What a kitchen apron is made of on the wall. What materials to make a modern apron in the kitchen. Natural stone

The apron protects the walls near the sink, stove and work surface in the kitchen from splashes of grease, water, dust and other negative influences. A number of requirements are put forward for the working wall, incl. high strength and practicality, ease of care, the ability to withstand moisture and high temperatures. In addition, the apron should have good external data, since it takes up a significant part of the kitchen. What materials can be used to decorate the working wall in the kitchen, what are their main advantages, and what else should be considered when choosing finishing material?

To all the requirements for the material of the kitchen apron described above, it is worth adding that it should have the most smooth surface and be low-porous. This reduces the ability of the material to absorb moisture, and the ease of maintenance, on the contrary, increases.

Today, the following materials are used to organize an apron:

• ceramic tile;
• mosaic;
• glass;
• PVC panels;
• natural and decorative stone;
• MDF panels;
• metal;
• plaster, paint and other materials.

Each of these materials has its own advantages, disadvantages and features, and further we will dwell on the characteristics of each of them.

No. 2. Ceramic tiles: an immortal classic

Most of us still choose ceramic tiles for kitchen backsplash, and for good reason. This is one of the best and most practical options, and it has a lot of advantages:

• high strength;
• heat resistance;
• ease of care;
• a huge assortment: you can choose tiles of any size, color and with any pattern;
• relatively simple installation, which, with a certain skill, can even be done independently.

With the help of tiles, you can create a variety of effects, for example, highlight a certain area using a material of a certain color: with decorative tiles, you can highlight the area near the stove or sink, and lay out the rest with simpler tiles. It is worth noting that dirt can accumulate in the embossed ceramic tiles and in the inter-tile joints, so it is better to choose the smoothest material possible, and make the seams thin or varnish them. When combining tiles above the work area and other finishes in the rest of the kitchen, it is better not to dwell on one color. It is better to separate the working area from the dining area in the kitchen with color, thus performing effective zoning.

No. 3. Mosaic: space for imagination

With the help of mosaics, you can create the most incredible patterns and even whole pictures. A kitchen apron can become a real work of art, and performance characteristics the mosaics are very good. Among the main advantages it is worth noting:

• moisture resistance;
• heat resistance;
• ease of care and hygiene;
• strength;
• wear resistance and durability;
• unique appearance.

These are all common characteristics of a mosaic, because it can be of different types and made from different materials:

• ceramic mosaic repeats all the characteristics of ceramic tiles, only any patterns can be laid out from tiles measuring 2 * 2 cm;
• glass mosaic perfectly shows itself in operation, as it is completely inert to the effects of moisture and fire. In addition, this material may slightly change color depending on lighting conditions, which makes it even more unique;
• stone mosaic is quite rare due to the high price, and its care is difficult;
• metal mosaic is quite durable and practical, only there is no hope for a variety of shades and colors.

The disadvantages of mosaics include the complexity of the installation process and, in some cases, the cost. You need a perfectly flat surface, and grouting should be treated very carefully so that dirt does not accumulate in them. Otherwise, it is an excellent material for finishing an apron in the kitchen.

No. 4. Glass: unusual and effective

Glass has been used to decorate kitchen aprons not so long ago, but in vain. This is an excellent material that meets all the requirements put forward for this area. Glass panels with a pattern applied to them are also called skinals. They are made of thick tempered glass and decorated in various ways: by sandblasting, placing inside a 3D polycarbonate material, or using ultraviolet printing. Sandblasting involves the impact on the glass surface of small abrasive particles under high pressure, as a result of which a relief volumetric pattern can be obtained, and for an even more effective result, some areas can be painted with colored enamels. Using UV printing, you can also get realistic, beautiful images, and any patterns and colors can be applied to glass.

The main advantages of this finishing method:

• high strength, because tempered glass is used, which is difficult to break, and even with a strong impact, it is not able to injure anyone, because it shatters into fragments with blunt edges;
• practicality and ease of care, resistance to aggressive detergents, while the appearance of the surface remains unchanged for many years;
• absolute seamlessness of the coating, which ensures excellent hygiene, because dirt and microorganisms will not accumulate in the seams;
• a unique appearance, because you can apply absolutely any image: even fruit, even a picture, even your own photo.

