Choosing a Kitchen Splashback

Splashbacks are essential in the kitchen to not only protect the wall against moisture and cooking debris but also to create a decorative element. The right splashback can make your entire kitchen pop so we’ve put together a guide to help you choose the perfect one for you.

What is a Kitchen Splashback?

A kitchen splashback is the material on the wall above the sink, cooktop or other benchtop space that protects the wall from oil, grease, splashes, and other kitchen messes that occur when you are cooking or preparing food.

Types of Kitchen Splashbacks

There are many different materials that you can choose from when you are deciding on your kitchen splashback. Each will create a different effect so you need to keep this in mind when making your final decision. Here are some of your choices:

Tiles — tiles are a common splashback material and you can choose between many different shapes, colours and patterns so you can create a truly individualised splashback. However, it can be difficult to keep the grout clean and free of dirt or stains.
Glass — glass splashbacks are becoming ever more popular as they are extremely hygienic and easy to keep clean and they are also surprisingly versatile. You can opt for plain glass, textured glass, colours painted behind the glass, or even to have wallpaper installed behind the glass. However, they can be costly to install and they need to be cut exactly right or they will not fit.
Acrylic Splashbacks are durable, versatile, and available in a range of different colours. As they can be made in one unit, they often have no seams, making it very hygienic as there are no gaps for food to gather or germs to breed in. Acrylic splashbacks have the advantage of looking like glass but are cost effective.
Metaline Splashbacks are highly durable and stain resistant, so they are as practical as they are appealing. Laminex Metaline Splashbacks have a Flame Retardant technology are suitable behind gas & electric cooktops with an advanced aluminium base of 4mm slimline thickness.
Stainless steel — stainless steel is a very modern, clean choice for your kitchen splashback and it is another material that is very easy to keep clean. Be aware that it will easily show smudges, fingerprints, water marks and other things if you are not careful.
Freestanding — some freestanding ovens and cooktops now come with their own splashbacks which is great as you don’t need to think about providing an additional one.
Mosaic — mosaic tiles can provide a brilliant feature when used as kitchen splashbacks. These are small tiles that are laid in sheet form and you can create some truly stunning effects. There is a lot of grout to keep clean however.
Paint — paint is a simple choice and a very economical one but you need to be sure that it is water resistant and easy to clean. The beauty about paint is that you’re practically unlimited in design choices.
Timber — a timber splashback can create a beautiful effect but if you go for this choice, it is imperative that the timber is properly sealed and maintained so it is not damaged by water.
Mirror — mirrored splashbacks can really open up the kitchen but they cannot stand up to moisture, food debris and the other rigours of the kitchen as well as standard glass can.

Considerations with Kitchen Splashbacks

You may think you know which splashback that you would prefer but you need to take into account the amount of maintenance that you are prepared to do and the budget that you have. Some splashbacks can be simply wiped down with a damp cloth to remove all traces of mess, while others may require special cleaning agents to avoid damage or streaks, or take extra time to clean.

Kitchens are one of the expensive parts of the home to renovate so you need to make sure that you stick to your budget when it comes to your splashback so that you don’t short change yourself in any other area. Tiles are a generally economical choice but they can break or crack over time so make sure you order a few extras. Glass and stainless steel are two of the more expensive options .Acrylic and Metaline are newer on the Market but cost effective.