Finishing working area in the kitchen requires compliance with a number of conditions. Culinary processing is a process that has a varied and very strong effect: there is steam, cold water, splashes of hot fat, and dyes.
So not every material is suitable.
Requirements for a kitchen apron
The finishing must simultaneously satisfy very high practical and aesthetic requirements. The housewife spends a lot of time in the kitchen, and if the person preparing lunch and dinner is surrounded by ugly, worn-out objects, the furniture is located inconveniently, and it is impossible to wash grease and soot stains from the wall near the stove, you can forget about delicious dishes.
Ceramic tiles as finishing for the work area
This option can be safely called the most traditional and most popular. The “blame” for this is extremely good combination user qualities, exceptional variety and quite affordable cost. Main feature material is its low porosity. And since there are no pores, moisture will not be absorbed and bacteria will not multiply.
This option has a lot of advantages, so this type of cladding has been done and will continue to be done for a long time.
The disadvantages include the complexity of installation. Tiles are not flexible, so the surface under the ceramics must be perfectly flat. And styling is best done by professionals; there are many subtleties in this matter.
Mosaic - a stylish option
Quite often for cladding small kitchen They suggest choosing a mosaic: panels or ordinary masonry from small elements - 5 * 5, 7 * 7 cm. As a rule, the base is ceramic tiles, although you can use glass, mirror or metal. Which option is better depends rather on the design of the kitchen. However, ceramic mosaics retain all the excellent properties of tiles, but with some reservations.
The decorative nature of this option 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. Moreover, unlike tiles, you don’t have to achieve perfect alignment here: the elements are small and easily hide small defects.
The weak point is the seams between the tiles. Grout, unlike ceramics, is not hygienic and accumulates more dirt. But when laying large tiles this drawback is minimized, but when laying mosaics you will have to do additional treatment of the seams, at least with a sealant. Moreover, expert reviews indicate that grout loses its moisture-resistant qualities over time, so periodically it must be removed and the seams re-grouted, which, of course, one would not want to do.
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 parameters is allowed. Which one is better is determined by its distinctive features.
But marble, no matter how impressive it looks, is not suitable for cladding a kitchen backsplash: the material is porous and absorbs dirt. Polishing reduces this effect, but such a surface itself is short-lived.
The main disadvantage of this option is not even the cost, but the low repairability. If the panel is damaged, it will have to be replaced. Installing stone is also not an easy task: the material is very heavy, requires special glue, adjusting the dimensions is almost impossible with the exception of clinker tiles.
Steel aprons
This is an option for techno style, where the utilitarian nature of the material is considered its best advantage. The custom finishing qualities are excellent, although the decorative ones are noticeably lower.
As reviews indicate, it is still possible to scratch the surface, and abrasive products destroy the glossy finish. But if you choose matte and embossed steel tiles and make an apron from it, this feature loses its significance.
Glass aprons
For this option, you can only use impact-resistant or tempered glass, since regular glass is too fragile. The material is extremely popular because it is not only decorative in itself, but also provides many other design possibilities. Glass can serve as a protective screen for any decoration - from silk wallpaper to wine corks or solid wood, as in the next photo. 
- It is difficult to overestimate the capabilities of the glass itself: colored, matte, transparent, with photo printing, with a pattern, a relief pattern, painting, in the form of tiles, and so on. What you can’t do with glass is combine it with tiles.
- Impact-resistant glass can withstand very significant 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 completely hygienic.
- – option for modern styles: , hi-tech, eco. Its effectiveness is difficult to overestimate. In the next photo - .
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 given the considerable weight and size of this material, its installation is very difficult. Only specialists can do this. The cost is also determined by the material: the procedure for tempering glass, and especially triplex, is an expensive process.
Plastic aprons
Plastic is an incredibly versatile material, so there are several options that can be included in this category.
- - most regular option for tiling the kitchen. However, in the work area it does not perform at its best, as reviews indicate: PVC is sensitive to temperature, and near the stove it deforms quite quickly. The same thing happens with the finish near the sink, since the dampness here is too high, and the plastic changes in volume under the influence of water. As a result, the entire sheathing comes in waves and changes color.
The panels are quite suitable for finishing other walls, since they tolerate the general temperature in the kitchen. But at the same time, it is worth considering another factor: plastic, even self-extinguishing, is a flammable material, and at heating temperatures above +80–110 degrees Celsius it is irreversibly deformed.
According to expert reviews, such cladding is allowed in kitchens with electric or induction hob, where the heating is, nevertheless, less.
Finishing from MDF panels
No less dubious an option than plastic cladding. MDF – particle board, and has almost all the disadvantages of wood. The properties of the panels somewhat depend on the nature of the top finishing layer: which is better is difficult to say, since they are all quite sensitive to temperature.
The photo shows MDF with acrylic coating. MDF boards are more resistant to water and steam than wood and retain their geometric dimensions. However, the material wears out faster. Installation of the finish is much simpler: the slabs are light, the fasteners required are the simplest.
However mechanical strength for the kitchen it is clearly insufficient: an accidental blow is enough to hopelessly damage the panel. The high fire hazard cannot be ignored: the material burns well, so its use near a source of open fire - a gas stove - is prohibited.
Accepts many materials. And if they are not satisfactory for some reason, you can always find an alternative or use a glass screen as protection.
