And the gas stove must be covered with a practical screen that is resistant to moisture and high temperatures. The appearance of this area is also not in last place, namely the wall above work area often used to place accents in the kitchen interior. If you plan to install the apron yourself, then the complexity and duration of installation plays a big role. To do right choice, you need to choose an option with the optimal balance of all these qualities.
The wall surface above the countertop is the busiest area of the kitchen. Here are located Appliances, work area and gas stove. Not every type of finish can adequately withstand all types of impacts associated with using the kitchen for its intended purpose. Therefore, a number of requirements are imposed on a kitchen apron:
- High temperature resistance. Since the screen surface is heated unevenly, the material should not expand significantly. Flammability and low melting point are also not the best qualities for an apron;
- Moisture resistance. The impact of liquids on a surface can manifest itself in different ways: direct contact, splashes, steam. Therefore, the apron must be chosen from materials that do not absorb water;
- Easy to clean. The surface of the screen in the kitchen is exposed to various types of contamination: dust, grease, food particles. It is important that the material does not change its appearance, even after prolonged contact with dirt;
- Mechanical strength. Since the surface of the apron will have to be cleaned frequently, and sometimes intensively, the coating must be resistant to abrasive substances and hard brushes. Microscratches and areas of worn-out paint will definitely not decorate the kitchen;
- Safety. Environmental cleanliness and the absence of harmful fumes are one of the most important qualities kitchen apron, because it can come into contact with food.
There are many materials on the market that fully or partially meet these requirements. However, this is a difficult choice that requires taking into account all the installation features, advantages and disadvantages of different types of aprons.
Types of materials for an apron
It is better to decide on the choice of material for the protective screen in the kitchen before installing the set, since some types of finishes are mounted on a free wall.
Aprons made from solid or large fragments can be fixed after furniture is placed, if they do not require “wet” types of work.
Before installing any apron, it is necessary to prepare the wall surface, check its integrity and reliability. It would not be superfluous to treat with priming compounds with an antiseptic to protect against moisture and its inevitable companions - fungus and mold. It is important to install electrical wiring in advance and make outlets for sockets.
When the wall plane is prepared, you can measure the area for the apron and begin choosing the most suitable materials. To do this, you can compare their advantages and disadvantages, and also evaluate possible difficulties during installation.
Tile
The classic version of the apron cladding is tiles different shapes, size and design. It is practical and accessible. Combinations different shades and tile designs allow you to create unique and beautiful protective screens for the kitchen. 
Features of the material
Tile is a win-win option for decorating an apron. It will always be in fashion and will ensure comfortable and safe use of the kitchen. The popularity of tiles is due to a number of advantages that distinguish them from other types of materials:
- Resistant to mechanical stress. Minor blows will not harm it, and the glaze that covers the front surface withstands intensive cleaning;
- Does not absorb moisture. It is not without reason that it is used for installation in the wettest places of the house in the bathroom and toilet. In the kitchen, it will perform the function of protecting the wall from splashes and steam flawlessly;
- Easily tolerates uneven heating. The expansion is compensated by the presence of a small distance between the individual finishing elements. But it is important to choose a good adhesive base and grout;
- Durable. The service life of a tile apron is subject to high-quality styling and glue - at least 15 - 20 years;
- Safe. The material is environmentally friendly and non-flammable.
Among the disadvantages of tiles, the most significant is the seams, which are difficult to clean from dirt, and prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the appearance of mold and mildew. But if you don’t skimp and choose high-quality grout, these inconveniences can be avoided.
Installation of a tile apron
In order for the tile to adhere well to the wall surface, it is necessary to provide all conditions for high-quality adhesion. Check the plaster for voids and weak spots. Prime and make notches if the base is covered with a layer of paint that cannot be removed.
To lay tiles with your own hands you will need special tools and materials:
- Glue;
- Notched spatula;
- Crosses for seams;
- Grout;
- Tile cutter
Installation can be done different ways. The simplest is horizontal or vertical, it is best to choose for self-installation, if there are no professional skills. More complex types will require the hands of a specialist: herringbone, offset, diagonal. 
Laying must be done before installation kitchen set. And since the first row of tiles will start not from the floor, but from the middle of the wall, it is necessary to temporarily install a guide rail.
The ideal option is if the size of the tile is selected exactly to the size of the apron, then it will not have to be cut. But if there are sockets on the wall plane, you will need to work with a tile cutter. A guide to using this tool is provided in the video.
By changing the thickness of the adhesive composition, you can correct small unevenness of the wall, but not more than 10 mm. A layer exceeding this value is unacceptable for wall cladding. The tile may “float” or fall off due to uneven drying of the adhesive.
It is necessary to insert crosses into the space between the individual fragments, and do not remove them until the composition has set. Grouting of joints is carried out only after complete drying.
Mosaic
A mosaic apron will become bright accent throughout the kitchen. A variety of styling options and materials for elements can provide harmony with the design and individuality. But working with this type of finishing requires patience, skills and the selection of high-quality glue and grouting composition. 
Features of the material
Mosaic has all the advantages of tiles; it is not afraid of moisture and dirt, is resistant to temperature and mechanical damage, and has a number of features:
- It is easier to install around ledges and rosettes;
- To work with mosaics, white glue is required;
- It features a wider selection of materials for the production of elements: ceramics, glass, stone, metal, mirror.
The disadvantage of mosaic is the same as that of tiles - the seams, which in this case a lot more. Only epoxy grout is suitable for sealing them.
