Splashbacks have graced homes and businesses for generations, playing an important role in protecting surfaces from stains, splatters and damage. Today, the market for kitchen splashbacks is larger and more diverse than it has ever been.
In terms of material choices, colours, designs and configurations, your splashback can be anything you want it to be.
Even so, there are two materials used in the manufacture of splashbacks that remain more popular than most others. One of which is toughened glass, while the other is classic quartz.
Take a look at either of these splashback types and there’s no denying their instant visual appeal. But assuming you only plan on bringing one of the two into your home, which is best?
Is there a clear winner between glass and quartz splashbacks, or is it purely a judgment call?
Let’s take a look at the benefits and features of both in a little more detail:
Classic Quartz Splashbacks
Natural quartz is renowned for its exceptional strength and durability. It is an extremely tough and hard-wearing stone that can stand up to even the toughest punishment and still look completely flawless.
Quartz is naturally heat-resistant, making it great for use in kitchens and more challenging environments. It also has a non-porous surface that is stain-resistant and will not allow germs and bacteria to accumulate. The potential lifespan of quartz is indefinite and no ongoing maintenance is required after a stone splashback has been installed.
Another huge point of appeal with quartz is its fantastic appearance – most natural stone finishes are timeless in their elegance and sophistication. In addition, each and every piece of quartz is unique in its appearance, so you’re guaranteed a one-of-a-kind addition to your home.
On the downside, a quartz splashback will naturally be somewhat on the heavy side and could therefore be a little more difficult than a comparable splashback to install. Also, Quartz splashbacks can be comparatively expensive, given how the material itself carries a much higher price than most similar splashback materials.
Glass Splashbacks
Meanwhile, toughened-glass splashbacks bring many of the same benefits to the table. Toughened glass is put through a manufacturing and finishing process that results in an exceptionally durable and robust material. It can stand up to all types of everyday knocks and abrasions in the kitchen and can also withstand temperatures as high as 300° C.
This basically means that anywhere you would be thinking about installing a quartz splashback, you could also fit a toughened-glass panel.
Like quartz, toughened glass has a non-porous surface that is easy to clean and prevents the accumulation of germs and bacteria. Absolutely no ongoing maintenance is required, other than the occasional wipe to keep it clean. Glass splashbacks also have the potential to offer an indefinite lifespan and can be easier to install than quartz panels as they are not as heavy.
Unsurprisingly, a glass splashback will also cost you significantly less than a comparable quartz splashback.
...and the Winner is?
Choosing between the two is largely a judgment call.
With a toughened-glass splashback, you can choose a panel with a finish that looks 100% identical to natural quartz, complete with a much lower price tag and a panel that is easy to install. Not to mention, much greater flexibility in terms of the shape, size, and finish of the splashback you choose.
Elsewhere, some would argue that the sophistication and prestige of a real quartz splashback make it a better choice.
Hence, it is a case of whether you prioritise practicality and value for money over prestige. A glass splashback can bring your kitchen the same benefits as a quartz splashback at a significantly lower price, and is therefore the more cost-effective of the two options by far.