Creating the perfect kitchen can be a challenge, as there are many different things to take into consideration.
However, most people would say the most important thing is finding the perfect blend of beautiful aesthetics and functionality. After all, a good kitchen needs to serve both purposes.
This is one of the main reasons a splashback is necessary for any kitchen space. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep the area clean and safe from food residue, oil or moisture. Not only do these factors affect the integrity of your furnishings, but they also make for an unhygienic cooking area.
There are many types of materials that can be used to make splashbacks, each coming with its own advantages and disadvantages.
The best one for your kitchen depends on your requirements as well as the final design you’re aiming for. Here are some of the the most popular splashback choices in kitchen design.
Copper
Copper splashbacks are highly underrated, given their extensive list of benefits. As an antimicrobial agent, copper hinders the development of pathogens and microorganisms, an essential feature for any kitchen.
If cleanliness is crucial for you, there’s no better choice than copper. Many cultures have been knowledgeable about its antimicrobial features since antiquity, and modern research shows that copper surfaces effectively removed as much as 99.9% of bacteria within two hours.
Despite its flexible, malleable nature, copper is actually an incredibly sturdy material. It is highly resistant to temperature variations, including extreme heat, as well as scratches, dents and moisture.
Since the kitchen sees a lot of wear and tear, copper is the ideal material. It is also low maintenance, being easy to clean. Over time, you’ll begin to notice the characteristic natural patina that occurs on copper due to its exposure to oxygen and sunlight. Many owners are particularly fond of this process, seeing it as adding character and personality to the piece.
The colour changes from soft, golden brown to striking blue and green. Some look to achieve the look by applying vinegar to their splashback or opting for a piece that is aged during the manufacturing process.
This is one of the aspects that adds to the aesthetic appeal of copper. Its vibrant shades make your kitchen design more intriguing. It is also the best choice for a kitchen design inspired by retro styling.
Tiles
Using tiles for your splashback allows you to create an elegant style that doesn’t only add colours and patterns to your kitchen design but also different textures, contributing to the overall look and feel.
Having tiles as your material of choice can increase your homes value, as the design has become particularly popular over the past few years, with many prospective homeowners looking to have one as well.
They are also cost-effective, and there’s a wide variety of designs you can opt for. This means they’re a versatile choice, and you won’t have to plan the look of your entire kitchen based on this feature.
However, compared to the copper splashback you could easily install yourself, the tiles are a more challenging fixture for which you may need professional help.
This means the costs can add up, and even though the tiles themselves aren’t pricey, the total installation costs can make them so.
It’s also not advisable to start the endeavour yourself and get it wrong, as fixing the damage will cost extra. Hygiene could also be an issue, as the crevices between the tiles can collect dust and dirt, making them a hotbed for bacterial growth.
Glass
Glass is an elegant material to have in your kitchen. You have the option to choose between plain, transparent or tinted glass.
The first one is versatile, lending itself well to any possible design or furniture options, while the latter is more appropriate for those looking to create a striking look.
Glass is also naturally resistant to splashes, making it easy to clean. You can choose a personalised item if you’re not satisfied with anything you see in the store. Printed glass is becoming more popular, as are designs featuring crackles or optical effects.
The glass used for splashbacks is typically highly resistant, as it is made explicitly for a heavy-duty purpose. So, even if it seems fragile, you can rest assured that it won’t shatter if pots or bags hit it.
The main disadvantage of the glass splashback is that it requires more maintenance work to remain clean. All marks, including fingerprints, dust or food, show on it more easily. Failing to clean it well will create the appearance of an unkempt space.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is a well-known low-maintenance material that can be used in many ways within the household. It won’t cause any headaches when it comes to upkeep while providing your kitchen with a modern look.
Any stainless steel or chrome fixtures within the kitchen create a sleek, polished look that lends itself well to minimalistic or industrial designs.
Although it is a well-known heat conductor, stainless steel is resistant to high temperatures and moisture damage. And, of course, it is incredibly durable. In many cases, it can last forever, so if you want to reduce costs and don’t want to worry about replacing your splashback periodically, go for stainless steel.
But just like glass, any grease or stain will show up quickly due to the material’s reflective nature. Although it is easy to clean, wiping it down a couple of times a day can still be burdensome.
Despite its sturdiness, it is highly susceptible to thin scratches, so you must always be mindful of keeping utensils, dishware and cookware within a safe distance from it. Scratches can also occur from cleaning, so make sure to use a soft cloth or sponge. It is also pricier than other options. Despite its longevity, the upfront costs might still be too much for your budget.
Choosing the right splashback for your kitchen largely depends on your taste, the style you want to achieve within the space, and other particular requirements.
The best splashback is the one that helps you keep your kitchen clean and nice-looking, so it’s worth considering the pros and cons of each material before committing.