Mosaic installation
You can arrange elements in different ways. Designers play with color and shades, creating real works of art that are sure to be unique.
Types of mosaic installation:
For installation you will need the same set of tools as for tiles. The glue is applied to the wall and to the mosaic panel. The fragment is placed on the apron and pressed slightly. If there is a protective paper layer on the tile, it must be moistened a few minutes after fixing the fragments to the wall and carefully removed.
48 hours after installing all the elements, you can start grouting. The raster is applied with a rubber spatula and distributed evenly over the surface. After 20 minutes, you can remove excess grout with a soft cloth.
Glass
Kitchen aprons are made from tempered glass. It is stronger than usual and can withstand high temperatures. On such a screen you can place any image, drawing or imitating texture. 
Features of the material
A glass apron is a practical and safe option. Contaminants are easily removed from its surface. Tempered glass or triplex (two glasses glued together with a film) are resistant to mechanical stress. If the screen does break, then in the first case it breaks up into small fragments with non-sharp edges, in the second case the fragments are held on the film.
To install the apron, a glass panel is made to the exact dimensions of the area, so all that remains is to fix it. Seams are most often missing.
The image can be applied in different ways, they differ in cost, complexity and practicality.
- Pasting with photo wallpapers clear glass– inexpensive and fast, but if moisture gets under the glass, the image will be damaged;
- Printing on vinyl film – more reliable option, the film is not afraid of moisture, but over time it can peel off from the glass;
- Ultraviolet printing on glass – durable and high-quality image, resistant to any type of external influence;
- UV printing inside triplex is the most reliable and expensive option; the image is protected on both sides.
There are practically no disadvantages to this type of apron. It's beautiful and functional solution. In production, the necessary holes can be made in the glass for kitchen utensils and sockets. The only thing stopping you from choosing this material is its high cost. The service life of the product depends on the quality of the printed image. Clean frosted glass or printing inside triplex can last indefinitely.
Installation of a glass apron
Installation of a glass apron is carried out after installation of the kitchen unit. Therefore, when measuring the length and width of a section, greater accuracy is required. Fixation can be done in different ways:
- Through holes (the most reliable fastening option, this is what professionals use, but when fixing with bolts it is important to be extremely careful so as not to break the panel; you can purchase decorative caps to disguise the fasteners);
- Canopies (do not require drilling the glass surface, suitable for small aprons);
- Liquid nails (the easiest way to install it yourself, but the wall surface must be perfectly flat).
It is better to seal the joint between the apron and the wall with sealant so that moisture does not get into it. All holes in the panel must be made at the manufacturing stage. You cannot drill the screen yourself.
MDF (medium density fibreboard)
A compromise option for designing a kitchen apron is MDF. The plates are affordable and attractive in appearance. But their use is limited, so before choosing this material you should compare its advantages and disadvantages. 
Features of the material
MDF is widely used in home decoration and furniture assembly. It is also suitable for the kitchen. Its installation does not require perfect alignment of the wall surface.
The possibilities of the material are unlimited: it can have any shade and texture, imitate other types of finishes, such as stone and tile, and any image can be applied to the surface using the photo printing technique.
Installation is simple and quick. The service life of the material is only a few years, but given the low cost, such an apron can be changed frequently, which will not only get rid of the damaged screen, but also update the familiar kitchen.
MDF splashbacks are not suitable for kitchens that are used intensively. This option is appropriate for busy people who rarely cook and keep the room perfectly clean..
The material has some disadvantages:
- Does not withstand high temperatures;
- Frequent direct contact with water leads to deformation and peeling of the protective coating;
- Abrasives and solvents are not suitable for cleaning MDF;
- The screen surface is less durable than glass and tile.
Despite the presence of all these disadvantages, the material is often used for kitchen aprons. It looks beautiful and expensive, while the cost of MDF is much lower than other types of finishes.
MDF installation
Perhaps there is nothing easier than installing an MDF apron. Its dimensions can be adjusted on the spot, but the places where the cuts will need to be trimmed. It is easy to cut holes for sockets with a jigsaw and drill the plate to place the hooks.
Installation involves fixing the panel with self-tapping screws or liquid nails to the plane of the wall. If the main surface is uneven, you can first place slats on it and create an ideal plane with them.
PVC panels
Most a budget option design of a kitchen apron - covering with PVC panels. They are offered on the market in large quantities and have a wide selection of colors and designs. 
Features of the material
The panels don't have many advantages. If we compare them with a material from the same price category - MDF, then the plastic has excellent moisture resistance, but also particle board does not tolerate high temperatures and cleaning with abrasives.
In addition to deformation when heated, plastic is highly flammable and releases toxic substances when melted, so it has no place over a gas stove. It is good for work areas where there is frequent cooking, since contact with water and dirt does not affect its appearance. The service life is also short - a maximum of 5 - 7 years with proper care.
Panel installation
For installation you will need: guide elements (sheathing), self-tapping screws, screwdriver, utility knife. The panels are fastened together using a tongue-and-groove system, thus forming absolutely airtight connections.
The panels can be installed on any wall with unevenness and defects, the main thing is that there is somewhere to screw in the screws for the guides.
The sheathing is set according to the level. At the top and bottom there are guide elements, then vertical crossbars with a pitch of no more than 60 cm.