Ceramic tiles are one of the best and most popular materials for decorating a kitchen backsplash. But far from the only one. Let's look at the pros and cons of alternative materials - wall panels, skinali (tempered glass). And with the nuances of laying out a tiled apron that you may not have guessed about.
1. Laminated wall panel
For whom:
- for those who want quick changes in the kitchen without a messy renovation.
- for those who are renovating their kitchen in super-economy mode;
- for tenants of granny chic style apartments when it is important to close old apron in the kitchen, but the owner does not agree to expensive repairs;
A rich palette, including stone, wood, tile, with the ability to order fancy patterns; There are matte and glossy, textured. Typically, laminated panels are ordered as a companion to a laminated countertop - they are made in the same color.
Budget material; the price is comparable to the cost of inexpensive ceramic tiles.
Very easy to install and dismantle - no need to “dissolve the dirt”. But if you're tired, you can replace it in literally an hour. Can be glued directly on top old tiles(if thickness does not interfere), there is no need to prepare the surface in any special way.
This sheet material, and the sheet may not be of sufficient size. With a large kitchen, joints will inevitably appear, which (at best) will be formed with an aluminum profile, as in the photo. Unlike tile grout, it is intrusive and not always aligned with the lines of the upper and lower cabinets.
— For the joint in the corner, metal corner guides are used. It is also better to cover the end of the panel with a metal plate to make it look neat. Unlike chipboard countertops, the ends of the laminated panel are not covered with an adhesive edge. This means that these will be places unprotected from moisture. If you do not treat them with sealant during installation, the panel will quickly become unusable.
- Cannot be installed next to gas stove. Only if the stove has a lid (and it is this that will protect the wall when raised) is this option possible. But in kitchens with hobs without a protective cover, it is better to opt for other materials.
Fact: The width of a laminated panel sheet rarely exceeds 60 cm. If you need to place the apron behind the hood, a horizontal joint may form.
2. Artificial stone wall panel
For whom: for those who are looking for a “shortened” apron of an unusual shape, as in the example in the photo; for those who need an apron without a “plinth” (inevitable in the case of chipboard wall panels). Price: from 3000 rub. per p.m; depends on the brand and composition artificial stone.
The panel is glued to the tabletop during installation, which eliminates gaps and water ingress. No baseboard needed.
The apron can be made curly, do not bring it to upper cabinets.
The wall panel made of artificial stone is glued and sanded in such a way that the joints are not visible - for any length of the kitchen. + Repairable: artificial stone is restored to its original appearance with the help of simple grinding.
- The material is released and bright colors, but it is always monochromatic or has stone inclusions of various types. The texture can hardly be called “rich”.— Such a panel costs at least twice as much as a laminated wall panel.
3. Flexible veneer (artificial stone in veneer, flexible stone)
For whom: for those who need an invoice natural stone or natural wood at a relatively affordable price.Price: from 5000 rub. per sq.m. The flexible stone consists of a sandstone cut 1-2.5 mm thick, a binder polymer and a textile base. In the photo - spruce veneer on a Corian base.
Flexible veneer is practically indistinguishable from the original in appearance.
Subject to local repair.
Easy to install without the help of specialists.
— Limited number of shades.
— Requires special care due to its hygroscopicity: processing protective impregnations once a year.
4. Skinali: tempered glass wall panel
For whom:
- for those who want to dissolve the kitchen in the living room;
- when there is a task to use wallpaper (covered with glass) instead of an apron;
- for those who are looking for a durable backsplash option without seams, but with a non-speckled / non-stone pattern.
Quick to install option.
The ability to make any color and apply any design, it can be made transparent or mirrored.
- Due to its limited size, it is best suited for small kitchens.
— Requires a perfectly flat wall surface, since installation is carried out using special fasteners, and if the wall is uneven, the glass may crack.
— The glossy surface of the glass requires constant care.
5. Boiserie: wood wall panel
For whom:
- for those who want to visually extend a set without upper cabinets;
- for those who need to integrate the kitchen into the surrounding interior;
- for owners of a spacious kitchen in a classic style.
Boiserie is a modular design consisting of narrow panels of different heights mounted in a groove. For installation, external and internal corners, as well as end elements. Boiserie panels are often used in combination with artificial stone, for example, decorative finishing buffet areas.
Nice option for an interior that flows into a living space.
Boiserie can be ordered in an unexpected finish - aged, tinted, unexpectedly painted.
— Difficult to clean due to the presence of grooves.
— Quite a high price.
6. Mosaic apron
For whom:- for lovers of colorful decors and glitter;
- for owners of a small kitchen.
A wide variety of sizes and shapes: from squares and rectangles to circles and pebbles.
Variety in materials used: glass, ceramics, stone, metal, wood.
Supplied in sheets of approximately 30x30 cm, which makes installation easier.
Can be used on radius elements.
Possibility to cut the sheet and use undercuts.
— High consumption of grout.
— Some elements may shift or peel off from the base during installation, which requires painstaking restoration work.
7. Ceramic tiles
For whom: for those who choose proven and understandable solutions - most workers know how to work with tiles, laying the apron will not cause any difficulties.Price: from 1000 rub. per sq. m - consists of the cost of tiles, grout and installation services.
+ Rich in patterns and formats, thanks to which you can achieve various effects by styling or choosing a bright collection.You can choose both expensive and a budget option tiles
Not sheet material. There is no need to cut and work with large parts.
— Requires care and accuracy when laying out, skill from the tiler. - Suggests dirt during repairs.
— It is possible to overpay for extra meters when purchasing tiles in boxes.