As you can see, glass panels, or skins, are distinguished by high operational and external characteristics, but they are not used so often due to the high cost of the material and work on organizing the apron in this way. Although the glass apron is easy to wash, it will have to be done regularly, because all splashes and stains are clearly visible on its surface. It will be very difficult to change the image if you wish, and you will have to completely think over the interior in advance, because if later it turns out that you need to organize a rail in the area of ​​the working area, then this will not work. On the other hand, the glass apron can be illuminated very effectively, and it will acquire a 3D effect.

No. 5. PVC panels: cheap and practical

The use of plastic panels for finishing the kitchen apron is one of the most budgetary ways to organize the space of the work area. In addition to the price, this material has many other advantages:

• ease of installation, because almost everyone can handle it;
• easy to clean, the panels are very easy to clean and withstand even exposure to aggressive chemicals;
• moisture resistance;
• durability, and the plastic does not lose its original appearance over time;
• the ability to withstand temperatures up to 1150C, but before buying it is important to inquire about the fire resistance of the material;
• the seams between the panels can be decorated with special corners, which can even be matched to the railing or kitchen furniture.

Plastic panels do not shine with a variety of colors: you can choose the right material for the interior of the kitchen, but it will not be unique, and it is quite possible that you will find exactly the same in the neighbor's kitchen. But it’s not that bad. It is much worse that plastic panels are easily scratched, so you need to be careful when handling them.

No. 6. PVC film - temporary solution

If you need to make a quick and inexpensive temporary repair, then it makes sense to take a closer look at the PVC film. For a while, just before you make a normal repair, it can serve normally. Its main advantage is its low cost. In addition, the range of colors of such films is simply huge: natural materials, landscapes, ornaments, etc. You can cope with gluing such material yourself, the film is resistant to mechanical damage, but this is where its advantages end.

This material it is able to gradually fade under the influence of sunlight, it is afraid of high temperatures, and if damaged it cannot be restored. It can be used as a temporary decoration of the kitchen, but it is not suitable for permanent use.

No. 7. MDF panels: budget and practical option

Execute kitchen apron it is possible from MDF panels: it will be inexpensive, but it will be much more practical than finishing from film or PVC plates. The main advantages of this method of finishing the working wall:

• moisture resistance and strength;
• fast production, because, as a rule, such an apron is created together with a kitchen set;
• ease of installation. The walls do not need careful preliminary preparation, and the panels can be fixed either on the frame or with the help of liquid nails. If you need to replace the apron, this can be done very simply - you don't even need to remove the furniture;
• seamless coverage, and this is important in a kitchen work area;
• beautiful appearance: such panels can imitate ceramic tiles, stone, wood, brick, and recently a bright pattern has been applied to the material, so that the apron becomes a real highlight of the kitchen.

But the material, unfortunately, has its drawbacks:

• not all detergents can be used to clean the surface. Too active substances can negatively affect the material, spoiling its appearance and performance;
• flammability, therefore, it is better to use MDF panels only in those kitchens where an electric or induction cooker is installed.

No. 8. Natural and artificial stone

Natural stone is used extremely rarely for organizing an apron, but if it is used, it is often granite. Although the material is moisture resistant, withstands high temperatures, it is heavy and expensive and requires special care. Often, a stone apron is created in continuation to a stone countertop.

An alternative to natural stone is an artificial analogue, which is inferior only in terms of strength, and wins in all other characteristics. Artificial stone can imitate any kind of natural stone, it looks great in the interior. In addition, it is moisture resistant, withstands high temperatures, stains of grease and various products will not leave a trace on it, and in terms of care, it is quite simple. At the same time, its price and weight are much lower than that of natural stone, so the working wall can be safely finished in this way.

No. 9. Mirror: original, but troublesome

A mirrored apron will be a real highlight of any kitchen. He is able to visually significantly enlarge the room, so this is a good option for the smallest kitchens. The mirror is not afraid of moisture, and high temperatures, drops of fat, detergents are not able to harm it. This is a very original way of decoration that will transform the kitchen.

There are probably more minuses to a mirror apron than pluses, although the issue should be considered individually in each case. The ability to reflect and double the area of ​​the room can play a cruel joke: the amount of dirty dishes will also be doubled. There is often high humidity in the kitchen, so the mirror can fog up, and its appearance deteriorates at the same time. But the mirror will look much worse when splashed with water and grease. Of course, it is not difficult to wipe it off and put it in order, but such a procedure will have to be carried out constantly with active cooking.

