Glass splashbacks are a great choice for any home, as they're very durable and work with a wide variety of decors without clashing or competing with the colours and materials of a home's cabinetry, benchtops and flooring. Glass splashbacks can make an otherwise dark kitchen seem brighter, as they reflect whatever light source there is in the space rather than absorbing it. If you're thinking of glass splashbacks for your kitchen, note a few simple but important questions you might have about the material and its installation, so you know what to discuss with a contractor and know if this is the right choice for your home:
Can they be cut?
Glass splashbacks are typically made from thick, tempered glass, meaning glass that is produced in such a way that it's very dense and durable. This keeps the glass from shattering if you were to accidentally smack the splashback with something, or if it were exposed to high flames and heat. However, this thick, tempered glass also typically cannot be cut with household tools; it may even need to be laser-cut in a shop when it's manufactured. Don't think you can trim down or cut a glass splashback on your own; when ordering, be sure you take proper measurements or leave this part of the job to your contractor so you know you get a properly sized piece delivered and installed.
Are they coloured or clear?
Glass splashbacks can be either coloured or clear; if you opt for a coloured splashback, this can mean a truer and brighter colour that is easy to match to your bench tops and cabinets. However, a clear splashback can show off artwork or a fancy paint job on the wall behind it and may be removed by a contractor so you can repaint that wall and change up the look of your kitchen somewhat easily.
What does it mean to be compliant?
The splashback materials in your kitchen typically need to be waterproof and fire resistant, to protect your home from the risk of fire, water leaks and resultant mould, and other such damage. Some materials that are not specifically designed for splashbacks, such as certain types of wood, may not be compliant with those local building codes. Even certain glass may not be compliant if it's not tempered or meant for use as a splashback. Only purchase glass splashback materials that are said to be compliant with those codes, to protect your home and avoid any fines from city inspectors.
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