The panels are fixed with self-tapping screws to the sheathing, each subsequent one covers the place where the previous one was fixed and the head of the fasteners. Therefore, externally the apron looks quite presentable. You can cut plastic with a utility knife or a fine-tooth hacksaw. All holes must be prepared before installation. The edges of the finished apron in height and width, if they are visible, must be decorated with decorative elements; they are sold in the same department where the panels themselves are.
Stone
Natural and artificial stone is one of the best materials for a kitchen apron in terms of practicality. He has everything necessary qualities. It is durable and looks expensive and prestigious. 
Features of the material
Such an apron requires appropriate design of the kitchen. Expensive countertops and exquisite facades will make him worthy company. Different types of stone are used to produce screens. Most often - granite, less often - marble, basalt, slate, quartz. It is best if the surface is polished; it is easier to remove dirt from it.
Artificial stone is much cheaper than natural stone, but has the same properties. But it has no pores, so it does not absorb moisture and is better cleaned of dirt. It is lighter and can be made thinner. The durability of these materials cannot be compared with any others.
Installation of a stone apron
Stone products are most often made to order according to custom sizes. Installation must be done after installing the furniture.
If the stone is in the form of a tile, then you can lay it with your own hands, according to the same pattern as ceramic. It is better to entrust the installation of a solid panel to professionals, since the material is expensive, and if you install it yourself without the necessary skills, you can damage the product.
Installation of an apron made of solid panels - stone, MDF, PVC and glass is carried out after installing the kitchen unit, so there will be no problems with taking measurements and the height of the screen placement. It is more difficult to determine the location of the apron, which is installed before installing the headset; here it is important to take into account the height base cabinets, And flooring and furniture layout. How to do this correctly is shown in the video.
When choosing an apron for the kitchen, what is more important is not its appearance, but the price category and practicality. And the problem of aesthetics has long been solved by manufacturers - all types of materials are presented in various colors and design options.
Today we’ll talk about the most popular materials for decorating a work area, compare them and find out which material is best suited for decorating a kitchen apron.
You will learn the pros and cons of each coating, see examples of ready-made interior solutions made from conventional materials and aprons created with your own hands from non-traditional elements. Yaroslav Belyavsky, the owner of a repair company, a former tiler with 20 years of experience in this profile, kindly agreed to help us decide.
Budget options
Kitchen apron made of PVC panels
PVC panels are now very popular because they are inexpensive, and in appearance they are indistinguishable from real tempered glass. But they look like this for only a short time...
The surface quickly becomes dull, is afraid of abrasives, and as a result quickly scratches, acquiring a very shabby appearance.
Besides, plastic panels made of PVC are afraid of high temperatures, which means that it is completely undesirable to place them near the hob.
In a word, the option is cheap, but very bad and in the end it will cost you more than something more decent.
Kitchen apron made of wooden lining
The option is very cozy, inexpensive and looks just great. Such aprons look especially good in kitchens decorated in any of the country styles, for example, the same “Provence”.
Almost anyone can make such a coating and there is no need to involve professionals.
average price
Kitchen apron made of ceramic tiles
Tiles have always been, are and will be the best option both in terms of practicality and price.
We placed it in the middle price category, but as you understand, it can be different: very cheap and incredibly expensive. But in general, people more often choose average prices.
There is no point in talking about the advantages of a ceramic tile backsplash; everyone already knows this. The only downside that can be noted is that not everyone can install it themselves, and this doubles the price of the apron.
Kitchen apron made of finishing bricks
Finishing with real brick became popular at a time when kitchen designs in the “loft” and “grunge” styles came into fashion, suggesting the presence of unplastered walls or other deliberate carelessness of finishing.
A brick apron looks quite nice, but don’t forget that washing it is completely unpleasant! Grease and dirt eat into the structure, are absorbed, and scrubbing it off is long and tedious.
But, if such a prospect does not bother you, why not? As a last resort, when you get tired of washing it, you can cover the wall with tempered glass.
And one more thing: you don’t need to use solid brick for these purposes. A fairly narrow one, which is used specifically for external cladding of houses.
Stainless steel kitchen apron
Stainless steel is still an unusual option in the design of a kitchen work area. But if you have a room interior in modern style, we highly recommend paying attention to it. There are simply a lot of advantages here, but there are no disadvantages.
The cost of such an apron will be quite inexpensive, it looks stylish, caring for it is simply elementary, and there is no question of durability!
Some people are simply embarrassed by such a strict appearance and the “coldness” of the metal. But if you look at the photo in the interior, it becomes clear that a stainless steel apron is appropriate in almost any kitchen, not only in the high-tech style, for example.
The only thing you need to consider when purchasing: do not take too thin sheets, they will not hold their shape and an unpleasant rumble may be heard when touched.
Also, you should not take surfaces that are too mirrored, as glare from the sun and lighting will be very annoying.
In addition to smooth sheets, there are also corrugated, matte, and embossed sheets on sale. All in all, a good option and affordable, while looking extremely modern and expensive.
Acrylic kitchen apron artificial stone
This apron is very similar to natural stone, its price is very affordable and for those who at all costs want to decorate their work wall in the form of rock, this will be a good choice.
No photo printing can guarantee such naturalness. But, when deciding on such a purchase, do not forget about the obvious disadvantages of acrylic artificial stone:
- He is very afraid of scratches
- He is afraid of hot things (he won’t melt from a nearby stove, of course, but if a spark hits him, it will leave a mark)
- He is afraid of aggressive chemicals, the use of which leaves whitish spots on him
But, with all this, acrylic stone slabs have one big advantage: they can be restored! True, if you treat the apron carelessly, then you will have to repair and patch it often, and this is not so cheap.