No. 10. Metal: ideal for high-tech style

The metal apron will only fit into the interior in a modern style. This solution has a lot of advantages: durability, resistance to fire and water, chemicals. At the same time, you will have to put up with the fact that all splashes, drips, stains are clearly visible on the metal. They will need to be wiped down regularly to ensure the coating looks perfect, but this is not that difficult, especially since you can get rid of the dirt pretty quickly.

The main disadvantage of this finish is its cold appearance, and there are very few possible colors. It is important to think over the interior of the kitchen very well so that such an apron looks really organic and stylish. Moreover, this material reflects light very well, so you need to think over the lighting system, so as not to get a room with an abundance of glare and sunbeams.

No. 11. How to organize a kitchen apron in an original way?

A kitchen apron can be finished with paint or plaster, of course, with maximum water resistance, but if you cook something more or less often, then this option is not suitable, especially when it comes to light finish colors.

In addition to all the ways to organize a work wall described above, there are also a lot of unusual, creative options that will emphasize your individuality and make the kitchen unique. Here are just a few of them:

Everyone, if they think a little, will be able to offer their own original version finishing the kitchen apron, but the main thing is to make this area not only cute, but also practical.

In conclusion

A kitchen apron is regularly exposed to negative influences: splashing water, drops of fat and various foods, high temperatures, frequent washing. All this makes us look for the most practical and resistant material to all this. Everyone wants the kitchen to be also pretty, stylish and harmonious, therefore another requirement is put forward for the finishing material - a pleasant appearance. In addition to ceramic tiles, there are many other ways to decorate a working wall of a kitchen: when choosing one or another option, it is important to correlate all the pros and cons, think over how the material fits into the conditions of the kitchen, and only then make a decision.

remstroiblog.ru

Apron for the kitchen - 130 photos and material comparison

An apron is the part of the wall between the upper and lower cabinets of the kitchen unit. Its task is to protect the wall from moisture, hot steam, grease, splashes and any dirt. A beautiful work area will stretch even an ordinary interior, and an awkward design will ruin the impression of expensive facades. To make your choice easier, we have compared the most practical and effective finishes six by one. important criteria... Designer tips on what to make an apron for the kitchen, a comparison of popular materials and real photos of beautiful aprons - in this article.

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Optimal dimensions

Typically, the height of the apron in the kitchen 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 headset.

• It is more convenient for a low hostess to hang the upper modules lower, and make the space between the cabinets small - 40-55 cm.

Small corner kitchen with 60 cm high ceramic backsplash
An example of a low apron - only 40 cm between two tiers of cabinets

• In a kitchen with a gas stove, the distance between hob and the hood should be at least 75-80 cm. Allow for this protrusion in the design.
• Most often, the finishing material is used to cover the entire wall along the countertop. If you wish, you can restrict yourself to small protective inserts only in the area of ​​\ u200b \ u200bthe sink and hob.
• With absence wall cabinets it is worth decorating the wall up to the ceiling, as in the photo below.

Built-in white kitchen without upper cabinets with black and white skinned to the ceiling

The edges of the apron should go a couple of centimeters under the lower / upper cabinets. It is advisable to protect the joint between the wall and the countertop with a plinth and treat it with silicone sealant. Without it, water will flow behind the floor stands. The back wall of fiberboard will swell and deform over time, and fungus grows freely on the walls.

We select the color and design of the apron trim

• Decide in advance what role you assign to decorating the part of the wall behind the stove and sink: an inconspicuous background for a beautiful headset or the main accent in a kitchen interior? See how the look of a glossy white kitchen is changing along with the design of the apron:

• Regardless of the material chosen, the most versatile color of the apron is white: plain or with mosaic inserts, bright tiles, ceramic decors with photo prints. It can be combined with a headset of any color. Other neutral tones are also popular: milky, creamy, beige, light gray, champagne and ivory.
• Dark finishes are impractical; water droplets and splashes of grease will be particularly noticeable.

If your budget for repairs is limited, you can purchase inexpensive headset with simple fronts, neutral wallpaper and flooring. But on the other hand, decorate the part of the wall above the countertop with more expensive material and turn it into an interior decoration.

Stylish accent in the interior of the kitchen-living room

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Pros and cons of popular finishing materials

Tile apron

Kitchen apron made of ceramic tiles 10x10 cm with a pattern in patchwork style

The best option in terms of price, quality, durability and convenience. In the decoration of the apron, glazed wall tiles are often used, less often thin and lightweight porcelain stoneware. The most popular formats are 10x10, 15x15, 20x30 and 20x40 cm, as well as a different-sized "hog".