What is important when laying a tile backsplash?
1. Choose the appropriate format
In a small kitchen, a large format will look out of place, just as in a spacious one - a small mosaic. The most economical to use is medium format. If you compare the cost of installation, the small format is more expensive. If we talk about the price of the material, then you are more likely to overpay for large-format tiles: more tiles - more leftovers (and therefore unnecessary expenses). But an apron made from large-format tiles is easier to keep clean: there are fewer seams and less chance of fungus growing in them. Tip: Order the kitchen first. You just need to order - in this case you will finally decide on the project and will not change anything. When you pay for the furniture order and receive the project with dimensions, you will clearly understand which zones will be tiled and what their area will be. And then you will be able to more accurately calculate the consumption of tiles (and afford more expensive collections).2. Decide on the size
The fact is that 60 cm is not the only possible size of a tiled kitchen apron. Firstly, this is the apparent size (the actual size should be larger). And secondly, in order not to get the “we didn’t have enough money” effect, the tiles should be behind the hood and “somewhere upstairs”, behind the open shelves.How to determine the minimum size of a kitchen tile backsplash
Linear kitchen
The day we start, we are looking for the estimated lower border of the apron (determined by the kitchen set you ordered). We add the height of the base (legs) and the height of the frame (cabinets) and subtract 2 cm. To determine the upper limit of the apron, add 65 cm to the sum of the heights of the base and frame. It turns out that the visible height of the apron is 60 cm from the table top to the wall cabinets. And another 3 cm will be at the bottom of the wall cabinets. We lay the tiles on all open surfaces where there are no cabinets, but add 5 cm to each side. For example, if the kitchen has a dome-type hood 90 cm wide, and the distance between the cabinets is the size of the hood, then the tiles must be laid out 1 meter wide. If the kitchen ends with a refrigerator or pencil case, then extend the apron 5 cm beyond it.Corner kitchen
If we are talking about a corner layout, then along one of the walls we will get a visible connection of the end of the cabinets to the wall. And the tile placed under them will create a visible gap (since the tile is thick). For a corner kitchen, I advise you to calculate the end of the kitchen by the cabinets - not by the countertop. That is, you should not place the apron under the top row. The second important nuance is to take into account the thickness of the tiles when laying them on another wall: it may happen that they annoyingly extend 1 cm beyond the boundaries of the set just because you did not take into account the thickness of the coating on the adjacent wall.
For a corner kitchen, the calculation is as follows: we find the upper limit (where the cabinets begin and the apron ends), count down 60 cm from it and add a margin of 5-10 cm. Tip: Think about symmetry and beauty of styling. For example, you can lay out the tiles symmetrically relative to the hood, sink, or other central element headset. Ideal when furniture and tiles come to door frame(as in the photo in this interior). The ends and cracks are not visible - the tiles can only be laid along the apron.
Linear kitchen by surprise
Option one: We don’t put tiles on the end wall at all. This option is acceptable if the sink is not located in one of the corners, and the wall covering without tiles will be resistant to washing (as in the photo above).Option two: We lay tiles on three walls.
We place the tiles beyond the boundaries of the lower cabinets and upper wall cabinets. But to what depth? It all depends on the tile format. If it is large in size, you can lay tiles from the bottom to the top of the kitchen along the depth of the lower cabinets. If it is medium, you can lay the apron at the depth of the lower cabinets, as in the example in this photo. If the tiles are small in size, you can make a smooth transition from the depth of the lower cabinets to the depth of the upper ones. But in this case, practicality is lost. If the end wall is small or is the side of a technical box, it can be completely tiled. And in order to save money, choose a companion tile to the main tile on the apron.When is it okay to break the rules?
If you are laying a backsplash with small-format tiles (for example, honeycomb), you can not put the tiles behind the upper cabinets, but “tear” them without trimming. It will turn out original uneven edge. By going into the work area without a sink or stove, you can reduce the number of rows of tiles, reduce them to nothing, or do a “stretch”, skipping more and more tiles, and finally reduce them to nothing.In order not to lose practicality, finish the gaps in the tiles with decorative plaster and cover them with a special protective compound. Tip: If the stove is located far enough from end wall(as in the photo), tiles can only be laid along the main wall, going behind the cabinets and hood. Important:Don't forget to put tiles behind the sink cabinet and behind the dishwasher and washing machines. To do this, you can take any budget tiles or scraps from tiles for the apron.
An apron is the covering of the part of the wall between the upper and lower cabinets. kitchen set. Its task is to protect the wall from moisture, hot steam, grease, splashes and any dirt. To make your choice easier, we compared the most practical and effective options for finishing the work area in five important criteria. Professional advice on what to make a kitchen apron from, comparison of the best materials and real photos beautiful aprons - in this article.
Correct sizes
- Usually kitchen apron height varies from 45 to 60 centimeters. How high it should be in your case depends on the height of the household, the type of stove and the type of furniture. For a short housewife, it is more convenient to hang the upper modules lower, leaving 40-55 cm between the table top and the bottom edge of the cabinets. The edges of the finishing material should extend a couple of centimeters under the lower/upper cabinets.
- As for width, most often decorative coating cover the entire wall along worktop- from edge to edge kitchen furniture. If you wish, you can limit yourself to small protective inserts only in the sink and hob area.
- In a kitchen with a gas stove, the distance between hob and the hood should be at least 75-80 cm. Provide for this protrusion in the kitchen design.
