When you are installing the backsplash in a kitchen, it’s important to consider all factors to get the best possible finish.
It’s easy to assume all situations will be the same but that’s not always the case in modern kitchens. It’s common for there to be layout concerns that take away from how the backsplash looks and how it is installed.
One situation people often deal with is how to set up a backsplash when upper and lower cabinets don’t line up.
To set up a backsplash when upper and lower cabinets don’t line up, it’s best to install a small row of matching shelves, add backsplash tiles, and line them up from there. Another solution is to use an angled finish.
It’s often seen where the upper and lower kitchen cabinets don’t line up. This creates a scenario where you can’t install backsplash tiles as you would in other scenarios.
Instead of giving up, add the shelves, line them up with each other, and then finish the rest of the backsplash.
It will give you the result you are after.
Here is a breakdown of what you should do as you set up the backsplash when upper and lower cabinets don’t line up.
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Steps On How To Set Up Backsplash When Upper and Lower Cabinets Don’t Line Up
1. Add 2-3 Rows Of Shelves
When figuring out how to install backsplash tiles with cabinets that don’t line up, you will need to consider extending the setup.
How do you do this?
The idea is to use additional materials such as shelves and/or anything else that can continue the line of cabinets.
Shelves work well because you can match them with the cabinets and you can spread out the rows.
This creates a balanced look that is easy on the eyes.

2. Continue Adding Backsplash Tiles
When the shelves are in place, you are going to continue adding the backsplash tiles.
Since the shelves are going to be in line with each other, you are now going to have an even setup that can be worked with.
You can extend the backsplash tiles between the shelves and make it look seamless. This is what makes adding shelves a no-brainer and an easy fix.
Plus, you are going to gain access to shelf space, which is never a bad thing to improve the layout of your kitchen.
The beauty of adding shelves is you can also customize how long they are. This can use up space that would have otherwise been ignored.
3. Add Decoration Pieces On The Shelves To Complete The Look
When the shelves and backsplash tiles are in place, you are now going to want to decorate them.
How are you going to do this?
The best solution is to add tasteful decoration pieces that are going to sit snugly on the shelves and not look out of place. You can pick and choose what works for you when it comes to something like this.
Play around with the options and make sure you are going with something easy on the eyes.
This will enhance the overall look of your kitchen.

4. Go With An Angled Look (Alternative Solution)
Let’s assume you don’t have enough space for shelves.
This is a common issue.
The alternative is to have an angled finish with the backsplash tiles. This means instead of having the backsplash finish in a straight line, you are going to have the tiles angle towards the cabinets that are further out.
This makes it seem like you did the tapered design on purpose and it will not stand out for the wrong reasons.
This has to be done with care but it will work in reducing some of the issues people have when the cabinets don’t line up.
Final Thoughts
These are the tips to consider as you set up a backsplash when upper and lower cabinets don’t line up.
To set up a backsplash when upper and lower cabinets don’t line up, it’s best to add shelves to extend the look. You can then add backsplash tiles in between the shelves to complete the backsplash. An alternative is to install the tiles at an angle tapering towards the cabinets sticking out.
It is always best to add shelves because they are easier to set up and will also give you additional storage space.
They will also look great, which is never a bad thing when you are attempting to add a bit of quality to your kitchen.
Look at the layout of your kitchen cabinets before deciding. For some, the shelves are going to be the best fit but others will need to go with the angled backsplash tiles.
It comes down to what works for your kitchen.
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