Backsplash

Generally, you have about 18.5” to work with from the top of the countertop to the bottom of the wall cabinets. Sometimes, behind a cooking surface you will have more room to tile between the countertop and the hood or microwave You can tile from the countertop to the bottom of the top cabinets or from the 4” or 6” backsplash that matches the countertop. Keep in mind, this limits your space to tile to approximately 12-14”. Check with your tile designer or tile setter to see if your choices will work together for a smooth installation. 
        
Finishing the tile – be sure to find out if the tile you select has a coordinating bullnose to finish off the edges of the last piece of tile. If your upper wall cabinets do not end on the same line as your base cabinets and countertop, be sure to clearly choose a stopping point for the tile. Using a sealer for your grout to help staining If you choose not to seal your grout, be sure to choose a color that will hide kitchen stains the most.

Backsplashes can be made from the following materials:
   
The same material as the countertop, i.e. tile, granite, solid surface, etc. either 4” or 6” high or from the countertop to the bottom of the cabinets. Not very exciting, but practical. With some surfaces like solid surface countertops the transition from the countertop to the backsplash can be seamless. This is helpful from a maintenance standpoint. Granite, marble or other natural stone tiles Ceramic or porcelain tile Mosaic tiles.