Ceramics have many designs for different tastes and every wallet. The surface of the tile can imitate the texture of stone, wood, metal, concrete. When choosing a tile for finishing a working wall in the kitchen, take a closer look at its texture: rough and embossed is difficult to keep clean, so you should give preference to a smooth one.

Photo of aprons for the kitchen from tiles in real interiors apartments and houses, see the selection below:

Combined mosaic and tile backsplash

Contrast grout serves as a decor

Universal option kitchen apron design of any style - hog format tiles

In addition to background tiles of different colors, manufacturers include ceramic panels and borders in their collections.
Decorative frieze on a tiled apron

Price. Tiling the apron will cost more than plastic, but much cheaper than glass and acrylic stone. In addition to the cost of the material, do not forget to include in the calculation the costs of the leveling mixture, tile adhesive, grout for joints, sealant and the work of craftsmen.

Mounting. Laying should be entrusted to a professional. The working area in the kitchen is always in the spotlight, and it is not easy to lay out the tiles perfectly without experience. An important point: ceramics is for a long time. If you don't like the tile design, changing the backsplash will not be easy.

Preparation. Requires thorough surface preparation. The curved wall will have to be leveled.

Durability. In the kitchen, an apron decorated with ceramic tiles will easily serve you for 15 years or more.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care. ★★★★★

You can use detergents, including those with light abrasives. Tile joints require special care. The usual light grout darkens over time and looks untidy. To avoid this, use an epoxy that does not change color.

• Which tile is suitable for the apron and how to choose it correctly.

• Boar tile in the kitchen - a guide of choice and real photos

From photo tiles

An example of decorating a working wall in a kitchen with tiles with photo printing

You can limit yourself to factory decors (available in the collections of most major manufacturers of kitchen ceramics) or make a photo panel to order. Most of the pros and cons of this type of finish are the same as that of a regular one. tile... But pay attention to a few significant disadvantages:

• the price of photo tiles is much higher than usual collections
• inexpensive sublimation-printed tiles fade and fade in the sun over time, and the decal costs twice as much
• does not like aggressive household chemicals especially with abrasive elements
• factory-made photo decors are more durable and stronger than custom-made

Glass apron

Glass apron for kitchen with photo printing in black and white

A beautiful and practical finish, which in many properties is not inferior to ceramics. A glass apron is easier to care for than people think, and heat and moisture do not spoil its appearance. For finishing the working area in the kitchen, durable tempered glass with a thickness of 6 and 8 mm is used with different designs: transparent, colored, tinted, frosted and decorated with photo printing.

Photo printing on a glass surface is applied in different ways. Read more about them in this article.

Images of flowers and fruits on skinale are the most popular subjects in kitchen design
Working wall made of plain glass, painted with enamel

Price. Such a finish can hardly be called a budget one: glass panels with photo printing are much more expensive than tiles and mosaics, not to mention plastic. In addition to the cost of making the skin, you will have to pay extra for fitting and fitting a picture (you can choose an image from the catalog), photo tests, installation, cutting out holes for sockets and other services that are not obvious to an inexperienced buyer. Most inexpensive option- a transparent glass screen, the wall behind which can be painted with paint or pasted over with beautiful wallpaper.

Mounting. The main advantage of the glass backsplash compared to other types of wall decoration in the kitchen is the quick installation and the absence of "dirty" work. The process of assembling the finished panel takes a couple of hours, but it requires experience, accuracy and skill. In case of damage, it will not be possible to get rid of by replacing a small fragment: the coating will have to be changed entirely.

Preparation. Using special fasteners(and this is the most popular way to install skinals), there is no need to level the wall. The glass lags behind the surface by several millimeters, so it will hide irregularities and old materials, including tiles. To glue the panels, the base must be perfectly clean, dry and even, otherwise they will not adhere well.

Durability. Contrary to the fears of many, skinals are able to decorate your kitchen for a long time without losing their attractive appearance. Some companies provide a 5-year warranty. Of course, we are talking about high-quality tempered glass kitchen aprons with UV printing with good ink, and not about cheap imitations of plexiglass with a pattern on the film.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care. ★★★★

Fingerprints, water and grease marks are more noticeable on glass than on ceramics. But a smooth panel without seams is much easier to clean than walls with a ceramic finish, where you have to clean out multiple 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.

