Acrylic splashbacks – All you need to know

acrylic splashbacks

Acrylic splashbacks – All you need to know

Get your kitchen a new look this summer with Acrylic splashbacks. They are widely used across the United Kingdom and are highly durable. They have high impact resistance and make them safer than regular glass splashbacks. Besides, it maintains its colour over the years and does not wear out under testing conditions. Considering bright and catchy colours preference for acrylic splashbacks, their resistance to fading is beneficial for the users.

What are acrylic splashbacks?

Acrylic splashbacks are a cost-effective alternative for glass materials. The material is very light and easily withstand heavy impacts. The acrylic splashbacks come in sheets and are cut in any size and shape as per your dimensions.

These splashbacks are easy to handle and install. You can fit them against a wall either by drilling or using an adhesive. Moreover, unlike other materials, acrylic splashbacks are easier to clean and maintain. They are perfect for a kitchen that needs proper hygiene and low maintenance.

However, you need to make sure that the wall is completely smooth and flat. The acrylic material is not as stiff as glass, and an uneven surface may lead to cracks and distortions. One way to do that is to get thick splashbacks. Though it may reduce the flexibility a bit, it will increase the endurance. The other option is to use MDF sheets beneath the splashbacks. They will provide a smooth surface to stick on.

Are acrylic splashbacks any good?

Considering their multiple benefits, acrylic splashbacks are the right choice to brighten up your kitchen interiors. They provide a colourful ambience to your kitchen while providing a long-lasting service. People are now resorting to the new stylish alternatives to traditional tiles. Here is why you should opt for acrylic splashbacks for your kitchen renovation:

  • Cost-efficient

Acrylic splashbacks are cheaper than other materials and therefore easily fit in your budget. Also, their low maintenance cost makes them a profitable option in the long run.

  • Plenty of colour options

These splashbacks are available in a wide range of colours and textures. You can choose the ones that match your kitchen interiors and brightens up the surroundings.You can also explore trending kitchen makeover ideas here.

  • High durability

The acrylic material is sturdy and easily withstand heavy impacts. Their higher splashback quality makes them an even better choice for a kitchen where knocks and bumps are frequent. Besides, they are easy to maintain. All you need is a wet cloth and a mild soap solution to wipe and clean the surface.

  • Lightweight

Acrylic splashbacks are lightweight as therefore are easy to install. They are highly flexible and can be cut as per your measurements. It’s easier to lift them and put them against the wall.

Are acrylic splashbacks heat resistant?

That’s one of the drawbacks of acrylic material. The glass splashbacks are made from 6mm toughened glass and are heat resistant. However, the acrylic splashbacks can deform at temperatures as low as 80 degrees Celsius.

If you are placing them behind the hob, make sure that they do not touch the pans and other hot utensils. However, if you have a heavy-duty kitchen, the acrylic splashbacks won’t be a suitable choice.

Is acrylic Splashback better than glass?

It depends on your specifications. In some aspects, acrylic splashbacks are preferable over the glass, while in some, it may be the other way round. For instance, in terms of handling and maintenance, acrylic splashbacks are definitely the winner. However, glass splashbacks are more resistant to high temperatures. Let’s compare both the materials in the following aspects:

  • Adaptability

Here the acrylic splashbacks win! They are highly customizable as compared to their glass counterparts. You can print personal pictures on the surface to have a unique and emotional touch to your kitchen. If you want to know how to choose a picture for splashbacks,you can refer to our blog on “Top tips for choosing picture splashbacks in Irenland”.

  • Strength and splashback quality

Though both the materials are highly durable, high resistance makes the glass splashbacks a safer bet. You don’t have to worry much about what you are cooking. The glass material made up of toughened material ensures that you are safe in your kitchen.

  • Price considerations

Acrylic splashbacks are significantly cheaper than glass ones and are a better option for those with lower-paying capacity. The bonus is that the splashback quality is still high. It’s more preferable considering the increasing costs of kitchen interiors.To know more about cost of kitchen splashbacks, click here.

  • Installation convenience

Glass splashbacks are heavier and therefore need a highly trained professional for fitting and installation. However, as acrylic splashbacks are light in weight, they are easy to lift. This further lessens the chances of breaks and cracks.

  • Hygiene and maintenance

Both the materials are easy to clean owing to their smooth surfaces. However, acrylic splashbacks don’t attract dust and are easy to wipe with a cloth. On the negative side, they are prone to scratches and therefore need to be handled with care.

Considering your requirements and personal interests, the choice between both the materials solely depends on you. So, thoroughly read all the features and then come up with the most suitable option.

What are acrylic splashbacks made of?

Acrylic material is a form of plastic with high rigidity and is manufactured from a compound named polymethyl methacrylate. This makes the splashback quality very high. Its ability to allow ultraviolet radiation to pass ensures that it maintains its original colour and does not turn yellow. The material is light and is commonly used in applications like making aquarium boxes, visors for helmets, bulletproof screens and much more.

How to install acrylic splashbacks in your kitchen?

Acrylic splashbacks are light in weight and are easier to fit. However, it’s better to consult a professional for it. The reason is, you may not be able to put the splashback in the correct position. And it may altogether ruin the look of your kitchen. The professionals have all the tools to ensure the angles and the attachment of the adhesive to the surface.

However, you may still need to have an idea about the installation process. It will help you understand what the professional is doing. Here are the steps to fit an acrylic splashback:

  • Inspecting your walls

You need to first check the flatness of your wall. As the acrylic material is thin and soft, an irregular surface may develop cracks on its surface. Also, the walls must be cleaned, devoid of any dust or dirt on the surface. Also, the presence of moisture or flaking of plaster needs to be avoided. Get a painter to repair your wall if there are cracks or breakages. The point is, if the wall is not smooth, the splashback will not stick to your wall and can drop if the adhesive loosens.

  • Checking the fitting of the splashback

Before installing the splashbacks, remove all the electric appliances on the slab. Hold your splashback and bring it closer to the wall to check whether it fits in the measured area or not. Considering the lightweight splashback, holding it won’t be a problem.

  • Fixing the acrylic splashbacks

Apply the adhesive on the backside of your splashback. Put it at regular spots separated by a few inches. Then lift your splashback and place it on the bottom edge. Then slowly push the splashback upwards till it properly fits your wall.

  • Covering with a sealant

Seal all four edges of your splashbacks with a strong sealant. Get a transparent one if possible. A coloured one will clash with the splashback as well as your worktop. The sealant prevents any moisture from seeping in at the back of your splashback.

Tips for installing acrylic splashbacks

The acrylic material is light in weight, and therefore can’t withstand high temperatures. It’s, therefore, better to not fit them directly behind the stove without any safety layers. For instance, you can put up a stainless-steel sheet of 200mm thickness over your cooktop to absorb the heat to some extent. You can also use other material which may serve a similar purpose. Ask your manufacturer to provide you with a list of guidelines about installing and handling acrylic splashbacks.

Tips for maintaining acrylic splashbacks 

Cleaning the acrylic splashbacks is not a big deal. You just need to pick up a damp cloth dipped in soap or a cleaning agent. Make sure the material is soft, as acrylic splashbacks are prone to scratches. Usually, during the installation process, you always get some extra material while cutting the splashback. To be on the safer side, you can test the cloth on a sample.

Options for best acrylic splashbacks in the Irenland

Dublin Splashbacks provides you the best acrylic splashbacks in the Irenland regarding quality designs and outstanding customer service. You can explore our wide range of designs and colour options. We also help you in choosing the right combination for your kitchen with enhanced splashback quality. Just give us a call or send us an email, and our expert team will get in touch with you immediately.

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