Backsplash for behind kitchen stove

The disadvantages of a ceramic tile backsplash include the complexity of installation. The tile is not flexible, so the surface for ceramics must be perfectly flat. Yes, and styling is best done by professionals, there are a lot of subtleties in this matter.

Mosaic - a stylish option

Quite often, for lining a small kitchen, they suggest choosing a mosaic: a panel or ordinary masonry of small elements - 5 * 5, 7 * 7 cm. As a rule, ceramic tiles act as the basis, although you can use glass, a mirror or metal. Which option is better depends, rather, on the design of the kitchen. However, ceramic mosaic retains all the excellent properties of tiles, but with some reservations. nine0003

The decorativeness of the variant is undeniable: it is much easier to lay out a mosaic in the form of a complex ornament. And mosaic images will definitely not seem boring or trivial. In addition, unlike tiles, perfect alignment can not be achieved here: the elements are small and easily hide small defects.

The weak point is the seams between the tiles. Grout, unlike ceramics, does not differ in hygiene and accumulates more dirt. But when laying large tiles, this disadvantage is minimized, but when laying mosaics, you will have to do additional processing of the seams, at least with a sealant. Moreover, expert reviews indicate that the grout loses its moisture-resistant qualities over time, so it must be periodically removed and the seams re-sealed, which, of course, I would not want to do. nine0003

Natural and artificial stone

This name hides a lot of materials, and not all of them are suitable for the kitchen. The fundamental difference is the number of pores and the ability to absorb water. Material with minimum values ​​is allowed. Which one is better is determined by the distinguishing features.

But marble, no matter how impressive it looks, is not suitable for lining a kitchen backsplash: the material is porous and absorbs dirt. Polishing reduces this effect, but in itself such a surface is short-lived. nine0003

• Granite and basalt - much more practical, but require washing with special products: the stone absorbs coloring pigments. Facing is better to choose a greater thickness than the same porcelain stoneware, since the strength of natural granite, oddly enough, is lower.
  

The main disadvantage of this option is not even the cost, but low maintainability. If the panel is damaged, it will have to be replaced. The installation of stone is also not an easy task: the material is very heavy, requires special glue, and size adjustment is almost impossible, with the exception of clinker tiles. nine0003

Aprons made of steel

This is an option for a modern kitchen in the style of techno, minimalism, high-tech, where the utility of the material is considered its best advantage. The custom finishes are excellent, although the decorative ones are noticeably lower.

• Solid stainless steel sheets or tiles, and sometimes even mosaics, are used for cladding. The last 2 options are much more interesting, since the surface of the steel can be made shiny, matte, embossed, which makes the apron much more attractive. In the photo - an example of a metal apron. nine0002

• Steel finish is better in terms of strength: there is little that can affect this material. Temperature, water, steam, splashes of grease and so on have no effect. Of the chemicals, only strong acids are dangerous.
• Since steel does not contain any pores, it does not absorb dirt or water and, accordingly, does not contribute to the growth of bacteria.

As the reviews indicate, it is still possible to scratch the surface, and even abrasive products destroy the glossy finish. But if you choose a matte and embossed steel tile and make an apron out of it, this feature loses its meaning. nine0003

Glass aprons

Only impact-resistant or tempered glass can be used for this option, as ordinary glass is too fragile. The material is extremely popular, because it is not only decorative in itself, but also provides a lot of other design options. Glass can serve as a protective screen for any finish - from silk wallpaper to wine corks or solid wood, as in the next photo.

• It is difficult to overestimate the possibilities of glass itself: colored, frosted, transparent, with photo printing, with a pattern, relief pattern, painting, in the form of tiles and so on. What cannot be done with glass is to combine it with tiles. nine0047
• Impact-resistant glass withstands very high loads, although it is quite possible to scratch it. Do not use abrasives for cleaning. But glass is completely insensitive to the effects of temperature or humidity. The material does not absorb dirt and is quite hygienic.
• Glass apron - an option for modern styles: modern, hi-tech, eco. Its effectiveness is difficult to overestimate. In the next photo - a glass apron with photo printing.