Apron made of plastic

Apron for kitchen made of MDF with plastic wood imitation to match the countertop and baseboard

A good choice for economy class headsets and temporary repairs, especially if you are going to do it yourself. A decent assortment of plastic wall panels that are used as an apron in the kitchen can be found in any building hypermarket like Leroy Merlin, OBI, Castorama, etc.

There are two options:

• Furniture panel made of MDF, chipboard and fiberboard, faced with decorative HPL plastic - plain or with wood, ceramics, stone, mosaic decor. The apron from MDF can also be finished with acrylic with photo printing.
• PVC wall panels. Flexible screens are attached to the wall using glue and aluminum profiles. In terms of practicality and durability, they are inferior to MDF and chipboard: they are thinner, lose color faster, they cannot be installed in kitchens with a gas hob - they are deformed.

Imitation mosaic
PVC panel in the kitchen instead of tiles MDF panel with photo printing

Light plastic apron in a modern kitchen in the style of minimalism

Price. The most budgetary option in our selection. A three-meter panel can be purchased for an average of 1.5-3 thousand rubles.

Mounting. An important advantage of a plastic apron is easy installation, which even a beginner can handle. Unlike ceramics and glass, it is easy to make holes for sockets and rails in it right during the installation process. When panels need to be replaced, you can easily and quickly dismantle the old ones.

Preparation. Depends on the type, but most products do not require wall alignment: they are mounted on wooden crate from the rails to the dowel, nails or screws.

Durability. Of all the materials in our review, plastic aprons have the shortest lifespan. Compared to other options, they will lose their "face" the fastest and are unlikely to last more than 3-5 years. But they are easy and inexpensive to replace.

Moisture resistance. ★★★

According to this indicator, aprons covered with a layer of plastic are inferior to competing materials. But if you take a high-quality slab (MDF is better than chipboard) and close the joints with the countertop with a plinth, you should not be afraid of problems.

Care. ★★★★

It is enough to wipe the smooth plastic surface with a damp microfiber cloth or a soft sponge. Make sure that water does not flood the edges, otherwise the base of the apron may warp and swell.

From the mosaic

Mosaic backsplash in contrasting colors will make your kitchen design bright and dynamic. Mosaic has many types: it can be glass, ceramic, stone, metal ... This material is a "chameleon", which 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 finishing an apron. The laying work and the necessary materials will also be more expensive: you will have to buy special glue and grout. If you want to save money, choose a mosaic tile. It is cheaper and makes installation much easier.

Mounting. Laying and grouting numerous joints is a laborious process: it requires experience, time and great care.

Preparation. While mesh mosaics can be used on curved surfaces (such as a curved wall), leveling and careful preparation of the base is indispensable. Any unevenness in the apron area will be conspicuous and spoil the effect of the beautiful finish.

Durability. Will serve without complaints for many years. According to European manufacturers, the normal service life of a quality material is 20-25 years.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care. ★★★★

Acrylic stone

Most often, both an apron and a countertop are made from artificial stone at once.

Combination of stone and stainless steel

Corian Shaped Wall Panel
A stone kitchen apron is ideal in a classic interior

Price. Perhaps the most expensive design option in our selection.

Mounting. Requires the work of experienced craftsmen, but there will be no dirt during installation.

Preparation. In order for the thin panel to fit snugly against the wall, it is important to properly prepare the base. First of all, get rid of irregularities so that there are no voids left.

Durability. Acrylic stone will last a very long time if handled carefully. If you frequently brush the surface with pots and kitchen utensils, micro-scratches will appear over time. To the credit of the material, it is easy to restore it: grind cracks and build up chips. After polishing it will be as good as new.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care. ★★★★★

Due to the absence of micropores on the surface and seams, where dirt usually collects, the wall is easy to keep clean. It is enough to wash the panel with clean / soapy water. Even stubborn dirt can be easily removed without special means.

You can read more about this finishing material in this article.

Photo of aprons made of unusual materials

If you want a different finish, take a look at the ideas below. The working wall above the kitchen countertop can be painted with moisture-resistant paint, pasted over with wallpaper, finished with laminate, mirror panel, stainless steel sheet, decorative plaster, brick, stone. Not all solutions are practical in the kitchen: the apron may need additional protection in the form of clear glass or acrylic lacquer.

