These days, there are many options available for kitchen splashbacks if you’ve done your research. Splashback materials include acrylic, tiles, laminate, printed glass, stone, stainless steel, and many more.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, which must be carefully considered. In addition to the initial investment, the material you choose will affect your overall kitchen aesthetics, as well as your daily and long-term maintenance.
Cost is one of the major differences between laminate and glass. While the former might be less expensive upfront, it has a vastly different long-term value than the former.
A comparison of laminate splashbacks for kitchens and glass splashbacks is examined in this article, with 5 key considerations to help you make the right choice for your needs.
The Top 5 Considerations for Laminate Splashbacks vs Glass Splashbacks
1. Cost
The difference between cost and value is often overlooked. It might be tempting to buy a splashback that’s cheaper to install, but don’t assume that’s the only cost.
How much does maintenance cost? In comparison to glass splashbacks, what kind of long-term value will laminate splashbacks provide?
In comparison to high-end materials such as toughened glass, laminate is undeniably one of the cheapest splashback materials available. Next, let’s look at the other factors that influence both options’ long-term value.
2. Durability
While laminate splashbacks for kitchens can last for many years, they are less resistant to heat and moisture damage than toughened glass splashbacks.
Long-term durability of laminate is affected by its tendency to expand and contract over time. Cracks are also more likely to occur on laminate splashbacks. Having been installed in continuous sheets, these cracks spread easily, requiring the splashback to be replaced in its entirety.
For outstanding durability and enhanced heat tolerance, glass splashbacks are made from toughened glass that is manufactured through a series of rigorous heating and cooling processes.
3. Aesthetics
There are a lot of design options available with laminate splashbacks as well as glass splashbacks.
In addition to offering an array of colours and patterns, laminate splashbacks can imitate other materials such as stone, timber, or stainless steel. As long as the tiles are attached securely to the wall and intact, you can install a laminate splashback over them.
Glass splashbacks are also available in an endless variety of colors and designs. You can now create coloured, mirrored, and custom-designed glass splashbacks that resemble tiles, marble, stone, and more, besides featuring stunning images and vibrant prints, using UV glass printing technology.
You can use a glass splashback as a feature wall that makes a statement as well as protect your walls from water, heat, oil, and grease. In addition, glass splashbacks are extremely light-reflective, which illuminates the kitchen and makes it appear brighter and larger. Kitchens with no windows or small spaces are ideal for this product.
Although glass splashbacks are ideal for modern and contemporary kitchens, they cannot be used in traditional, country, or rustic kitchens.
4. Maintenance
If you choose to install your laminate splashback in pre-cut tiles, the joints between the tiles will make it more difficult to clean.
On the other hand, glass splashbacks are probably the easiest to clean. Glass splashbacks are highly stain-resistant in addition to their naturally smooth and glossy appearance that doesn’t fade. Just wipe it down with a clean cloth and warm soapy water and dirt, oil, and grease will be gone!
5. Water and heat resistance
In response to your question, no, you cannot install a laminate splashback behind the gas hob. Due to its properties, laminate cannot be exposed to open flames. Between a laminate splashback and any gas hob, it is recommended to maintain a safety distance of 10cm.
In order to prevent water from getting into the joints, laminate splashbacks need to be installed properly behind the sink and around wet areas.
Glass splashbacks, on the other hand, can withstand high cooking and baking temperatures of up to 400°C and are highly resistant to water and moisture.
As a result, both laminate and glass splashbacks are available in a variety of colours and designs and are easy to maintain. Glass splashbacks, on the other hand, offer greater long-term value for money because:
- A high degree of reflectivity,
- Glossy finish that won’t fade,
- A greater tolerance to heat,
- Exceptional durability,
- An easy to use cleaning method.
The Complete Graphics Company is an online printer based in Australia. We offer competitive pricing, same day / next day production, and instant online ordering. Shipping is available throughout Australia. Please do not hesitate to contact us at (03) 9369 8884 if you have any questions about our products that aren’t answered on our website. Contact us with any other questions you may have, and we’ll be happy to help.