Expensive materials
Mosaic kitchen apron
A great option, but definitely expensive. No problems were found in operation; such aprons last so long that they become boring.
The only disadvantage we can highlight is that wiping greasy drops from thin crevices is not always convenient, therefore, it is advisable not to let the dirt become firmly embedded.
If you are interested in this design, you can read about it in more detail in, which lists all the pros and cons, and also provides many photos of the interior.
Marble kitchen apron
It is not so often that you can find a kitchen where such aprons are present, since this is an elite and very expensive type of covering. If you take a marble mosaic, it will be a little cheaper than a solid slab, but it will be more difficult to care for.
And despite their high cost, marble backsplashes have a big drawback: dirt and grease are absorbed over time and are not very easy to care for.
Otherwise, the coating is unpretentious, is not afraid of scratches, and is not afraid of aggressive chemicals. But in fairness, many other coatings have the same characteristics and are easier to care for.
A marble apron has the right to exist only if you need to emphasize the status of your home.
Kitchen apron made of natural stone
The stone can be anything: from pebbles collected with your own hands on the shore to an unreal expensive slabs from onyx.
Here the choice is yours. About the characteristics of any stone, only one thing can be said: it behaves in much the same way as marble, that is, dirt and grease tend to be absorbed.
To avoid some of these problems, you need to choose slabs that have a durable, glossy finish, since any natural stone has a porous structure.
Be sure to ask the seller how the slabs were polished and what additives were used to protect them from moisture.
Kitchen apron made of quartz agglomerate
The material is relatively new on the kitchen apron market, although it has long been successfully used for the manufacture of countertops. Agglomerate is not an artificial stone, such as acrylic.
This is quartz chips that, through pressing, vibration and the addition of a small percentage of binding resins, have been turned into a monolithic slab.
The stone turns out to be extremely durable, devoid of any porosity and moisture inherent in natural solids.
Caring for it is very simple, the agglomerate is not afraid of any mechanical damage and reacts negatively only to the strongest acids (as they corrode the binding resins). Just a timeless apron that will last you and your grandchildren a lifetime.
It has a lot of colors and this stone looks natural. It is absolutely impossible to distinguish it from natural. A good choice, in a word. We recommend it with confidence!
Glass kitchen apron
Heat-resistant glass is not cheap, but it looks very stylish. With its help, you can bring any fantasy to life and display any image: from a mirror image to your own self-portrait.
As for operation, the material is good and does not cause any complaints in any respect. It is durable and easy to care for.
Unusual DIY aprons
Kitchen apron made of pebbles
If you live by the sea, then this option will be budget-friendly for you, and at the same time extremely original! You just need to drive to the shore and bring pebbles. And then attach it to the wall, covered with a small layer of tile mortar.
What about caring for such a surface, it cannot be called the simplest due to the fact that the surface is not smooth. And one more thing: if you have not secured the pebbles well, they will fall out the moment you rub the apron with a rag.
But this working wall looks just great! Look here please:
Kitchen apron made from fragments
Almost a hippie style option. Naturally, it is very budget-friendly. But there is one “but”: if you have poor taste, then you should not take on such work, as the result will be disastrous and sloppy.
To harmoniously select shards, you need to have an understanding of color and feel the compatibility of textures. But if you succeed, the guests will be delighted, 100%!
The assembly process itself is simple: the fragments are attached to some kind of base, such as cement mortar or gypsum plaster. The latter option is more preferable, since it is light, so bright glasses will look more contrasting and fresh on it.
Kitchen apron made from wine corks
The appearance of this coating is very interesting. But, cork is cork: the material is porous and very soft.
Therefore, if you want such a work wall, you will have to cover it on top with transparent plastic, otherwise, in just a couple of months, the apron will begin to look untidy and it will simply be impossible to wash it.
Kitchen apron with slate paint
Very very interesting solution in terms of design. In addition, a piece of board above the desktop is practical: you can write something down at any time without being distracted from cooking. You can also leave notes for your family if you urgently need to remind them of something!
Making such an apron is very simple: take a smooth piece of plywood, cut a strip out of it the right size, secure it above the tabletop and paint with special slate paint in 3-4 layers.
This paint is not cheap, but you can save money: cover the first two layers regular paint, and the upper ones – slate.
Look how cozy and original these aprons look in the interior.
Well, our review has come to an end, and we figured out which apron for the kitchen is better. We wish you a successful completion of the renovation!
A kitchen apron is a special covering located near the work area and provides protection to the wall. However, the apron in the kitchen interior is not only a functional surface, but also an important element of the interior decor of the kitchen space.
Of course, moisture and grease accumulate on the wall along the workplace from regular cooking.
Accordingly, this zone should be made of materials that are as resistant to moisture, grease, chemicals and elevated temperatures as possible. At the same time, the apron should fit organically into the kitchen interior and be easy to clean.
Therefore, when renovating a kitchen, the question often arises: which apron to choose for the kitchen? What finishing materials are best to use?
Classic option - tiles
Kitchen backsplash tiles are the most popular material. This is due to the fact that the tile has the following properties:
- Increased resistance to household chemicals;
- No difficulties in care;
- Increased density, due to which fat is repelled;
- Increased resistance to temperature changes and moisture resistance.