- The apron of a kitchen set without upper cabinets should be brought all the way to the ceiling.
Selecting color and design
- Decide in advance which apron is best to choose for the kitchen - a bright accent one or a neutral one, which will only serve as a backdrop for a beautiful set.
- White apron (plain or with mosaic inserts, bright tiles and ceramic decors) can be easily combined with a kitchen of any color. Other neutral tones are also popular: milky, creamy, beige, light gray, champagne and ivory.
- A dark, glossy finish is impractical: water droplets and grease splashes will be especially noticeable on it.
Photos of aprons for the kitchen: top 5 best materials
Ceramic tile
The best option in terms of price, quality, durability and convenience. Glazed wall tiles are more often used to decorate the apron, and thin and light porcelain tiles are less often used. The most popular formats are 10x10, 15x15, 20x30 and 20x40 cm, as well as a different-sized “hog”.
In the photo: example stylish apron made of 10x10 cm tiles with a patchwork pattern (Batik collection from Bayker) The tiles have many decors to suit different tastes and every budget. The surface of ceramics can imitate the texture of stone, wood, metal, and concrete.
When choosing kitchen tiles for your backsplash, take a closer look at their texture: rough and textured ones are difficult to keep clean, so you should give preference to glossy, smooth ones.
Price. Making a ceramic splashback will cost more than plastic, but much less than glass and acrylic stone. In addition to the cost of the material, do not forget to include in the calculation the costs of leveling mixture, glue, grout for joints, sealant and the work of craftsmen.
Installation . Installation should be left to a professional. The work area in a kitchen of any size is always the center of attention, and laying tiles flawlessly is not easy without experience. Important point: ceramics last a long time. If you don't like the design, it won't be easy to change it.
Durability. It will easily last you 15 years or more.
Moisture resistance. ★★★★★
Care . ★★★★★
We have collected modern design ideas and photographs of tiled kitchen backsplashes in real interiors in the selection below:
An original idea for an apron on the wall in the kitchen-living room with modern interior
Traditional kitchen design in Provence style 
Options bright kitchen with phototile apron 
Strained glass
When choosing a drawing or photo from the catalog for a glass kitchen apron, consider the color of the facades Handsome and practical material, which in many properties is not inferior to ceramics. A glass apron is easier to maintain than you might think, and heat and moisture do not damage it appearance.
In the kitchen they use durable tempered glass with a thickness of 6 and 8 mm with different designs: transparent, painted, tinted, matted and decorated with photo printing.
Price. This type of finish can hardly be called budget: glass panels with photo printing (skins) are noticeably more expensive than tiles and mosaics, not to mention plastic. In addition to the cost of manufacturing the apron, glass and the necessary fasteners, you will have to pay extra for the design (the photo from the catalog will probably need to be modified), color proofing, installation, cutting out holes for sockets and other services that are not obvious to the inexperienced buyer. Most inexpensive option- a transparent protective screen, the wall behind which can be painted or covered with beautiful wallpaper.
Installation . The main advantage of a glass apron is the speed of installation and the absence of “dirty” work - the whole process takes a couple of hours.
Durability. Contrary to the fears of many, such an apron can decorate your kitchen for a long time without losing its attractive appearance. Some companies provide a 5-year warranty. Of course we're talking about about a quality product with UV printing with good ink.
Moisture resistance. ★★★★★
Care . ★★★★
Fingerprints, water and grease marks are more noticeable on glass than on tiles. But a smooth panel without joints is much easier to clean than cleaning numerous seams. It is enough to regularly wipe it with a damp sponge and soapy water and use a glass care product from time to time.
By choosing a light glass apron for a small kitchen (as in the photo), you will visually expand the small space 
Plastic
The optimal choice for economy class headsets and temporary repairs, especially if you are going to do it yourself.
A good assortment of inexpensive plastic kitchen aprons is available in Leroy Merlin, OBI and other construction hypermarkets.
There are two finishing options:
- Furniture board made of MDF, chipboard and fibreboard, lined with decorative HPL plastic - plain or with decor like wood, ceramics, stone, mosaic.
- PVC wall panels. Flexible screens are attached to the wall using glue and an aluminum profile. In terms of practicality and durability, they are inferior to MDF and chipboard: they are thinner, lose color faster, and cannot be installed in kitchens with gas hob- deformed.
Price. The most budget option in our selection. A three-meter plastic panel in the same Leroy Merlin can be purchased for an average of 1.5-2.5 thousand rubles.
Installation. An important advantage of a plastic apron when renovating a kitchen is its simple installation, which even a beginner can handle. It is easy to make holes for sockets and rails directly during installation.
Durability. Of all the materials in our review, this type of apron has the shortest service life. Compared to other options, it will most quickly lose its “face” and is unlikely to last more than 3-5 years. But it is easy and inexpensive to replace.
Moisture resistance. ★★★
According to this indicator, it seriously loses to competing materials. But if you take a high-quality MDF apron and cover the joints with the tabletop with plinth, you don’t have to worry about problems.
Care . ★★★★
It is enough to wipe a plastic apron with a damp microfiber cloth or soft sponge. Make sure that water does not flood the edges, otherwise the base of the slab may warp and swell.
An apron for a kitchen made of MDF with photo printing is best complemented with neutral facades and a plain finish 
Wood-look laminate countertops and splashbacks can easily be combined with a white kitchen 
Mosaic
The contrasting finish of the mosaic splashback will make the kitchen design bright and modern: the “chameleon” material looks different depending on the lighting and perfectly brings the interior together.