The disadvantage of the solution is the complexity of installation and cost. To make the work area completely safe, the apron is mounted from a single piece of glass. And with a fair weight of this material and size, its installation is very difficult. Only specialists can install a glass kitchen apron. The cost is also determined by the material: the procedure for tempering glass, and even more so triplex, is an expensive process. nine0003

Plastic aprons

Plastic is an extremely versatile material, so several options can be included in this category.

• Plastic panels are the most common option for kitchen cladding. However, in the working area, it does not show its best side, as evidenced by the reviews: PVC is sensitive to temperature, and near the stove it deforms rather quickly. The same thing happens with the finish near the sink, because there is too much dampness, and the plastic changes in volume under the action of water. As a result, the entire skin goes in waves and changes color. nine0047

Panels are quite suitable for finishing other walls, as they tolerate the general temperature in the kitchen. But at the same time, another factor should be taken into account: plastic, even self-extinguishing, belongs to combustible materials, and at a heating temperature above + 80–110 degrees Celsius, it is irreversibly deformed.

According to expert reviews, such cladding is allowed in a kitchen with an electric or induction stove, where the heat is still less.

Finishing with MDF panels

No less dubious option than plastic cladding. MDF is a chipboard, and has almost all the disadvantages of wood. The properties of the panels somewhat depend on the nature of the top finishing layer: it is difficult to say which one is better, since they are all quite sensitive to temperature.

MDF boards are more resistant to water and steam than wood and retain their geometric dimensions. However, the material wears out faster. The finish is mounted much easier: the plates are light, the fasteners need the simplest. nine0003

However, the mechanical strength for the kitchen is clearly insufficient: an accidental impact is enough to hopelessly ruin the panel. You can not discount the high fire hazard: the material burns perfectly, so near the source of open fire - a gas stove, its use is prohibited.

Apron trim available in many materials. And if they do not suit you for some reason, you can always find an alternative or use a glass screen as protection.

the best ideas for decorating the wall near the gas stove + safety rules

Having started a renovation in the kitchen, we often think about how to sheathe the gas stove so that the coating lasts for many years and does not lose its appearance after the first cleaning.

Agree, finishing the working wall in the kitchen is not an easy task and requires compliance with a number of conditions. After all, cooking is a process that has a strong impact on the exterior of the kitchen: there are splashes of fat, and water, and steam. Over time, all this may not have the best effect on the outer lining. nine0003

Below we will tell you what materials can be used to cover the wall behind the gas stove. And we will understand the intricacies of their installation. Here are step-by-step instructions, provided with visual photos and useful videos.

Contents of the article:

• Materials for decorating an apron
• Instruction on wall finishing
  • Option #1 - installation of ceramic tiles
  • Option #2 - decorating the wall with a glass screen
• Safety rules when choosing a material
• Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Materials for designing an apron

Quite high requirements are put forward for materials for lining kitchen walls. After all, housewives spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing food. Therefore, it is very important that the environment is not only pleasing to the eye, but also practical.

So, materials for protecting walls from a gas stove must have the following characteristics:

1. Moisture resistance . Everyone knows that the humidity in the kitchen is always at an elevated level - steam during cooking, splashes of hot and cold water. All this can adversely affect finishing materials with low moisture resistance.
2. Heat resistance . Near the gas stove, the walls always heat up, and quite strongly. Therefore, constant exposure to high temperatures can adversely affect the wall covering.
3. Hygiene . In conditions of high humidity, bacteria multiply at an incredible rate. Therefore, for the cooking zone, you need to choose a coating that will not absorb anything into itself. nine0047
4. Mechanical strength . This is one of the main requirements put forward for finishing materials for the kitchen. The work area (apron) will be cleaned regularly. And it is very important to choose a material that will allow you to remove contaminants without much effort.
5. Aesthetics . In addition to all the above requirements, the material for kitchen walls should look organic in the interior, because the kitchen is a place where every housewife spends a lot of time. Also, you should immediately take care of. nine0047

Having dealt with the requirements that are put forward for materials for finishing the working area of ​​the kitchen, we will talk about the materials themselves that are used for this purpose.

