Installing a Glass Splashback in the Kitchen

Do you need a splashback?

Splashbacks aren’t a necessity for your home, but they are most definitely needed. When renovating your home, a splashback will often get overlooked. They’re usually not thought about until you have to repaint the wall behind your hob. And then you’re left wondering why you never considered installing one to begin with.

Never fear! It’s never too late to jazz up your kitchen with a pop of colour, all whilst protecting your walls.

Glass splashbacks can be incredibly heavy – not to mention being made from fragile material. While it may give you peace of mind to obtain a professional to fit the splashback for you, you’ll save a lot of money by doing the job yourself. We’d advise that you have a second pair of hands on deck though. Just think of the self-satisfaction at the end of the installation!

If you haven’t yet decided between a splashback and tiles, or you’re struggling to pick the best material to use, take a look at our other guides: Splashback or Tiles? Let’s Compare and A Guide to Kitchen Splashbacks.

For this article, we’re going guide you through a step-by-step process to installing your glass splashback.But first, we’re going to answer a couple of your frequently asked questions.

Can Glass Splashbacks Be Cut to Size?

Glass splashbacks can be cut to size however if you’ve purchased an off-the-shelf glass splashback, you won’t be able to do so without cracking the glass.

The glass used for splashbacks is toughened. In the making of a splashback, the glass can be cut to size and to accommodate plug sockets. Although once toughened, you will no longer be able to have it cut.

If you have plug sockets in the way of where your splashback is going to be placed, or you have oddly shaped walls, it’s better to pay a little bit extra and go down the bespoke route.

Can Glass Splashbacks Go Behind a Gas Hob?

Glass can be used behind a glass hob. And, they look great!

As mentioned above, the glass used for splashbacks has been toughened. This means that it can handle high temperatures. Usually, toughened glass will hold until around 400-degrees Celcius. If you use toughened glass, there will be no issues installing it behind a gas hob.

Are Glass Splashbacks Easy to Clean?

Glass splashbacks are incredibly easy to clean and maintain. As the glass is a smooth sheet, wiping the area with a cloth is all you need to do.

Glass is a very durable material. You can use a simple cloth and water to wipe clean, or you can use cleaning detergents; household products won’t damage your glass.

How to Install a Glass Splashback

So, you’ve measured your area and ordered your favourite splashback; it’s arrived and is sitting patiently in its box, ready to be installed.

The tools required and the time needed for installation is minimal. As mentioned above, we’d advise that you have somebody there to help you in case the weight of the glass is too much. Although the glass for a splashback is toughened, it can still break if dropped. So it’s better to be prepared for all eventualities than regret rushing the installation and breaking the glass.

Tools Required for Installing a Kitchen Splashback

Clean cloth
Tape measure
Sealant gun
Adhesive – low acidity silicone
2mm tile spacers