Price. Compared to ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware, mosaic is a less profitable option for decorating a backsplash. Both installation work and necessary materials: You will have to buy special glue and grout. If you want to save money, choose mosaic tiles. It is cheaper and greatly simplifies installation.
Installation . Grouting numerous seams is a labor-intensive process: it requires experience, time and great care.
Durability. Will serve without any complaints long years. Normal service life quality material- 20-25 years.
Moisture resistance. ★★★★★
Care . ★★★★
See the photographs below for examples of real kitchen aprons made of mosaics (glass, ceramic, stone, metal):
Fake diamond
Most often, an apron made of artificial stone is combined with a countertop made of the same material.
Price. Perhaps the most expensive design option for a work area in our selection.
Installation . Needs work experienced craftsmen, but there will be no dirt during installation.
Durability. With careful handling acrylic stone will serve you for a very long time, but over time micro-scratches appear. To the credit of the material, it is easy to restore: sand out cracks and build up chips. After polishing it will be like new.
Moisture resistance. ★★★★★
Care . ★★★★★
You can learn more about this finishing material.
Corian figured wall panel 
A stone apron is often chosen for a classic kitchen MORE 7 PHOTOS CLOSE 
You liked the expensive finishing material, and new renovation do you plan to do more soon? Do not deny yourself the pleasure - you will admire a beautiful apron every day! Count the different options. Moreover, a typical kitchen requires very little finishing.
- About the site
- Categories
- Balcony Balcony and loggia repairs The homeowner's dreams of a warm, well-appointed balcony or loggia are possible. You just have to want it, having it required amount bills, and dreams will turn into reality. Combining a glazed, insulated balcony with a room and kitchen, turning the loggia into winter greenhouse or in a separate living space - all this can be done, and with your own hands. In this section of the site you will find step by step instructions on insulation and glazing, as well as installation and installation finishing balcony and loggia. They will help you carry out the work yourself or have it professionally assessed. renovation work, carried out by qualified builders.
- Bathroom Bathroom Renovation Taking hot bath you probably want to relax. Beautiful ceiling, luxurious walls and floors greatly contribute to this process. Few owners square meters» will refuse to use high-quality plumbing fixtures, earthenware plumbing products, household appliances and equipment. The publications collected in this section of the site will help you choose the household appliances, plumbing fixtures and finishing materials that are right for you. Even in a Khrushchev-era building, this room, the area of which does not exceed 2 square meters, with proper planning, can look great and meet functional requirements.
- Doors Entrance and interior doors - selection, installation, installation My home is my fortress. That's how I once described it English lawyer Eduard Kok feels safe in his home. But not a single outpost will be reliably protected without strong and sometimes even armored gates. A modern apartment, like a medieval citadel, needs protection in the form front door. We think that if you protect the entrance to your apartment with a modern door block, a feeling of security will settle in you forever. But that's not all. Members of a large family, who have their own personal space in the house, instinctively want to isolate themselves, at least for a while, even from their relatives. And here you can’t do without an interior door. This section of the site contains publications devoted to the selection and installation of entrance and interior doors.
- Kitchen Kitchen renovation The kitchen is undoubtedly the most popular room in a modern apartment. We cook in it, and often eat food, unless, of course, there is a dining room in the house. While preparing culinary masterpieces, the housewife spends almost all her free time in it. It is important that the necessary kitchen utensils, household items and equipment are at hand, and that the furniture is located so as not to hinder the movement of the cook. In this section of our website we will talk about finishing materials compatible with food and their application. Our step-by-step instructions will allow you to renovate your kitchen yourself or teach you how to supervise the work of a hired team of repairmen.
- Repair materials Selection of building materials and their description Materials for repairs is a capacious concept that implies thousands of names, hundreds of groups and dozens of categories of building materials. They help make wishes and dreams of comfortable, functional and convenient housing that meets all requirements come true. At the same time, the appearance and quality condition of the elements of your home directly depends on the building materials you choose. In order not to regret wasted money when low-quality finishing falls off or loses decorative properties, purchase only materials for repairs tested by professionals. Do right choice The publications collected in this section of the site will help you.
- Window Windows and balcony frames An important element of a modern apartment is the window. And the question of what it is made from plays an important role in ensuring comfortable living in this apartment. Indeed, in addition to protecting the room from atmospheric phenomena, the window protects from street noise, especially when the room faces a busy highway. This section contains materials about the manufacture, appearance and features of windows and balcony frames for your apartment or private house.
- Floor Repair and finishing of the floor An integral part of the interior of a living space is the floor. Trouble-free living of household members is associated with the condition of the floor base and flooring. Even the health of the apartment's inhabitants directly depends on whether the floor is warm or cold. This is especially true for small children who spend most of their time playing on the floor. Modern building materials require absolute evenness of the base on which installation is planned. This section of the site combines publications in which we describe and show the process of preparation, installation and installation of screed, “warm floors” and finishing.
- Ceiling Ceiling repair and finishing It is known that ceilings in modern apartments are not particularly smooth. The team of our site, drawing on vast experience, will suggest many ways to repair, level and finish them with finishing building materials. Tension - PVC and fabric, hanging - plasterboard, coffered, Armstrong and grillto, covered with wallpaper and painted. Each type of ceiling can become a real masterpiece. Step-by-step instructions, photographs and videos about the installation or installation of each type of ceiling are collected in this section of the site. Using these materials, you can easily do everything yourself or professionally supervise the craftsmen hired to carry out the work.