Finding the right material for the walls in the kitchen is easy. There is a huge variety of finishing materials on the market. In addition, you can order a finish according to your own taste, although it will cost a little more

The mirror coating also has disadvantages. Chief among them is the complexity of installation. In addition, in order for the mirror coating to look stylish and aesthetically pleasing, it is necessary to constantly keep its appearance clean. Therefore, be prepared for the fact that after each cooking, the mirror apron will have to be wiped clean of dirt.

Stainless steel , as a finishing material, is also popular. Its surface can be matte, glossy or patterned. Steel has strength, durability, resistance to moisture and temperature extremes. nine0003

This material is quite expensive, therefore, in order not to spoil the coating during the first cleaning, it is worth considering that it should be cleaned only with the use of special, non-abrasive cleaning agents.

Wood looks stylish and noble behind a gas stove. This is perhaps one of the most environmentally friendly materials for wall decoration. But, before you stop your choice on this option, it is worth considering that such a finish will be very expensive. In addition, for proper installation, one cannot do without the involvement of specialists, and this will also cost a tidy sum. nine0003

Wooden apron is a stylish and environmentally friendly solution, but in order for the coating to last for many years, you need to take care of its proper installation and maintenance

Natural and artificial stone - this group includes many materials and not all of them can be used for wall decoration behind the kitchen stove. Among the materials suitable for this purpose, it is worth noting clinker tiles, granite, basalt and porcelain stoneware.

When choosing such materials for finishing a kitchen backsplash, it is worth considering the high cost of the coating itself and its installation, as well as the fact that if the lining is damaged, it will have to be completely changed, since it cannot be repaired. nine0003

The above are the traditional ways to finish the wall behind the slab, but there are also alternatives that you can do yourself. More on this in the next photo gallery.

Image Gallery

Photo of

Using wine corks to create a backsplash is a stylish and original idea. Corks can be laid lengthwise, across, cut into pieces. But, this option is not durable, so you should take care of its additional protection, for example, by covering it with a layer of glass

Don't rush to throw away your old discs - they can make a great backsplash for a work wall in the kitchen. You can create a panel, both from whole disks and from their parts - it will look equally attractive

temperature differences

If desired, you can create a practical and original apron for the kitchen area from fragments of ceramic dishes and tiles. But do not forget that such a non-standard solution is not suitable for every interior

Wine cork apron

Old CDs for work wall

Sea pebbles for wall apron

Ceramic kitchen apron

As you can see, there are a lot of options for decorating walls behind gas stoves. You can choose a classic performance, or you can create a masterpiece from improvised materials with your own hands. The decision should be made based on your preferences and financial capabilities.

Wall finishing instruction

Next, we will analyze a few simple ways how you can independently sheathe a wall behind a gas stove. What materials and tools will be required for this.

Option No. 1 - installation of ceramic tiles

Decorating a working wall in the kitchen with ceramic tiles is one of the most popular and common options. Of course, this work can be entrusted to professionals, or you can try to do everything yourself.

But, before proceeding with the decoration of the walls near the gas stove, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the progress of the upcoming work. nine0003

Usually the height of the backsplash above the countertop is 50-75 cm. It should be taken into account that the tile must necessarily go beyond the countertop so that moisture and dirt do not accumulate in the joint.

To do this, you need to measure the height and width of the apron itself, not forgetting to take into account the dimensions above the gas stove.

