Glass Splashbacks have been increasing in popularity for years.

The reason, we think, is because the materials are getting cheaper, the printing is becoming more high tech and painting them is becoming quicker.

So, over the course of this article we’ll discover the methods used to make and print splashbacks plus which ones would look the best in your kitchen.

How is toughened glass made?

Before we talk about the best splashback design for your kitchen, we’ll have a look at how they are made and why they are a great option whether you’re going for a traditional look or a modern one.

Hardy, clean and safe – and this is how we do it.

The Glass

Obviously we all know that glass is usually a pretty fragile material, but it is possible to change the properties of glass by heating and cooling it.

First, the glass is heated in a furnace, the recommended temperature can vary but generally the it peaks at just over 600°C.

The glass is then rapidly cooled down by blasting the panel with cold air for 3 to 10 seconds.

This is when the science happens! The surfaces shrink creating tensile stress develop on the surface while the rest of the glass cools and contracts.

This forces the surfaces to contract too and gives them what are called ‘residual compressive surface stresses’ while the inside develops a compensating tensile stresses.

The resulting glass now has greater resistance to heat and improved internal strength.

The fact everything inside the glass is n ow under stress, it means it can not be cut or drilled without shattering.

But, when it does shatter, the pieces are small and not as sharp as normal, or ‘float’ glass.

The glass itself, however keeps it’s:

• Colour
• Clarity
• Chemical Composition
• Light Transmission
• Hardness

So the panels are perfectly for decorating with – especially behind the hob in the kitchen

How are they printed?

There are many ways to get the desired finish you need for the perfect kitchen decor.

Painting – this system is used when you are looking for solid colour. Imagine an enormous printer that uses glass ready paint to coat one side of the panel and you’re pretty much there.

After the panel is coated it is then heated to ‘fix’ the paint. You can even match to the colour of many brand name tones.

Printing – this is the process you are looking at when it comes to pictures. This time we are thinking of an actual printer! Just 100s of times bigger than the one in your home office.

The technology is improving year on year with these machines and the quality of the prints is absolutely incredible.

So, all that holds you back here is your imagination. Use family photos, modern art, landscapes … in fact, absolutely any image you want!

So what splashback is best for my Kitchen?

Well, let’s take a look at some tips ideas for getting that fancy splashback to enhance your modern kitchen, cooking space or bathroom!

1. The right price.

Glass and acrylic are pretty similar in price when you are having the panels printed or painted professionally.

However, you can keep an eye on cost but making sure you measure correctly, ensure the walls are ready to have the panel mounted on and really think about the way you are attaching the panel.

2. Know what you’re aiming for

Plan, plan and plan again!

If you know what effect you are trying to achieve before you start, then you’ll know what colours to use on the wall and what kind of splashback you’ll use to bring the whole thing together.

3. Choose the right shade

The way your kitchen feels will be dictated by the colours that you use.

Using a colour that compliments the cupboards or the worktop is the best advice we can give.

Lighter colours are better for smaller rooms but don’t be afraid to throw in a shot of bright or striking colour.

4. Modern look

Glass is smooth, slick and gives any room a contemporary feel.

If you have a a very modern, clean kitchen design then y can enhance the look by adding a vibrent accent colour to your wall.

Either drop that colour pop behind the hob or sink – or go the whole hog and fill the walls under the cupboards.

Using a splashback with drilled hanging holes means you can change the colour whenever the mood takes you.

5. Let there be light

Glass is perfect for reflecting light around the room, so you are on to a winner straight away here.

So, choose a lighter colour if you have a small kitchen, have a lot of overhead cupboards or you just want a very light and airy decor.

Again, you can do the whole kitchen, under the cupboards, or just have one behind the cooking areas.

Even paint the kitchen in a light colour and buy a plain, see-though splashback.

6. Don’t rush into anything

Of course, splashbacks are not permanent so they can easily be replaced if you get it wrong.

But, if you wait til last, get some samples and really get to grips with what you are trying to achieve, you will be able to install something that really pops!

Find everything you need at Premier Range.