- Walls Construction, leveling and finishing of walls Having a roof over your head is, of course, great, but it wouldn’t hurt to rest it on strong walls that have been built to last. In the apartments of block and brick high-rise buildings, they are naturally strong, but curved, like a Janissary's saber. Therefore, before finishing, they need to be leveled, and at the same time soundproofed in order to isolate themselves from noisy and reckless neighbors. And walls bordering the atmospheric environment also require insulation. In this section of the site we have collected descriptions of building materials and step-by-step instructions on installation, installation and fastening of finishing, as well as sound, noise and even waterproofing of walls.
- Toilet and sewerage Repairing a toilet The age of the Internet and urbanization, super speed and stress leaves virtually no room for privacy and the opportunity to calmly reflect on the complexity of life. Household chores also do not conduce to special philosophical activity of the brain. However, throughout the day, even a super-busy person finds time for solitude and calm reflection. This time is dictated by nature itself and the place for it, no matter how funny it may be, is the toilet. This section of our website contains publications about the arrangement of a toilet, sewerage system, the choice of plumbing fixtures and its installation.
Ceramic tile
Ceramics. For several millennia, people have been using objects made from baked clay. With the development of civilization, this wonderful material also evolved. Today, ceramic tiles are durable, beautiful (with many options for colors, shapes and sizes), practical building material. It is possible to use it to create various panels or even ornaments.
Ceramic tiles laid on a kitchen backsplash will last a long time, pleasing your eyes, but unfortunately, there may be drawbacks. They can arise either through your fault or through the fault of an unscrupulous seller. The weak point of a kitchen apron made of ceramic tiles is the seams between the tiles.
If you were greedy or the seller slipped grout of the wrong quality, colonies of bacteria and fungal spores can form and successfully develop in them. And this, unfortunately, a big problem. Therefore, when choosing tiles, do not forget about careful selection of grout.
To treat the seams, you need to use a waterproof grout, which protects the seams from excess moisture, is easy to clean and does not allow fungus and mold to develop on its surface.
It is not complicated and can be performed even by a beginner in the construction and repair business. Unlike other ways to decorate a wall in the kitchen, ceramic tiles It is better to lay it before installing the kitchen furniture, due to the fairly large amount of dust and dirt from the installation process.
Fake diamond
The main advantage of artificial stone is the variety of shades and their combination. The panel of this material can be matte or glossy surface, with a homogeneous structure and interspersed - like in natural stone.
The fabric of the artificial stone panel does not have cracks and pores characteristic of other building materials, therefore it will not retain moisture and grease contamination inside it.
Also, a kitchen apron made of artificial stone does not deform from excessive humidity levels or elevated temperatures, which is important for the kitchen work area.
The material prevents the development of bacteria and fungal spores. It has no seams, even the connection with the tabletop will be microscopic.
Many people like it when the countertop and kitchen apron are made in one color scheme, and if you consider that you can also install a sink made of the same material into the countertop, the effect will become mind-blowing - as if the entire monolith is made of one, huge piece of stone.
The finish is easy to restore. If the surface is scratched (acrylic artificial stone is subject to minor mechanical damage), it can be sanded and the defects will not be visible.
This composite building material will suit any interior style, from classic to hi-tech.
As for the disadvantages, there is probably only one – very high cost.
Glass
A glass apron for the kitchen is made mainly from tempered, heat-resistant glass, with a thickness of at least 6 mm. Having received such specifications, the glass becomes 6-8 times stronger than usual, and withstands frequent temperature changes, which is typical for the working area behind the hob.
An image from the manufacturer's catalogs or your personal high-resolution photo is transferred onto the glass, the length of which can reach 3000 mm. As a result of a special technology, images applied to the inner surface of the glass do not lose color even under the influence of direct sun rays.
Hygienic and resistant to fats, alkalis and acids. A glass kitchen apron prevents the development of bacteria and fungal spores on the kitchen wall.
Installing an apron in the kitchen is easy. made using glue, frame or mechanical fastener.
Glass Wall panels They are a durable finishing material and are little susceptible to damage from mechanical influences.
A glass kitchen apron is very easy to clean. True, it is necessary to wash it more often, since any dirt on the glass is very noticeable.
MDF
Kitchen aprons made of MDF are created using Hot Coating technology. The polymer adhesive composition is melted to a viscous state, and then applied in a layer of a certain thickness to the surface of the MDF. A thermoplastic protective layer painted in the required shades is applied to the cooled surface.
The MDF kitchen apron is resistant to scratches, direct sunlight and moderate mechanical impact. The laminated surface withstands changes temperature regime and the impact of almost any means household chemicals.
As in the case of sheets thrown onto a kitchen apron made from other building materials, absolute evenness of the wall is not required. Installation can be done on adhesive compositions, frame structures or using mechanical fasteners.
Polyvinyl chloride
Plastic panels are made from polyvinyl chloride, then PVC. Boards or sheets of finishing building materials have a wide range of color shades, and if with PVC white everything is clear, then color drawings on products are applied in several ways:
- thermal film - a building material painted in this way becomes more durable and resistant to mechanical damage;
- laminate - this type of building material has a poor choice color palette in relation to other types, but at the same time it is the most durable, withstands mechanical loads quite steadfastly and is less susceptible to damage;
- direct printing of a design - a board painted in this way does not tolerate even minimal mechanical impact on its surface.
