A bespoke splashback can be just the thing for transforming the visual appeal and practicality of your kitchen, without breaking the bank. Even the most elaborate and comprehensively customised splashback will typically set you back less than £100 – delivery included.
But when it comes to splashback installation, it depends entirely on your preferred approach. You can hire a contractor to fit your splashback on your behalf, or you can go with the DIY option.
How Much Does Professional Splashback Installation Cost?
It is impossible to pin down splashback installation costs to an exact figure. Countless factors will influence how much you can expect to pay – your location, the size and configuration of the splashback, the extent to which the surface beneath needs to be prepared and so on.
As a very basic indication, you can expect to pay anything from £30 to £100 to have your splashback installed professionally. Compare quotes from several contractors before deciding whom to go with, and check reviews from past customers before hiring any contractor.
How Difficult is DIY Splashback Installation?
In most instances, DIY splashback installation can be surprisingly simple. It is essentially like installing a single large tile, and can be handled by anyone who knows their way around a toolbox.
Of course, larger splashbacks (and those with unusual shapes/configurations) can be more challenging to install than their smaller counterparts. But by knowing what to expect in advance, you can ensure you have both the equipment and confidence needed to get the job done right.
The Basics of Kitchen Splashback Installation
To install your kitchen splashback without outside help, you will need the following basic provisions:
- Your custom kitchen splashback cut to size
- High-quality mounting adhesive
- Silicone sealant
- A spirit level
If you plan on attaching your splashback to your wall with screws, you will need to ensure the holes have been predrilled in the panel in the right location. It is generally inadvisable to attempt to drill these holes yourself, as to do so could risk the entire panel shattering.
With your tools and equipment in place, the basics of installing a custom kitchen splashback are as follows:
Step 1: Ensure the surface is clean and in a good state of repair
First up, it is essential to ensure that the surface you intend to fix the splashback to is in good condition. Of course, this counts double if you are installing a transparent splashback, through which you will be able to see the surface beneath.
But even if the splashback you are fitting is opaque, a clean and even surface in good condition is essential to ensure strong and long-lasting adhesion. Give the surface a good clean, make sure all residual grease is removed, and tend to any minor repairs that need to be performed.
Step 2: Apply the sealant to the surface
When the surface is fully clean and dry, you can begin the process of adding the adhesive – in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. This may involve adding sealant to the splashback itself or the wall, or both. If some or all of the splashback you are installing is transparent, you will need to be extra careful regarding where you apply the adhesive.
Note – some types of splashbacks need to be installed without the use of adhesives (i.e. with screws) to preserve their appearance.
With the adhesive in place, you will then be able to press your splashback firmly into position. Use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly level, and hold it in place for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. Ensure you are perfectly happy with its placement, before letting go and leaving it to dry.
Step 3: Seal around the edges
After giving the sealant the appropriate amount of time to cure, you can then set about sealing around the edges. Care and attention are needed at this stage, as your goal is to create a flawless watertight seal to protect the surface beneath.
Depending on your kitchen’s décor and style, it may be better to go with a tinted sealant than standard white. Take your time, applying no more sealant than is needed to plug the gaps between the surface and the splashback. Wipe away as much residual sealant as possible while it is still wet, as it can be much more difficult to remove after it dries.
Step 4: Polish your splashback
Last up, you simply need to give the sealant ample time to dry, before giving the whole panel a good polish.
24 hours or so is usually the recommended curing time, during which it is advisable not to expose your splashback to any particularly high temperatures, or excess humidity.
A Note on Screw Fixings
Attaching a splashback to a wall with screws and plugs can be just as straightforward. However, there are a few things you will need to bear in mind, if opting for this approach:
- As mentioned, you will need to request that the screw holes needed are pre-drilled into the panel on your behalf in the required locations.
- When considering the location for your splashback, be mindful of any pipes or cables beneath the surface of the wall.
- Under no circumstances should excessive force be used when attaching a splashback to a wall with screws. Doing so could result in the panel cracking or shattering.
- A large glass splashback can be fairly heavy, so you need to ensure that the screws you use have a sufficient size to accommodate its weight.
The same basic rules also apply with acrylic splashbacks, though it may be possible to drill your own holes safely in an acrylic panel.
Ask the Experts...
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the splashback installation process, we would be delighted to hear from you anytime. Call the team at DIY Splashbacks for an obligation-free consultation, or email us with details of your requirements and we will get back to you as promptly as possible.