Inspiration

Everything you need to know about kitchen splashbacks

Article by Homes to Love

Homes to Love caught up with Liv Harper, interior designer from Mitre 10 to talk all things splashbacks

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This kitchen features white laminate cabinetry with a black marble-look high pressure laminate benchtop and a white-coloured glass splashback.

 

Why do I need a splashback?
Splashbacks are important to protect your walls and cabinetry from moisture and heat, oils and cooking residue. They’re important particularly behind your stovetop/hobbs and behind your sink. They are also a great way to bring in some colour, texture and life to your overall kitchen design.

What are my options for materials?
Tiles, glass, stones like marble and granite, Seratone Panels, Duopal HPL Pyroex (high pressure laminate).

How easy is it to install myself?
It’s not recommended without experience. The easiest installation option would be medium-format tiles.

Will it need replacing?
If installed correctly with the right substrate on the walls, this should last you 20+ years.

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This kitchen features Melteca cabinetry with a high-pressure laminate benchtop, white butchers tile splashback with pale grey grout.

 

What are the latest trends you’re seeing in splashback materials?
The hottest trend at the moment is to wrap your stone bench top up the wall to create a seamless ‘look’, and also geometric or patterned tiles.

What kind of costs am I looking at for splashback installation?
This could be anywhere from $300 – $1300. The most expensive install option is when you need a tiler, and the price is dependent on the size and difficulty of laying the tile.

What is the cheapest splashback material?
Pyroex Panels end up being the cheapest option as they are cheap to install and are a cost-effective product.

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This kitchen has long matte black butchers tiles as a splashback, with charcoal grout.

 

What is the most expensive?
Any solid stone like marble or granite would be the most expensive to purchase, as they are the most expensive product and come in slabs that need to be fitted.

What are the benefits of each splashback material, for example tiles over glass? Acrylic over laminate?
Often a splashback is used to create a feature within your kitchen, and to be a bit more experimental. It is subjective – tiles can bring in great texture, interest and colour whereas glass provides a more modern, sleek finish. Laminates are great because they come in a range of colours and finishes, and are very cost effective. It often comes down to budget and the overall look you’re going for.

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Stone mosaic tile splashback with white grout.

 

Are there any tiles that are a no-no when it comes to splash backs?
A textured, matte surface often found in stones like slate isn’t usually a good idea as it’s hard to clean. You really do want a surface that you can just wipe the marks right off.

These splashback materials and kitchen products are available from Mitre 10.

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