When designing or updating a kitchen, everyone considers the appliances that will be used, or what color the kitchen will be, but small, vital, things can be overlooked. Splashbacks for kitchens are key to keep a kitchen looking new and clean. They can be made from a variety of materials, though the most common is kitchen tile.
Kitchen tiles are one of the most common materials for splashbacks because they are versatile and easy to clean. The tiles are available in stores in a variety of colors and patterns. Some are easy to maintain, though others may require special cleaners to protect them from damage.
Tiling must be taken care of like anything else in the kitchen to maintain its sleek beauty. Some liquids, such as wine or some sauces, may permanently stain kitchen tile. Some tile can crack or chip, despite its approval for most uses. Excessive pressure or force can cause these cracks, so in a kitchen with a lot of heavy items that may be moved, be certain that some kind of protective cover is used to keep the splashback from getting broken.
A few cracked tiles are not generally easy to repair; the best option is to simply replace them. When installing a splashback in the home, keeping a few extra tiles in case of damage is always a good plan. If lacking extra tiles, it can be easy to match up the tiles by taking in all or part of a broken one to any home improvement store.
Kitchen tiles must be waterproofed with silicone sealant. This will help keep the kitchen clean and safe from dangerous molds and fungus that could spread bacteria into food or beverages during preparation.
Regardless of whether or not the splashback is home built and installed, or put in by professionals, it is a great addition to a kitchen. Kitchen tiles can be picked out to fit any design scheme, and will help keep the kitchen looking fresh and new, even years after it has been redecorated or upgraded.
Aside from using tiling for a splashback, there are a variety of other materials that can also be used. For example, many people use stainless steel splashbacks. These are great in more modern kitchens where a preponderance of stainless steel is used. Glass is also a popular choice as it is easy to clean, not damaged by steam and it can be either textured or plain. Plain glass is a bit easier to keep clean and free from food debris and grease.
Some people like to simply continue the same material their counter is made from up onto the splash back area. This is often seen when granite or other similar material is used for counter tops.
Mosaic tiles are also a popular choice. While they are relatively cheap and can be used to complement the decor, care does need to be taken if you decide on a highly complex pattern. Make sure you are able to complete the pattern in the space allocated otherwise it can detract rather than enhance your kitchen.
Wood is not a really good idea. Wood absorbs moisture and as such you would have to use exceptionally high quality wood that has been very well treated–costs could be quite high to obtain that type of wood. Also, wood does not do that well when exposed to high temperatures and really should not be a consideration if it is to be placed behind a gas stove top for example.