Buyer's Guide To Kitchen Splashbacks

Definition:

A kitchen splashback is an extension of the worktop, where walls are protected from cooking splashes and spills. This usually comes in the form of a tiling but the latest looks include a range of other materials such as glass, steel and corian.

Why Splashback?

Splashbacks have an important practical purpose in the kitchen. They are traditionally installed behind the sink and hob and often around the whole of the worktop area, too. Designed to cope with a daily assault of water, hot oil and any number of cooking casualties that come their way, they can also be used to create an eye-catching design feature.

Above: Orange (Hot Paprika) colour-backed glass, from around £320 per sq m, including templating and fitting, CreoGlass Design(opens in a new window) 

Glass Splashbacks

Glass is an ideal material for a kitchen splashback. It's easy to maintain - all it needs is a quick wipe and polish - and always looks immaculate. Unlike tiles, there are no joins to harbour dirt and bacteria - just a clean, unbroken line. This makes it the perfect choice for modern kitchens as well as adding a contemporary twist to a more traditional scheme. Make sure it's 6mm toughened glass and for a touch of drama, choose a colour-backed version in raspberry, orange or lilac. Expect to pay from £317 per square metre.

Above: Raspberry colour-backed glass, from around £470 per sq m, including templating and fitting, CreoGlass Design(opens in a new window) 

Custom Made Design

Custom-made designs will enable you to tailor the look to suit your setting. However, these splashbacks can be among the most expensive. You can go for a cheaper alternative - putting wallpaper behind a sheet of glass, for example, but get a professional to do the work to ensure a high quality finish.

On top: A bespoke design "Themes Rivers" by Courtney Harper made by CreoGlass Design Ltd stencilled splashback.
(opens in a new window). Prices from £900. 

Stainless Steal Splashbacks

An essential ingredient for any professional kitchen, steel has become extremely popular in domestic kitchens too, due to its hardwearing, non-absorbent qualities. It's an ideal material for worksurfaces, sinks and splashbacks as it's resistant to high temperatures, hygienic and easy to clean. Simply wipe over with an E-cloth and water for a chemical-free way of getting the shine back. Steel does scratch easily however, but this simply adds to its charm. Prices start from £200 per linear m.

Above: Brushed aluminium splashback, from around £40 per linear m,Bushboard(opens in a new window) 

Corian Splashbacks

A solid surface material, Corian(opens in a new window) is the best-known brand for composite kitchen worktops, sinks and splashbacks. It suits both modern and traditional schemes, is extremely versatile and can be fabricated into virtually any shape or design. This makes it ideal for seamlessly integrating splashbacks,worktops, hob bars for heat protection, sinks, spill-proof waterfall edges and even cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Sleek, hygienic and non-porous, it comes in over 100 colours and costs from £300 per linear m.

Quartz Composite Splashbacks

A composite material made of 93% quartz. Available in a palette of 30 colours, there's everything from fresh glossy whites to dramatic darks and a range of sparkling shades that catch and reflect the light. Recent additions include an award-winning collection of matt urban colours called Concrete Block. Long-lasting and strong, Zodiaq doesn't require sealing or any treatments and costs from around £300 per linear m.

Silestone Splashback

A relative newcomer to the domestic market is Silestone by Cosentino. Also made from 93% quartz, it's the only quartz surface to contain Microban anti-bacterial protection. It's also highly scratch and stain resistant, comes in over 50 colours with many in a polished or leather matt finish and costs from £400 per sq m.

Wood Splashbacks

A striking horizontal wood veneer such as zebrano, iroko or walnut will give the splashback a rich, organic look. Team with a large stainless steel sink and glossy granite worktop to reflect the recent trend for mixing materials in the kitchen. You will need to take the time to care for any wood surfaces however, with a regular treatment of Danish oil to repel water and oil splashes but the effects will be stunning. Prices will vary greatly depending on the wood chosen but as a guide, be prepared for anything from £200 upwards per linear m.

Laminate Splashbacks

If you want to create a wood, stone or granite effect but don't have the budget to buy the real thing, laminate provides the perfect alternative for a lot less. Sophisticated printing techniques mean that today's designs have an accuracy and clarity that produces a highly realistic reproduction without any of the maintenance issues or costs associated with the real deal. 

There are plenty of designs to choose from including the latest trends for metallics, exotic wood grains and natural stone with a high-gloss finish or pearlescent fleck design. It's easy to care for, hygienic and comes in at around £30 per linear m.