A kitchen's splashback is more than just decorative! A splashback protects the walls behind a stovetop and sink from food stains and grease splatter and help stop a stovetop fire from spreading. Splashbacks can also add a touch of colour or texture to the kitchen, bringing together the cabinets and benchtop materials.

If your home's kitchen needs new splashbacks, consider some pros and cons of today's popular materials. Be sure to discuss your choices with a contractor or decorator so that you know you're happy with all your new kitchen surfaces for years to come.

Metal

Tin and aluminium are easy to cut and apply to a wall, making the installation of metal splashbacks a somewhat easy project for homeowners to manage on their own. Metal splashbacks also add a bit of modern style to an otherwise traditional kitchen, toning down wood cabinets while coordinating with stainless steel appliances. Tin or aluminium splashbacks also reflect light, keeping a kitchen from seeming dark and dull.

The drawback of metal splashbacks is that they can tend to look a bit cold and impersonal and especially against white cabinets and light-coloured benchtops. Large sheets of metal might also look too modern in a traditional kitchen, clashing with other materials rather than adding a touch of updated style.

Plastic and Acrylic

Plastic and acrylic splashbacks are durable and easy to clean. They're also lightweight, making them easier for a homeowner to install on their own. Plastic and acrylic splashback materials are also typically quite affordable and available in a wide range of colours and styles.

Before choosing plastic or acrylic splashback materials, however, be sure to note any precautions about the distance needed between a heat source and the splashback or the amount of heat it can withstand. If you tend to cook on all the burners of your stove and use high heat, plastic and acrylic might not be the best splashback materials for your home's kitchen!

Glass

Glass is very durable and easy to clean and typically resists high heat and flames, making it an excellent splashback option no matter the heat of your home's stovetop! Glass splashbacks also work well with any kitchen style or colour, allowing you to change the wall paint and other surface materials in your home's kitchen without having to change the splashbacks.

The one downside to glass splashbacks is that they're best installed by a professional. Many glass splashbacks are heavy and need proper handling and installing to avoid damage to the splashback and your home's kitchen walls. Contact a company like Toscan Glass today to learn more.