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What to make an apron in the kitchen

Kitchen decoration should not only be pleasing to the eye, but also practical. When choosing a material for an apron, you need to pay attention to its size, quality, aesthetic beauty and cost. The distance above the work surface, that is, the countertop and hanging cabinets of the headset, should be optimal to protect the wall from hot steam, oily splashes, grease and other contaminants. As a rule, finishing is done along the entire wall, however, quite often it is limited to individual inserts, for example, in the sink area, stove.

When choosing an apron model, consider its size. The average height of this element is from 45 to 60 cm. When choosing certain sizes, you must start from your own height and the type of plate. The fact is that the owners of gas stoves must observe the distance between the hood and the hob from 75-80 cm.

When installing the apron in the kitchen, leave a couple of centimeters under the top and bottom set, countertop. The visible joint should be hidden with a plinth or treated with silicone or sealant. This is done so that water does not flow behind the floor cabinet, and its wooden walls do not swell, deform, and do not provoke the formation of mold and mildew.

Each material has its own characteristics, technical characteristics. So, experts do not recommend using unglazed ceramic tiles, because they have a porous structure. If you do not want to face the accumulation of grease, moisture, which is difficult to remove from the surface, pay attention to chipboard, glass, Italian tiles, MDF and plastic, artificial stone. All other materials will be an excellent barrier against bacteria and their growth. With proper care, a kitchen apron will last a long time.

To facilitate regular maintenance, try to correctly choose a flat and smooth design without seams, joints.

Often, a kitchen apron acts as an excellent design accent in the interior. You don't have to spend fabulous money on boring kitchen facades, super-washable wallpaper, expensive insulated floors. It is enough to decorate the apron with quality materials in an interesting color scheme. It will certainly attract the glances of curious guests, it will be great to decorate the general atmosphere of the kitchen. There is a colossal amount of materials on the market from which you can create a truly artistic masterpiece.

If you do not have enough funds to buy elite European materials, you can use their cheaper counterparts. A similar finish made of MDF, chipboard, plastic perfectly imitates wood species, natural stone, creates amazing stained-glass windows, the effect of broken colored glass, etc. When decorating an apron, it is important to understand what role it will play in the interior of the kitchen. Sometimes it can be a wonderful backdrop for a kitchen set or vice versa. In this zone, you can place a volumetric 3D photo print, visually expanding the workspace, giving a storyline to the kitchen interior.

It can be a seashore, a mesmerizing skyline, floral still lifes, fantasy scenes, animal painting or any national pattern (Scandinavian, Oriental, Provencal, Azulejo, etc.). White is still considered the universal color for an apron. Plastic panels, glass will look great with a headset of any color. So that they do not have a "hospital" boring look, the designers advise to dilute the snow-white tonality with a color insert made of mosaics, ceramic decor, and photo printing. The neutral range also includes the shade of ivory, beige, ivory, milk, cream.

If you stop at a colored apron, be sure to "support" its palette with other interior details. It is best if it goes tone on tone or pattern in pattern with textile elements of the kitchen: curtains, decorative pillows, and wallpaper. The color of marsala, burgundy, lime, emerald, ultramarine will look incredibly stylish in the kitchen.

If lilac will become the key color palette for the bedroom, then in the kitchen it will be rich purple. Strive to use as many natural colors as possible. By the way, there will be all shades of brown, yellow, gray in contrast with black, white, cream, sand, pastel, etc.

One of the most demanded materials is ceramic tiles or small-format porcelain stoneware. They are affordable in price and quality, but more expensive than the chipboard, MDF option. Aprons made of resistant glass and artificial stone are an order of magnitude higher. The latter are mainly used in country cottages, apartments to maintain the prestige of their property.

Try to choose tiles with a glossy finish for ease of maintenance. Its shiny surface will reflect light, which will visually expand the kitchen area. If you are not fond of small square meters, you can use volumetric decors, select relief tile samples, for example, with a 3d effect. For any interior, beige and brown will be a safe option, no matter what style surrounds you (classic, kitsch, vintage or art nouveau).

A feature of the tile is that it easily imitates other materials: stone, wood, glass. A popular decoration will be watercolor painting or patterns with stains. Small dirt and stains are practically invisible with them. When laying tiles, pay attention to problem areas, seams. Light-colored grout will lose its original color over time. It is important at the stage of the beginning of finishing work to use only quality materials with dirt-repellent, moisture-resistant components such as epoxy grout.