Its attractive appearance and large assortment of types, among which there are not only matte and glossy options, but also smooth, embossed surfaces of a wide variety of colors, shapes, patterns and sizes, make this material one of the most popular.
A ceramic apron for the kitchen is practical and beautiful. With the help of tiles you can make any kitchen interior fashionable and stylish.
Moreover, every year manufacturers release a huge number of new collections, not only in different colors, patterns and shapes, but also in textures. With the help of modern ceramic tiles you can create an original kitchen design.
Mosaic
The design that uses mosaic tiles for the kitchen on the apron looks elegant and luxurious.
A wide variety of materials are used to decorate the kitchen apron, including ceramics, pieces of glass, smalt and metal plates.
However, creating a mosaic panel in the kitchen work area is not an easy task and, most often, only a specialist can do it.
At the same time, ready-made mosaic sets have recently appeared on the market, which include a special mesh; using the mesh you can make original apron mosaic type yourself.
A natural stone
A huge variety of solutions for finishing the kitchen apron in the photo presented in the catalog allows you to implement any designer’s idea, but natural stone stands out among them. However, to create an organic design, it is necessary that the countertop is also made of stone.
When deciding how to decorate a kitchen backsplash made of natural stone, first of all, you need to decide what kind of stone is needed for finishing.
Thus, granite is distinguished by its hardness and density, as well as a huge number of shades, from the most popular pink-gray to the rare blue. This material is characterized by increased strength, resistance to low temperatures and moisture resistance.
Another material that is widely used in finishing kitchen work areas is marble. This stone has a porous structure and a large number of microcracks. From a practicality point of view, not the best best material However, its beautiful appearance makes it in demand.
When finishing aprons, you can rarely find a material such as basalt, because it is less attractive and heavy. However, it has excellent performance characteristics.
Tree
Recently, eco-friendly materials such as natural wood. When finishing aprons, the following types of wood materials are usually used:
MDF. Has increased resistance to microorganisms and fungi, is not susceptible to mechanical impact and moisture resistant.
Laminate. Easy to install, visually attractive, but not moisture resistant.
Array. Its main advantage is that it can be used to create a luxurious design, however, this material is susceptible to high temperatures, is susceptible to contamination and has low moisture resistance; this design solution can be seen in the photo of the kitchen apron in the catalog.
Glass apron
An apron made of tempered glass, which has increased impact resistance, fire resistance, resistance to mechanical and chemical influences, will look elegant and sophisticated in the kitchen; in addition, it will not be difficult to care for such an apron.
A glass apron is convenient because it can be used in the interior not only as a simple transparent material that will emphasize the luxurious finish of wall surfaces, as in the photo modern kitchen with a fashionable apron from the catalog, but also make a pattern on the glass, thereby making the kitchen design more interesting.
You can also use a combined technique in which two glasses are connected by a thin colored film. 
Photos of new aprons for the kitchen
The name “kitchen apron” appeared by association with the work clothes that were worn while cooking. Having a similar protective function, the surface between the desktop and the cabinets also has a decorative purpose. Often it is also a bright accent element of the room. We will consider the questions of which apron to choose for the kitchen, which material is best suited for these purposes, in this article.
An example of a kitchen apron with bright fruit accents
Requirements for a kitchen apron
The apron in the kitchen is an area located in a narrow strip between the countertop and wall cabinets. Moreover, this is a problem area, which daily receives drops of water and splashes from cooking food.
An apron with a laconic ornament over the work area
There are different types of aprons that can make this part of the wall beautiful and practical. But they all share common requirements:
- heat resistance and moisture resistance;
- immunity to chemicals;
- strength;
- ease of care.
Using mosaic ceramic tiles for a backsplash
No matter how neat the housewife is, she still has to wash the kitchen apron. It is not always possible to clean it with plain water and a sponge. There are a number of chemicals designed to remove grease. Therefore, the wall surface must be well resistant to water and cleaning agents.
Metal coated apron
It is worth taking care of the joints of the work surface and the apron. To prevent dirt and water from entering these places, they are treated silicone sealant and cover with a plinth, plastic or ceramic. And to protect the seams, moisture-resistant grout and special varnish are used.
This is how ceramic tile grouting works
Important! Traditionally, an apron covers the entire strip of wall between work surface And upper cabinets. But at the request of the owners, individual parts in the area of the hood and sink can also be decorated.
A colorful apron above the work area in a linear kitchen set
Types of aprons by material
When deciding which apron to choose for the kitchen, it is worth considering several types of materials. The operational and aesthetic properties of the area near the work surfaces, as well as its durability, depend on them.
Kitchen apron made of mosaic ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are one of the most popular finishing materials and can be used in kitchens with different stylistic directions. And a huge selection of colors and textures allows you to turn even an ordinary kitchen with modest furniture into a stylish room. The service life of tiles varies: ceramic will last 15 years or more, glazed - more than three decades, double firing will allow it to retain its qualities for half a century.
Apron made of ceramic tiles of the same texture, different shades
The tiles are known for their fire resistance, which is important for a kitchen with a gas stove. It is resistant to water and easy to maintain, easy to wash and clean, and dried drops of water and grease are not as noticeable as on other materials. Moreover, almost any chemical reagents can be used for cleaning.
Ceramic tiles as an ideal surface protection above the kitchen work area
Among the disadvantages of tiles, they note that they are difficult to install. Often, to lay out an apron from such material, you have to use the services of specialists. And high-quality tiles from a renowned manufacturer are quite expensive. But all costs will be recouped by ease of use and long service life.
