A Splash-back can boost your kitchen’s style — if it’s the right one
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your kitchen splash-backs (not leaving-out the information given in our last blog article).
The Finish
The splash-back materials you choose should combine functionality and esthetics. Choose a finish that is suitable for the style of your kitchen – don’t use a classical tile with an ultra-modern high gloss kitchen, rather go for glass splash-backs. Some of the most popular splash-back materials include granite; marble; quartz; stainless steel or copper; wood or veneer; cork; glass and the traditionally ceramic tiles.
The Focal Points
The eye is naturally drawn to the stove / cooking area and the sink, thus traditionally these are the areas to concentrate elaborate splash-back designs or finishes. However, if you have another section in your kitchen that you would like to “show-off” such as a coffee or wine station, nothing is preventing you to make use of decorative splash-backs in those sections too.
Function
With the vast amount of different splash-back finishes to choose from in the market, you can’t forget the main purpose: to protect kitchen walls.
Different materials have different sealing needs. Natural stones such as granite, marble and slate needs to be resealed once a year, while travertine needs resealing every two years. Handcrafted art tiles such as mosaics may look stunning, but how effortlessly can they be cleaned? If your splash-back is stainless or copper, will abrasives scratch it? Is the material so sleek, that fingerprints and marks will show? Will you need to seal your splash-backs if it is made from veneer, bamboo or cork? Ask the right questions when you purchase your splash-backs.
At the end of the day, choose the right finish for you and your kitchen; with a bit of pizazz at the areas that matters; and make sure that you know how to take care of your splash-backs.
