Shopping for a kitchen splashback means first making sense of the different materials available, among which you will come across two primary materials used in the manufacture of kitchen splashbacks:
- Toughened glass splashbacks
- Acrylic (or plastic) splashbacks
To a degree, choosing between the two is as much about personal preference as anything else. They can both look fantastic, they both provide robust protection for the surface beneath and they can both be customised in a variety of ways.
But when it comes to the gold standard of kitchen splashbacks, one of the two is considered superior to the other. While a toughened glass splashback may cost more, it is a small price to pay for what you get in return.
With this in mind, here are the four biggest advantages of toughened glass splashbacks, over comparable acrylic and plastic installations:
Clean and Hygienic
The surface of a glass splashback is completely impervious to grease, grime, bacteria and water. It is a non-porous surface that cannot be penetrated by anything that comes into contact with. This means that not only does a glass splashback repel everything from germs to bacteria to viruses, but that it can also be cleaned hygienically using almost any household cleaning product. A quick wipe on occasion is all it takes to keep a glass splashback sanitary, while at the same time keeping visible dirt and stains at bay.
Heat and Impact Resistant
By its nature, a splashback is designed to withstand fairly heavy treatment. This is particularly true for splashbacks positioned behind cookers or worktops, where high temperatures and frequent knocks are the norm. While an acrylic splashback can offer a good deal of protection, the protective properties of a glass splashback are far superior. Toughened glass can withstand temperatures of up to 400° C, while withstanding surprisingly heavy hits from both blunt and sharp objects.
Cost-Effectiveness
Thanks to its durability, a toughened glass splashback can have an indefinite lifespan. With just the bare minimum care and attention, it is perfectly possible for a glass splashback to last the lifetime of the kitchen. There is little to nothing that can compromise the integrity or performance of a glass splashback, which could provide decades of protection for your walls and surfaces. All of which adds up to unbeatable value for money, as a quality glass splashback is the kind of thing you only have to buy once.
Unbeatable Aesthetic Appeal
The visual appeal of a quality glass splashback is second to none. The beauty of a bespoke splashback lies in the limitless scope of customisation and personalisation. A toughened glass surface is naturally beautiful, reflecting light back into the kitchen to create a more spacious and airy feel. Splashbacks can be crafted in any shape and size acquired, and finished in almost any colour, design or pattern imaginable; a great way to bring life and light into any kitchen without resorting to major renovations.