Laying ceramic tiles for the future backsplash
Stone
Natural stone is rarely used to decorate walls in the kitchen. Such material is expensive and heavy. Its artificial analogue allows you to create a solid desktop surface that smoothly turns into an apron. Usually acrylic stone is used for it, which is hygienic and durable. A surface made of this material will fit well into any kitchen style from minimalism to country.
Exquisite kitchen apron made of natural stone
Among the advantages of artificial stone, a large palette of colors and various decors. Often they choose an imitation of natural material, such as granite or marble. Such an apron is easy to maintain and can be easily restored in case of scratches. Moreover, you don’t even have to remove it for repairs; the technician can do everything at home.
Artificial stone as an apron and countertop for the kitchen
You can complement such an apron with a sink, window sill and bar counter made of the same material, which will create a stylish and impressive interior.
Artificial stone as the main material for countertops and aprons
Artificial stone in the interior of a bright kitchen in the Provence style
MDF
This apron, which consists of thin sheets with a top furniture film, is popular due to its inexpensive price. It is easy to install. To do this, you only need to secure it to the frame or glue it to liquid nails. MDF panels are easy to dismantle.
MDF apron for the kitchen
Among the positive qualities, versatility should also be noted, since the apron fits well into any design. Manufacturers of kitchen sets offer panels in the color of the countertop with an additional corner plinth in the same design. It is moisture resistant and perfectly tolerates mechanical damage.
Kitchen apron made of MDF panels
One of the disadvantages of an MDF apron is its fragility: constant exposure to elevated temperatures and moisture will gradually render it unusable. Unlike ceramics or glass, the material is flammable and can release toxic substances when ignited.
MDF apron over the work surface
Mosaic
A mosaic apron is unusual, but at the same time traditional version wall decoration in the kitchen. It is made from the same material as large-format tiles, but has its own operating characteristics and spectacular appearance. The mosaic panel consists of small elements glued to a special base.
Bright mosaic tiles for a splashback in the kitchen
Note! The price of such an apron will be quite high. But with a huge variety of colors and patterns, you can choose the option that will perfectly fit into the style plan of the kitchen.
Mosaic tiles in the style of a kitchen set
In addition to the price, mosaic surfaces are difficult to install. It is necessary to pay attention to the seams, of which there are quite a lot, otherwise they can quickly lose their original appearance. The mosaic is also difficult to dismantle.
Masonry mosaic tiles on the kitchen apron
Mirror
An extraordinary choice of material for a kitchen apron is a mirror. A long strip above the work surface will visually increase the available space. It will create a feeling of infinity and freedom. And on a sunny day or when the lamps are on, it can also fill the kitchen with additional light.
A mirror as an apron in the kitchen visually expands the scope of the room
Caring for such an apron is easy. The material is usually subjected to special treatment, so it withstands chemical influences well. It can be washed with ordinary kitchen products. The mirror withstands temperature changes well, and the manufacturing technology gives it sufficient strength.
Mirror surface of the kitchen apron
Among the disadvantages, it should be noted that when high humidity This apron gets sweaty quickly. And all the stains and splashes will be very clearly visible on it.
Kitchen apron made of mirror mosaic
Glass
This material for the apron is new among other finishing options. It is made from glass panels having a thickness of more than 6 mm. And it is decorated according to the customer’s wishes: it can be color photo printing or artistic matting. This material is also safe to use; the glass is specially tempered so that if the surface is damaged, sharp fragments do not appear.
Tempered glass splashback with built-in lighting
A glass apron is convenient in everyday life. It is easy to clean, and today there are many ways to prevent stains. special means. This material can also withstand high temperatures from a hob. The glass surface looks like a single sheet. This is done by sanding the edges and carefully joining the panels without visible seams.
Apron made of white frosted tempered glass
The disadvantage of a glass apron is its price and constant polishing of the surface.
Glass apron as important decorative element in the kitchen
Plastic
This option suits many because it has beautiful view kitchen apron low cost money. Its service life can be five years. The plastic is installed and removed very easily, without requiring special and thorough preparation of the walls. Alternatively, such panels can have seams or be made seamless.
Exquisite plastic apron for the kitchen in rich red color
The design of a plastic apron can be very diverse: plain, with a pattern, photo printing; imitating various materials. You can choose different surface textures of the sheets: glossy or matte, with or without embossing. This kind of apron is easy to maintain, but you need to attach it at a sufficient distance from the stove or cover it with glass. Over time, scratches and damage appear on the plastic, so do not use hard brushes when cleaning.
Kitchen apron made of purple plastic
Apron design
When thinking about which apron to choose for the kitchen, some owners want to make a bright accent spot in the kitchen, while others prefer not to worry about the aesthetic side, focusing on practicality and usefulness.
Mosaic multi-colored apron for the kitchen
The following design options are available:
- Neutrality. The selected option performs a purely functional task. But it happens that the combination of an apron and a tabletop, made in a single decor, becomes the highlight of the kitchen;
- Contrast. The purpose of this decoration is to attract attention. A contrasting apron can break up the monotony color scheme kitchens and focus on this area;
- Brightness. The wall above the desk in a similar color sophistication will create a heightened mood in the interior. Various accessories are selected to support it: curtains, cabinet handles, towels;
- Style. A kitchen apron can become an indispensable element that supports the style direction of the room. For example, a subject panel for classics, imitation of old wood for Provence, a metal base for techno - such a design creates the right mood in the design.
