The Ultimate Guide to Splashbacks for the Kitchen

In the world of interior design and home improvement, splashbacks have emerged not only as a functional necessity but also as a stylish statement. These versatile wall coverings are now a staple in modern kitchens and bathrooms, offering both aesthetic charm and practical advantages. Whether you're renovating your kitchen, revamping your bathroom, or seeking to elevate the visual appeal of your living spaces, understanding splashbacks is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore different types, materials, benefits, and installation processes, empowering you to make informed choices and enhance the beauty and functionality of your home with splashbacks. Welcome to your ultimate guide to splashbacks, where style meets substance and design aspirations meet practical solutions.

Are splashbacks heat proof?

Splashbacks are indeed heatproof. They are designed to withstand high temperatures generated by cooking appliances, such as hobs. This heat resistance ensures the safety of your kitchen and the durability of the splashback, even when exposed to elevated temperatures.

Are splashbacks easy to install?

Installing splashbacks is known for its simplicity. While DIY enthusiasts can handle the installation with basic tools and adhesive, for a professional finish, it's advisable to engage a qualified installer who can ensure precise measurements and a secure fit.

Are splashbacks required?

While not always mandatory, splashbacks are highly recommended in areas where moisture and food splatters are common, such as behind the kitchen sink and hob. They serve as a protective barrier, preventing water damage, stains, and facilitating easier cleaning.

Can splashbacks be cut to size?

Splashbacks can typically be cut to size, but it depends on the material and manufacturer. It's essential to check with your specific supplier or manufacturer to ensure that they offer custom-cutting services for their splashbacks. If they do not offer this service, you may need to select a standard size that closely matches your space or consider other materials or solutions that can be more easily tailored to your kitchen's dimensions.

When it comes to splashbacks that are designed for installation behind hobs, they can't be cut to size, but they are typically the perfect size adhering to the standard cooker hood regulations.

How are splashbacks made?

Splashbacks are typically crafted from materials such as glass, acrylic, or stainless steel. The manufacturing process may vary depending on the material but generally involves cutting, shaping, and finishing to meet specific design and durability requirements.

How are splashbacks attached?

Splashbacks are fixed to the wall either through strong adhesive or mechanical fixings, depending on the material and your preference. Proper attachment is crucial for a secure and long-lasting installation.

Our splashbacks include adhesive strips which hold the splashback in place while additional adhesive sets.

How are splashbacks fitted?

Splashbacks are fitted flush against the wall, creating a sleek and modern look in your kitchen. Their design ensures they are easy to clean and maintain, which is a significant advantage over traditional tile installations.

Why choose a splashback over tiles?

There are numerous reasons to opt for a splashback over traditional tiles:

Aspect	Splashbacks	Tiles
Maintenance	Easy to clean with a damp cloth	Grout lines can trap dirt and require regular scrubbing
	Resistant to stains and grime	Tiles can discolour over time
	No need for resealing	Grout may need periodic resealing
Hygiene	Non-porous surface inhibits bacteria growth	Grout lines can harbour bacteria
	Smooth surface for easy sanitation	Requires more effort to clean grout
Aesthetics	Wide range of colours and designs	Limited design options with tiles
	Sleek and modern appearance	Grout lines can interrupt the visual flow
Installation	Quick and easy installation	Tile installation can be time-consuming
	Minimal mess during installation	Requires skilled labour for precise alignment
Durability	Resistant to heat and moisture	Tiles can crack or chip with impact
	Long-lasting and less prone to damage	Vulnerable to cracking and chipping
Cost	May have a higher upfront cost	Lower initial cost for basic tiles
	Savings on maintenance and repairs	Higher long-term maintenance costs
Grout Lines	No grout lines, seamless look	Grout lines can look outdated
	Easier to keep clean	Grout lines can discolour and stain
Customisation	Can be customised in various materials (glass, acrylic, metal, etc.)	Limited to tile options
	Tailored to kitchen style	May not fit all kitchen aesthetics

Are splashbacks good with gas hobs?

Yes, splashbacks are suitable for use with gas hobs. They are designed to be heat-resistant and provide a protective barrier against heat and splatters. However, it's essential to adhere to safety guidelines and ensure proper installation to maintain their effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions about Splashbacks

Are glass splashbacks expensive?

Glass splashbacks can vary in cost depending on factors such as size, design, thickness, and installation method. While they are not the most economical option, they are considered a durable and stylish choice. Prices can range from moderate to high, so it's important to budget accordingly based on your specific requirements.

Are glass splashbacks hard to keep clean?

Glass splashbacks are relatively easy to clean. They provide a smooth and non-porous surface, making it straightforward to wipe off spills and splashes. Regular maintenance involves using a mild soapy solution and a soft cloth or sponge. However, they can show smudges and fingerprints more readily than some other materials.

Are glass splashbacks toughened?

Yes, glass splashbacks are typically made from toughened or tempered glass. Toughened glass is heat-treated to enhance its strength and safety. This makes it more resistant to breaking, and in the rare event that it does break, it shatters into small, relatively harmless fragments rather than sharp shards.

Are glass splashbacks painted?

Glass splashbacks can come in various finishes, including painted or printed designs. The paint or design is usually applied to the back of the glass to protect it from wear and tear. This provides a clean and glossy appearance on the front surface.

Is a glass splashback heat resistant?

Glass splashbacks are generally heat resistant and can withstand the heat generated from cooking on stovetops. However, extreme and prolonged heat, such as direct contact with an open flame or very hot pan, can potentially damage or crack the glass. It's best to exercise caution and avoid direct contact with high heat sources.

How are glass splashbacks fitted?

Splashbacks are typically installed using adhesive or, in some cases, by drilling and screwing them to the wall. The glass is positioned against a clean and level wall, and adhesive is applied to secure it. The specific installation method can vary based on the installer's expertise and the type of wall.

Can you cut a glass splashback?

No, due to the tempered safety glass used in most glass splashbacks, cutting them is not a common practice. Therefore, the fitting method primarily involves securing the pre-cut glass panel to the wall.

Can glass splashback crack from heat?

While glass splashbacks are heat resistant to a certain extent, they can potentially crack if exposed to extreme and prolonged heat. It's essential to avoid direct contact with high heat sources such as open flames or very hot pans to prevent damage.