You can also choose rectified tiles, in which the distance between the joints does not exceed 2 mm. In this case, the darkened areas during operation will practically not be noticeable. Experts advise choosing tiles with a special coating that perfectly resists aggressive environments. With such a material, it will not be scary to use any chemical agents, even with abrasive particles in the composition.

There are a huge number of options for laying Italian tiles. You can choose a checkerboard, traditional or offset. You can position it diagonally on the Soviet motif or using the kaleidoscope method (in a different color). If you are choosing ceramic tiles of 10 x 10 cm, then when laying, you can do without additional trimming. It looks great in small kitchens.

It will be possible to reduce the time for finishing works with ceramic tiles if you purchase samples of medium size, from 30 x 30 cm and above. They can imitate small tiles, have slots, recesses, but they will fit several times faster.

An apron made with the participation of photo tiles looks unusually fashionable. It will become a unique decoration for the kitchen, bring individuality and luxury to any interior. You can depict absolutely any print, pattern or design above the hob, even your family photo. Such a finish will certainly inspire you to cook delicious, mouth-watering dishes for your beloved household members.

If you are a fighter for quality, durability and longevity, look at tempered glass models. It can be decorated at any time with a pattern, for example, from acrylic. The advantage of such a finish will be resistance to dirt, practicality in use, and a long service life.

The product perfectly "gets along" with the hob, tolerates any temperature fluctuations, does not let moisture through. You can decorate glass with drawings of large flowers, images of birds, animals, vintage items, fruits or vegetables, sweets.

The shine of the glass will keep the kitchen tidy in any light. It is believed that glass, as well as laminate models, is the most noble type of finish; it always looks laconic, expensive and prestigious. When mounting, it is better to use fasteners. You will not scratch the headsets, facades, so repair and finishing work can be carried out at any stage of construction. The mirror apron will be just as popular, correcting all the imperfections in the geometry of your kitchen.

The sophisticated design of a kitchen apron with the help of mosaics is trendy, consists of contrasting shades, non-trivial colors. The mosaic will add a special charm to the kitchen, tenderness and elegance. When installing such a structure, glue, grout is used, which takes most of the time to "eliminate" the seams. It is also necessary to follow the sequence when laying the mosaic.

In the absence of sufficient funds, instead of an apron made of natural stone, an Italian fresco, you can resort to hypoallergenic plastic of the economy class category. There are several options for such a kitchen finish:

made of plastic based on MDF, chipboard or fiberboard;

use of decorative hot-pressed plastic;

creation of stunning visualization "like wood", stone and other materials;

using plastic made of polycarbonate.

All models are easy to install, take care of them, extending their service life every year. You can also think of a budget option made of chipboard and plastic. Such a structure is easy to do with your own hands, replace if necessary. Quite often the material is colorless, transparent. Under it it will turn out to glue stylish wallpapers, create photo printing.

This model exhibits excellent resistance to moisture and high temperatures. If you want to get an apron at an affordable price without seams and joints - take into account the chipboard system!

One of the most aesthetically pleasing ideas would be to use artificial stone. In this case, it is better that the table top is made of the same material. Despite its high cost, finishing is very popular among wealthy owners of cottages, penthouses, townhouses.

Installation requires high-quality work of experienced craftsmen who will create the perfect picture of the interior. Careful handling of this surface guarantees a long service life. The product perfectly tolerates frequent cleaning, including wet cleaning.

For a loft-style design, a hog tile or a brick-like model is suitable. It has a rectangular shape and beveled edges at the edges, which makes it look like a brick. This finish will look great in a classic and modern interior... It is possible to choose both a standard version in the size of 10 x 20 cm, and a large format up to 15 x 45 cm.

As a rule, "hog" is produced in a solid color with a smooth glossy surface. The colors are mostly neutral and calm. It is customary to dilute collections of a kitchen apron with interesting photo printing, drawings with fruits, berries, sweets and other ideas on a culinary theme.

For kitsch, eclectic styles, mosaic products are suitable. They give an atmosphere of well-being, comfort, joy in a wooden house. For luxurious baroque, avant-garde, Romanesque, Mediterranean styles, wall panels are suitable, for which it is important to provide space and symmetry. For the Victorian style, pastoral still lifes, the landscape of famous cities (Ancient Greece, Venice, Florence, etc.) are suitable. Tiles imitating cladding can be complemented by textured patterns, spectacular coating, stylized antique ornaments.