When thinking about what material to choose for a kitchen backsplash, plastic, tile or glass, get acquainted with other options. Market building materials can also offer aluminum, wood, and decorative brick.
Metal apron for the kitchen made of sheet aluminum
Wooden panel as an apron and countertop
But when deciding to buy, think that you will only have to purchase 3-4 square meters, and the requirements for such a surface are quite high. Therefore, you should not skimp on material, especially since housewives have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. And not only look at these walls, but also monitor their integrity and cleanliness.
The kitchen apron is the part of the wall between the wall cabinets and the surface of the kitchen countertop. No one can say which apron for the kitchen is the best, and what exactly you should choose from the huge variety of building materials. This is purely a choice of your taste and the capabilities of your wallet. But we will try to tell you about what types of kitchen aprons there are, what their pros and cons are, as well as how to make such an apron for the kitchen with your own hands, how to install an apron in the kitchen, how to secure it.
Functionality of a kitchen apron
The kitchen is perhaps one of the most favorite places in the apartment. Family members gather for breakfast in the kitchen, lunch in the kitchen, and family dinner usually takes place in this room.
At the same time, in the kitchen there are all kinds of appliances, water is flowing, the stove and oven are working. Smells, moisture, fumes - all these properties of the kitchen space cannot but lead to the fact that the requirements for finishing materials used in kitchen renovations are quite strict. And among all the finishing materials, it is the apron that stands out, to which the most stringent requirements are imposed.
This is understandable - splashes from frying pans standing on the stove, drops of water from the tap fly onto the apron, it is exposed to temperature effects, and in different parts the apron is different - the closer to the stove and oven, the stronger the effect. Tiny food particles and traces gas stoves leave stains on the surface of kitchen items. And if you don't protect it from harmful effects the kitchen wall with an apron, it will very quickly become unusable.
Therefore, the functionality of a kitchen apron lies in the following requirements for it:
- the apron must be durable and easily withstand both temperature influences and mechanical damage;
- it must be moisture resistant, not allow water to pass through, and not be afraid of exposure to both hot and cold water;
- the kitchen apron must not react to chemical compounds, organic and inorganic acids, alkalis and other compounds included in detergents;
- the kitchen apron should be easy to clean from any dirt;
- it should look beautiful in the interior of the room.
Choosing facing material for a kitchen apron
When choosing a material, you should consider not only the factors mentioned above. It is necessary, taking into account the interior and lighting of the kitchen, to decide on the color scheme.
If your kitchen windows face north. And the sun doesn’t get there, it’s better to have a brightly colored apron to liven up the kitchen interior. If your kitchen space is flooded with sunlight all day, then this interior detail can have light, muted shades, or, conversely, be glossy black.
And one more very important tip - follow moderation. If you have a kitchen set and the walls are made in calm light (or dark) colors, then you can make an apron for the kitchen in some crazy color or material.
But if the kitchen is bright, with walls painted in some life-affirming color, multi-colored cabinets, and curtains with butterflies of all sizes, then it is preferable to make a plain apron for it.
Considering necessary criteria(ease of care, strength, moisture and heat resistance) when choosing a facing material, you should pay attention to:
- ceramic tiles;
- porcelain stoneware;
- a natural stone;
- fake diamond;
- mosaic;
- PVC and MDF panels;
- metal surface;
- strained glass;
- laminate;
- parquet.
Popular materials for an apron in the kitchen
The most popular material is, of course, ceramic tile. With a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and textures of this facing material, it easily fits into a wide variety of interiors.
The tiles are not afraid of moisture, can easily withstand high temperatures, are easy to clean and last a long time. The latter circumstance can be negative for those who like to frequently make changes to the interior.
Porcelain tiles are even more durable material than tiles, and with high-quality installation it will serve you faithfully for many years. Porcelain tiles will look especially organic if the countertop is made of the same material. Having picked up suitable friend Using different shades of material for finishing tabletops and walls, you can achieve a very interesting color effect.
Natural stone is an expensive material, and it is quite rare to find it as a facing material when installing a backsplash in the kitchen. However, some fans exquisite interiors chosen as finishing material namely natural stone. We must give him his due, the natural stone looks simply luxurious. Unless, of course, it was laid in the five-meter kitchen of a Khrushchev apartment.
Artificial stone is cheaper, although it looks no worse than natural stone, and is even easier to maintain. Countertops, kitchen aprons, and even sinks are made from this material. All together, in the right way color scheme, will allow you to achieve very interesting and harmonious design kitchens.
Artificial stone apron
Kitchen aprons made of mosaic can be either single-color or multi-color. From the mosaic you can lay out a picture, an interesting pattern or ornament, or you can simply lay it in a solid canvas of the same color. Mosaics are made in a variety of combinations, combined with a variety of materials, it depends solely on your imagination and on what result you want to achieve. A kitchen apron made of elegant mirror mosaic looks very beautiful and original. But all the dirt, even the most insignificant, will be visible on it. Kitchen with apron made of glass mosaic looks stunning, but it is very impractical.
Metal aprons for the kitchen look quite interesting, unusual and easy to maintain. Just remember that metal cannot be cleaned with abrasives. detergent. And still observe the measure, since the line when choosing a metal apron is between original idea and the kitsch is very subtle. However, for lovers of the “techno” style, a kitchen apron made of metal is very suitable.
