Splash Backs - Adding Depth to your Kitchen

 A splashback is important in a kitchen as it helps protect the walls from greasy cooking splashes and other grime. It also adds to the overall look of the kitchen. Mostly located above the stove, you can also have one above the sink and above counter spaces where you do your cooking prep.

You should keep two key things in mind when choosing a splashback: cost and maintenance. Some materials are more expensive than others, while some require more care and cleaning than others. Will you need a standard-size splashback or require a custom-made one? What about plug point cut-outs and installation – all of this will add to the total cost.

Most popular materials

Stainless steel – Modern and sleek, stainless steel is low maintenance and easy to install and keep clean. It's unaffected by grease and steam, but acidic spills (like tomato juice) can cause discolouration. It also tends to show up fingerprints, smudges, scratches, dents and water marks easily. Choose from polished and brushed to powder-coated in a range of colours and shades, including metallic, sparkle and mirror effects.

Glass – A popular choice for its reflective qualities, streamlined look and flexibility, glass is also easy to maintain. Choose from plain glass to textured glass, matte, gloss, frosted, back-painted glass, or a panel with a digitally printed image copied onto the glass. Back lighting for your glass splashback can also be installed to highlight certain areas, create moods or draw attention to an image. Stained or fused glass designs can be made and installed by hand to produce a stunning effect – albeit quite pricey.

Tiles – Most tile types are cost-effective and easy to install. Choose from ceramic and porcelain, to mosaic, glass, metal or stone materials in many different shapes, colours, patterns and textures. They hold up well to heat and most are easy maintain. On the downside, keeping grout clean can be a bother and there's always the risk of cracks and chips over time.