All types of coating can be either glossy or matte. Also, panels can have different dimensions.
- slatted panels - their appearance resembles “lining” made of wood;
- tile panels - this type of finishing building material has the same connection method as slatted panels, but in appearance it is even more reminiscent of ceramic tiles;
- sheet panels - sheets have dimensions - length up to 2440 mm, width up to 1220 mm, thickness up to 6 mm.
Most often, sheet panels are installed on a plastic PVC kitchen apron.
Metal
Modern hi-tech style requires modern materials for finishing the kitchen. A stainless steel apron goes perfectly with this style.
The clear advantages of metal skins are Fire safety and a long period of operation.
Kitchens stylized as antique furniture will certainly be more suitable for copper or brass panels.
Metal kitchen splashbacks can be solid, made as a single panel or assembled as separate tiles of various sizes.
By the way, in the latter case it is possible to combine tiles of different metals.
Not all household chemicals are suitable for caring for metal surfaces and this is perhaps the only drawback, apart from the very high cost.
Conclusion
What to make a kitchen apron from? We think we have fully answered this question. Now it all depends on your preferences, the design of the kitchen unit and the interior of the room as a whole. Good luck in your endeavors.
When questions arise about what is best to make an apron on the wall in the kitchen, you should first of all pay attention to the materials used. They differ in cost, shade, dimensions. At the same time, there are a number of other parameters, but the main ones are such characteristics as wear resistance and strength. When choosing an option, take into account the quality of the wall surface. The rougher it is, the better the adhesion to the adhesive will be. This is taken into account when choosing tiles, MDF plastic panels, stone (natural, artificial). 
Similar articles:
Why do you need a kitchen apron?
This interior element performs 2 main functions:
| Decorative. | A kitchen apron will decorate any room. It is made from attractive materials, which additionally allow you to hide defects in the rough wall. Thanks to the creation of accents, the interior acquires originality, brightness, and completeness. The finishing of the work area in the kitchen is carried out in different variations: pattern, photograph, drawing, relief surface of the coating. The choice is made taking into account the color scheme and style direction of the interior. |
| Protective. | To eliminate the possibility of moisture affecting the rough surface load-bearing wall, near which a work area is often set up, you can make an apron for the kitchen. In this case, water has an effect on materials such as concrete and brick. Negative influence, and ceramics, natural stone or plastic are characterized by moisture resistance. For this reason, the walls near the sink and stove are tiled. In addition, the apron withstands exposure well chemical substances(detergents). Application of this element interior design helps to increase the service life of the load-bearing wall. |
Requirements for kitchen aprons in terms of combining functionality and beauty
Choose a material that is suitable in properties and appearance for the room. For example, it is not advisable to use wallpaper for this purpose, because... they do not last long and do a poor job of their main task. If you are deciding what is best to make an apron from in the kitchen, you should pay attention to whether the selected material meets the requirements for a piece of furniture of this type:
- Resistant to moisture. If you install an apron made of hygroscopic material on the wall, it will not last long. The appearance of the finishing of the work area is largely determined by such properties as moisture resistance.
- The material from which the apron is made must withstand high temperatures. This is due to the fact that the coating is located in close proximity to the slab, the source hot water, which means it will come into contact with steam. The apron must be able to withstand not only high temperatures, but also sudden changes in the value of this parameter, which leads to the appearance of condensation.
- Easy to care for. It is not necessary to use materials with a smooth surface. Limescale, grease, and water droplets are easily removed from them. However, this section of the wall gets dirty quite quickly. If you are deciding which one is best to make an apron, you should pay attention to materials characterized by a fine-porous structure. Dirt lingers less intensively on such surfaces.
- Resistance to mechanical loads. A durable apron lasts much longer.
- Attractive design. With the help of this interior element you can decorate a room and influence its visual perception.
Features and Benefits
Apron sizes may vary:
- a large interior element occupies a section of the wall from the hood level to the floor;
- a standard apron is characterized by a height of 55-75 cm.
The second option is more common, because In this case, the material is consumed more economically. If the kitchen cabinets are located at some distance from each other, it is recommended to make an apron from the hood to the floor. The choice of material is determined by the requirements for it, personal preferences and financial capabilities.
Often, ordinary ceramic tiles are used for this purpose. More expensive analogues are natural/artificial stone, mosaic, glass. Wood-containing materials are used less frequently. From this group, MDF is most often used. Economy class materials include plastic panels. If the user is limited in funds, or there is a desire to create an original apron, any available options, for example, a canvas made of wine corks, which you can make yourself from scrap materials.
When choosing an apron for the kitchen, you should decide the feasibility of finishing the work area and take into account positive traits of this interior element:
- low material consumption - you don’t have to cover the entire wall, but only part of it;
- protection of the partition, which is more susceptible to aggressive factors than other surfaces;
- improvement of interior design;
- multi-variant execution;
- provided that you choose the right apron for the kitchen, you can count on a long period of its use;
- relatively simple installation;
- ease of care.
Selecting color and finishing design
There are such solutions:
- By finishing the work area, they create a background for the kitchen set. Here the color of the apron should match the shade of the furniture. Walls are often finished in light colors and front panels in darker colors. There is also the opposite option: the apron is a dark shade, and the set is light.
- Focus on the apron. In this case, the finishing of the work area is distinguished by color and contrasts with the coatings of other interior elements. The wall is decorated with a bright pattern and photograph.