The number of tiles will depend on their size and installation method. Given the possible errors in the calculations and the possibility of spoiling the material, it is better to play it safe and take tiles 10% more than the calculated amount. nine0003

The most economical is the traditional way, in which the tiles are stacked on top of each other without offsets, but laying diagonally will require much more skill

Having purchased the required number of tiles, you can begin to prepare tools for work.

For wall preparation and cladding you will need:

• Hammer drill . It may be needed if there is an old coating on the walls.
• Screwdriver . For mixing adhesive. Only in advance you need to take care of a special nozzle.
• Bucket . It is better to take a capacious plastic bucket with a volume of at least 10 liters.
• Spatulas . To work, you need a narrow, jagged edge and rubber.
• Building level . With its help, the correct laying of the tiles will be controlled.
• Tile cutter . For trimming the edges of tiles if necessary. nine0047

In addition, the following may come in handy: cord, ruler and pencil, rubber mallet, crosses for mounting tiles, grout and, directly, the adhesive itself.

Having prepared all the necessary tools and materials, you can start finishing work.

Image Gallery

Picture of

Step 1 - Preparing the Work Wall

Step 2 - Estimating the Tiles

Step 3 - Applying the Adhesive

Step 4 - Laying the Tiles on the Wall

After all the tiles have been laid, it remains to wait until the adhesive has dried, then remove the crosses and grout the joints with a rubber spatula.

As you can see, the process itself is not as complicated as it might seem at first glance.

Option No. 2 - decorating the wall with a glass screen

A worthy alternative to a protective screen made of ceramic tiles is the use of special tempered glass. This material will reliably protect the walls near the slab from dirt, it is not exposed to moisture and high temperatures, and also has good wear resistance. nine0003

That is why many housewives opt for a glass screen. Yes, and it looks very stylish.

Before starting work, it is necessary to measure the area of ​​the wall on which the glass apron will be attached. It is better to double-check the accuracy of measurements several times in order to avoid installation problems later if the product turns out to be a little larger / smaller than necessary.

To save money, you can order an apron made of transparent glass, and paste your favorite photo wallpaper or a film with a suitable image under it. And you can order a product with a printed pattern, but it will cost a little more

When ordering the production of glass for an apron, you should immediately specify the making of holes for fasteners. They must be at least 5 cm from the corners of the product.

The panels are quite large, so the wall to which they are to be attached must be perfectly flat so that the product adheres to it tightly over the entire area.

The protective glass screen is easy to match with the most diverse kitchen interior solutions. And the ability to apply any images you like greatly simplifies the choice

Before starting installation, attach the finished apron to the wall and mark the location of the fasteners with a pencil. Next, using a puncher and with a nozzle of the appropriate size, make holes for the fasteners, insert dowels and anchors into them.

The next step is to position the glass panel on the anchors and fix it with the caps.

As you can see, even a novice home craftsman can handle the installation of a glass apron. The main thing here is the accuracy of measurements and smooth walls. nine0003

Material selection safety rules

The most important thing in the design of the kitchen space is the right choice of material for finishing the wall behind the stove, especially if the kitchen has gas appliances. In addition to splashes from cooking, this wall will be exposed to high temperatures.

It is therefore important that there is a heat-resistant material behind the hob. In this regard, ceramic tiles, glass, metal have proven themselves well.

If the choice fell, for example, on MDF or PVC panels, then you should know that flammable materials cannot be mounted in the immediate vicinity of gas burners so that such a solution does not turn around. nine0003

Styrofoam, cork, chipboard, drywall and many others can be used as thermal insulation material. The choice will depend on your financial capabilities

Also, do not forget that it is highly undesirable to place a refrigerator next to a gas stove.

Learn more

• 
  Planning kitchen cabinets design
• 
  How to repaint wood
• 
  Plant wall climbers
• 
  Where to put a hedgehog house
• 
  Wallpaper small spaces
• 
  Best bush for privacy fence
• 
  Kitchen counter set up
• 
  Lighting design for living room
• 
  Painting furniture designs
• 
  How to style a coffee table
• 
  Cottage entry doors