick one of the ideas above and give it a try, you might be amazed at the difference a weekend project can make.

Ready for a bigger change? If your backsplash (or entire kitchen) needs more than a DIY fix, Chris and the team at MGS Contracting Services are here to help. Contact MGS Contracting Services to discuss your kitchen goals, from quick cosmetic updates to full renovations. With expert guidance and quality workmanship, you can go from a dated backsplash to your dream kitchen in no time.