MDF and PVC panels also look good. They are inexpensive, easy to care for and imitate the most different materials- wood, stone, brick, and also the most different color. Such panels are not very durable for the kitchen, although they are moisture resistant and respond well to temperature changes. This material, however, is quite easy to damage. However, given their cost and ease of installation, such facing material is easy to replace, giving the kitchen a new look.
Glass splashbacks look amazing and are easy to care for, but they are still quite fragile and can break. Therefore, they must be handled with caution. They look very interesting and expensive kitchen interior 3D glass splashbacks for the kitchen, for example in marine theme. If you decide to install just such an apron in your kitchen, then you need to understand that the main emphasis in the room will be on this splendor, and there is no need for more overly bright details in the kitchen, otherwise it will look vulgar and intrusive.
Laminate and parquet are quite rare as materials for kitchen splashbacks, but they look good and are easy to care for. Laminate, thanks to the tightly connected parts, forms a smooth surface and is easy to clean. A pattern made from pieces of parquet looks beautiful and elegant.
Kitchen apron sizes
Everything is clear about the length of the kitchen apron - it depends on the size of the kitchen and the length of the surface that is located between the countertop and the cabinets on the walls.
But with height everything is somewhat more complicated.
The height of the kitchen splashback will depend on a number of factors. These include:
- height of kitchen furniture;
- hob size and type;
- size of kitchen wall cabinets;
- the growth of your household, especially those who stand at the stove.
The kitchen apron should be slightly below table level and slightly extend under the countertop. In this case, there should be no difficulty in opening the upper cabinets, and the hand should reach the lower shelves of the cabinets. For convenience, the height of lower cabinets standing on the floor should be just below the waist.
The distance between the upper and lower edges of the apron (this distance is called both the height and width of the kitchen apron) should be on average 50 - 120 cm, depending on the height of the ceilings and the size of the kitchen unit. The width of the apron in the kitchen also includes overlaps (about 2 cm).
How to make a kitchen apron with your own hands
Whatever facing material you choose, laying a kitchen apron begins with preparing the wall surface.
For light aprons, such as those made of laminate, PVC and MDF panels, and for heavy ones, such as porcelain stoneware or ceramic tiles, and especially glass, it is produced differently.
Under tiles, porcelain tiles and glass, you need to clean the wall to the very base and knock off all the plaster from it.
After this, you need to ensure that the surface to which the kitchen apron will be attached is even and smooth. Changes should be avoided, otherwise the apron will not last you long, and it will not look as beautiful as you would like.
As for kitchen aprons made of lightweight materials, there is no need to clean the wall to the base; just remove the plaster and lightly level the surface.
Next, under any type of apron, you should install a support made of hard material under the lower part. This can be either a beam or a galvanized corner. The support is attached to the wall along the entire length of the future kitchen apron using self-tapping screws.
How to lay a tiled apron in a kitchen is generally clear to everyone. The installation rules are simple:
- you need to lay it on a special tile adhesive, which hardens quite quickly;
- this glue is applied from below immediately above the support to the width of one tile and the length of the apron;
- after this, they begin to lay the bottom layer of tiles, leaning on a beam or corner attached to the wall;
- Be sure to insert crosses or wedges into the vertical seams between individual tiles so that these seams are even and identical;
- the upper edge of the tiles must be leveled as much as possible using a level;
- twenty minutes later, after the glue on which the first row of tiles is laid has hardened, we begin to lay the next row according to the same rules, using the already laid row as a support;
- we post the rest in exactly the same way facing tiles to the top border of the apron.
A mosaic apron is laid in approximately the same way as a ceramic one, only the fragments are placed not on glue, but on a special gypsum-cement mortar, which takes longer to dry and makes it possible to correct the mosaic fragments if necessary.
Glass apron
With glass it is somewhat more difficult; one person cannot cope with this; assistants are definitely needed.
How to attach such an apron in the kitchen needs to be explained in detail. To begin with, you need to step back about 2 cm from the top edge of the glass and make holes in the wall for the dowels at a distance of about 5 cm from each other. Dowels are inserted into these holes.
Exactly the same holes are drilled along the entire length of the support for self-tapping screws, stepping back from the edge of the support beam or corner by the same 2 cm as in the upper part. Special devices are prepared for both the upper and lower self-tapping screws, with the help of which the glass will be held (most often they are included in the apron kit). After this, you need to once again clean and degrease the wall, as well as that part of the glass that will be adjacent to the wall.
Glue the glass apron onto the silicone. In this case, silicone is applied to the wall surface in waves, with a loop width of approximately 3 cm, quite tightly. Then the glass will stick firmly to the wall. In this case, the waves should be applied vertically to the wall. Silicone hardens quite slowly, which is good, because the glass needs to be installed carefully and carefully.
Two people carefully lift the one-piece glass apron. When lifting the glass, you need to install it on the lower support. After this, the glass must be pressed tightly against the wall over its entire surface. A third person must tighten the screws and press the glass using the holders. You can release the glass only after all the screws - both lower and upper - have been tightly screwed.
Let us immediately note that the gap that forms between the apron and the tabletop must be covered with something, otherwise dirt, food particles and splashes of water will get there. The gap can be closed with a PVC edging.
It is difficult to say from what material it is better to make an apron for the kitchen, since in each specific case you need to be guided by a lot of circumstances, and first of all, by the preferences of the apartment owner.
However, having an idea about certain facing materials for a kitchen apron, you can get an idea of the pros and cons of your choice.
