Kitchen Splashback Installation: Important Points to Consider

A high-quality kitchen splashback can be surprisingly transformative. Cost-effective and with endless scope for customisation, there is no better way to bring something truly unique into your kitchen.

The beauty of bespoke splashback design lies in the ability to let your imagination run wild. Not to mention, the benefit of being supplied with a splashback that has already been precision-cut to size.

Upon receipt of your carefully crafted splashback, all that’s left to do is mount it in place. Which begs the question – how easy (or otherwise) is it to install a splashback? Can you fit your kitchen splashback yourself, or is it better to hire help?

Screw Fixings vs. Adhesives

Irrespective of the type of splashback you choose, the installation process will take place by one of two methods:

1. The use of special adhesives
2. Conventional screws and fixings

Generally speaking, the design of your splashback will determine which of these the more appropriate option is.

For example, if you are installing a transparent splashback through which the surface below can be seen, conventional screws should be used. By contrast, any type of opaque splashback you cannot see through can be fitted using adhesives.

This is something you will need to consider before ordering, as it is advisable to have your supplier cut the screw holes you need in your panel. Glass splashbacks in particular must be cut and drilled with extreme care, to avoid potential cracks or breakages.

Hence, if you plan to attach your splashback to your wall with screws, ensure your supplier is informed while ordering.

Adhesive Splashback Installations

Installing an opaque splashback using adhesives is surprisingly simple. All you need is an appropriate silicone-based adhesive, in order to fit the panel in the same way as a conventional tile.

You simply ensure that both surfaces are clean and dry, apply the quantity of adhesive specified by the manufacturer, and press it in place. While doing so, be sure to use a spirit level to make sure it is flawlessly level.

Once the adhesive has set in place, silicone sealer can then be used around the edges to create a watertight seal. The last thing you want is for moisture to find its way beneath your splashback and potentially compromise the surface below.

Screw Fixings

With screw fixings, it is no more difficult than attaching anything else to the wall. That said, the screws need to be tightened with pinpoint precision – never with the kind of force that could crack the glass.

Screwing a splashback in place is a breeze, after which the same watertight seal must be created using silicone sealant.

Just be mindful of the fact that if you plan on drilling holes in your kitchen walls, you need to ensure that there are no wires or pipes beneath the surface.  Be particularly careful if you are installing a splashback near your cooker, as there may be hidden hazards to take into account.

Fitting a Glass Splashback Over Tiles

There are a few important things you need to bear in mind, if you plan on fitting a splashback over the tiles already on your kitchen wall.

Firstly, drilling holes in tiles for screw fittings can be tricky, due to their fragility. Unless you have the right equipment to get the job done, your tiles could crack or shatter during the process.

Secondly, texture surfaces and tiles that are not perfectly flat can cause issues when applying adhesives. You will need to consider carefully whether the surface of your tiles is appropriate for this type of installation method.

You need to make sure your existing tiles properly adhere to the wall and that their adhesive is in good condition. This is because when you install your new splashback, the existing glue will effectively bear the weight of two kitchen splashbacks.