A bespoke splashback can be just the thing to transform the presentation and practicality of a kitchen at an affordable price. Toughened glass is by far the most versatile and durable material for a kitchen splashback, which can be cut to almost any size and shape required.
Freedom of choice is one of the biggest benefits of bespoke splashback design, enabling buyers to exercise total creative freedom. In short, your custom kitchen splashback can be anything you want it to be.
But in order to ensure the finished result looks its best, it is important to know how to take measurements for a kitchen splashback. Otherwise, you may find yourself with a panel that either looks out of place or cannot be installed due to size or shape inaccuracies.
A Finishing Touch
When designing and decorating a kitchen, a splashback should always be seen as something as a finishing touch. It is important to make sure that all worktops, cabinets and appliances in the vicinity have been installed, before measuring for a splashback.
Installing a splashback prior to fitting the kitchen’s most important features and fixtures can cause problems. If there is even the lightest size inaccuracy with anything you subsequently install, it could make it difficult to achieve the desired effect.
Where possible a splashback should be left until the later stages of your kitchen renovation project.
Pinpoint Precision
Contrary to popular belief, not every ruler and tape measure is as accurate as it could be. Nor can you necessarily rely on a small, low-quality spirit level to help you mark perfect horizontal and vertical lines.
Consequently, the first thing you need to do when measuring for a splashback is to ensure you have a decent quality tape measure and spirit level. You can then go about marking out the exact dimensions of the splashback you need using a pencil.
Be mindful of the fact that depending on the type of splashback you choose, you may need to allow a few extra millimetres for expansion. Consult with your supplier before submitting your measurements in order to ensure this has been taken into account.
Remember Cut-outs and Screw Holes
After marking out the basic outline of your splashback, you will now need to mark the cut-outs. This only applies if there are any sockets, switches, or anything else the splashback will sit on top of. You need to ensure these measurements are taken with equal pinpoint accuracy, including their exact distances from the horizontal and vertical edges.
If you plan to install an opaque splashback using an adhesive, screw holes will not need to be drilled in the panel. By contrast, if you are installing a clear splashback using screws and plugs, you will need to ensure the holes have been drilled in the right places.
Toughened-glass splashbacks in particular should always be supplied with pre-drilled holes, as to attempt the DIY approach is to risk the panel cracking or shattering. If unsure as to the most appropriate installation method for your splashback, consult with your supplier before ordering.
If in Doubt…
While the DIY approach to splashback installation is both accessible and satisfying, it is not necessarily for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your ability to install your own splashback, consider hiring a local contractor. This way, everything from taking measurements to installation to final finishing will be taken care of on your behalf; all with the added reassurance of an extensive warranty on their work, for total peace of mind.