- Original design. You can make an apron in the kitchen with your own hands using available materials. The unusual design of the work area attracts attention, decorates the room, and makes the interior unique.
If you use a neutral color scheme (beige, white tone), such an apron is suitable for a kitchen in any style. Finishing with black material is done if the room already has design elements of the same design. To visually enlarge the space, the design of a small kitchen and work area is done in light colors.
What types of kitchen aprons are there?
The section of wall near the stove/sink is finished in different options, excellent in design, color and material. The last parameter is the most important, because the type of coating determines the properties of the apron. Today it is possible to finish the kitchen with laminate panels, and you can do it yourself. There are options made of glass, tiles, plastic, porcelain stoneware, stone, and use sheets of polycarbonate and plywood. If wood-containing materials are used, they must be moisture resistant. The second most important parameter is mechanical strength.
Plastic
Panels of this type are resistant to exposure to water. They can withstand moderate mechanical loads. However, intense pressure on thin plastic is destructive - the product cracks and cannot be restored. The advantages of this material include low cost. In addition, a do-it-yourself plastic kitchen apron is relatively easy to install. It can be glued to liquid nails or other adhesive suitable for the type of material.
In addition, plastic panels hide surface imperfections well. They can be installed even on a curved wall. This possibility is due to the flexibility of the material. However, he is not attractive. The panels lose color in the sun and are exposed to high temperatures, so it is not recommended to install them near the stove.
Budget from MDF
If you are deciding how to make an apron from MDF, you should take into account the positive qualities of this material:
- low price;
- attractive appearance;
- wide range of options;
- simple installation;
- it is possible to replace the coating section;
- environmental friendliness.
Wherein MDF boards are not resistant to high temperatures. Although slightly, they are still susceptible to moisture. Service life of the material under conditions high humidity will not last long.
But in this case there is no need to purchase special glue for installation. If you are deciding how to install an MDF apron in the kitchen, you should know that to do this, it is enough to fix the panels on the wall using self-tapping screws/dowels.
From ceramic tiles
The material is durable, non-hygroscopic, and can withstand exposure to ultraviolet radiation and moderate mechanical loads. Due to these properties, tiles are often used for finishing aprons. Flaw this option– the need for careful alignment of the wall. When installing the tiles, surface imperfections will be visible.
In addition, you need to choose an adhesive mixture. If you are deciding how to lay tiles correctly, you should pay attention to universal compositions. To finish the work area, you can use glue that can withstand high temperatures, because... the apron will be in close proximity to the hob.
From mosaic tiles
This material is presented different types, which differ in installation method and dimensions. There are small tiles. If you plan to make a mosaic kitchen apron with your own hands, you need to take into account that the process of installing small-sized products will take a lot of time.
An alternative option is laying tiles standard sizes with mosaic finishing. Such products are installed quickly, and it is difficult to notice the difference in appearance. The material has similar properties to tiles, but requires more careful maintenance. This is due to the presence of a large number of grooves (seam joints) between the mosaics. The main advantage of tiles is the ability to create any pattern or design.
- increased strength;
- moisture resistance;
- easy care;
- long period of operation;
- attractive appearance, similar to granite.
The porcelain tile apron is attached using glue. The installation technology is practically no different from the principle of installing tiles. This material is offered at a lower cost than its natural counterpart. However, in appearance these finishing options are not much different.
From glass
Panels made of this material are called skinals. Plain or tempered glass can be used. The second option is preferable, but it costs more. Installing a glass apron made of tempered material will allow you to get reliable coverage resistant to high temperatures. Panels of this type are not afraid of aggressive agents or damage.
Plain glass is cheaper, but does not last long, because... exposed to mechanical stress. The main disadvantage of this type of panels is the need for frequent maintenance. It is not easy to install a glass apron for the kitchen with your own hands, because... It is necessary to make holes for fasteners. The advantages include an attractive appearance, which is due to the possibility of inserting a bright photograph or drawing between the glass panels.
Made from artificial stone
Porcelain stoneware is included in this group of materials. This also includes acrylic stone. The last option has a sufficient level of strength and moisture resistance. This type of material is not exposed to high temperatures, ultraviolet radiation, and is characterized by a long service life. If you are deciding how to lay out an artificial stone apron, you should know that with its help you can get a seamless coating. In addition, there are a large number of finishing options of this type, different in color and texture.
Made from natural stone
This is the most expensive option, so it is not used as often as its analogues. This group includes granite and marble. In terms of properties, natural stone corresponds to porcelain stoneware. Panels of this type differ in shade. Today we offer a wide range of products in black, pink, red, yellow, blue, grey, brown and white. The disadvantages include the complexity of installation. The apron made of natural stone is attached using a special glue.
DIY installation
First of all, you need to remove the old coating. Then the surface is leveled. If necessary, the wall is re-plastered. If the surface is not smooth enough and there are obvious defects, they are eliminated by filling with putty. Then the wall is treated with a primer. At the next stage, the actions may differ, it all depends on the type of material used:
- a mounting grid is attached or notches are prepared on the wall, which will allow the tile to be securely fastened;
- holes are made in the wall for dowels.
Installing an apron in the kitchen requires the use of a building level; with its help, the quality of the coating is checked. Holes for sockets in the kitchen apron are made before installing the finishing material. If you plan to backlight, the wall is chipped at the stage of preparing the rough surface.
What do you do with old furniture?