For modern hi-tech, constructivism, avant-garde, it is better to use tempered glass depicting a black-and-white city, landscapes, portraits, etc. Here, full-color UV printing on glass, vinyl film with a pattern, triplex technology, matting, etc. is also allowed. styles, a metal kitchen apron is also suitable. It will turn out a kind of fusion with a perfectly smooth surface, glossy shine.

You can use drawings with a worn effect for a vintage interior, and even a sprig of lilac, green stems, cotton can be placed in tempered glass to create a Provencal style. All finishing options have already been earned positive reviews satisfied customers.

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What can be used to make an apron in the kitchen: a variety of materials

The ingress of water and grease, exposure to steam and mechanical damage - all this threatens the section of the wall between the countertop and the wall cabinets of kitchen furniture. In this area, it is customary to build an "apron" that will protect the surface from aggressive environments and make cleaning much easier. In addition, it plays an important role in the decoration of the premises.

When choosing what to make an apron in the kitchen, it is worth considering both of its functions: protective and decorative. The range of materials on the market is diverse - the buyer can choose a coating for every taste and budget. In addition to the tiles and wall panels that have become familiar, today artificial stone, glass and metal are increasingly used for this purpose.

Classic solutions

The options proven for more than one decade - tiles and wall panels - hold the palm among others. This is due to their familiarity, availability and good protective properties.

Ceramic tile

Tile as a material for kitchen wall cladding needs no introduction. It is practical, durable, resistant to temperature, mechanical and chemical influences. Variety of models of ceramic tiles on modern market allows you to easily select a covering for a room of any style and size.

The disadvantages of tiles are few, but still they are:

• rather high cost of the material and work on its installation;
• labor intensity of the process;
• increased requirements for the walls - they must be flat.

And yet, deciding the question of what is better to make an apron in the kitchen, many people prefer ceramic tiles.

Wall panels

The arrangement of the kitchen wall with panels is also very popular. The cost of such an apron will be significantly lower compared to a tiled one. Hence, one of the drawbacks follows - a somewhat budgetary appearance: a kitchen with such an apron can hardly be called chic. However, for most typical kitchens, wall panels can be a worthy alternative to tiles.

Important! Regardless of the material of manufacture, wall panels have a significant advantage - high speed, simplicity and cleanliness of installation.

Most often, panels are made from the following materials:

• fibreboard (fiberboard);
• chipboard (chipboard);
• finely dispersed fiberboard (MDF);
• plastic.

If the question is, what is better quickly and without extra costs to build a practical kitchen apron, then you should pay attention to the MDF panels. They are not very susceptible to the influence of an aggressive environment, and are easy to maintain and install. The material is not afraid of moisture, heat-resistant and scratch-resistant. In addition, with the help of MDF, it is very easy to ensure the unity of a headset and an apron, since most manufacturers offer panels that match the color of the table top.

Fiberboard and chipboard can also be used for an apron as a more budgetary option compared to MDF. A special coating applied to the surface gives them quite acceptable qualities, allowing these materials to be used in the kitchen. However, they are inferior to MDF in terms of strength, durability and resistance to damage.

The main advantages of wall decoration with plastic panels are cheapness and a large selection of colors. Options for an apron for a kitchen made of PVC are varied, with their help you can recreate the texture of wood, stone or leather, as well as various patterns, including three-dimensional ones. The disadvantages of such an apron are not too high, although acceptable, practicality. Plastic is more susceptible to damage from shock, temperature and abrasive particles, absorbs odors and can fade over time.

Modern materials

Recently, more and more often you can find aprons made of glass, mosaic, artificial stone and even metal. These materials fit perfectly into modern design and have all the properties necessary for finishing a kitchen wall. The general disadvantage of such aprons is very high.

Mosaic

Mosaic is a type of decor consisting of many small elements of the same or different shapes. Such a coating looks spectacular on the apron and brings sophistication and lively notes to the interior. Mosaic can be used to decorate both individual sections of the wall and its entire surface. For a kitchen apron, a ceramic or glass mosaic is most often used. You can read more about these types of cladding here. (Mosaic tiles for the kitchen on the apron).

Fake diamond

Artificial stone has become commonplace as a material for sinks and countertops. It has excellent water-repellent and antibacterial properties, is durable and unpretentious. All these qualities make artificial stone ideal for decorating a kitchen backsplash.

Many manufacturers of furniture, the tabletops of which are made of this material, offer to purchase similar wall covering... Such an apron has no seams, which greatly simplifies maintenance, is easy to assemble and looks very presentable. Its surface can imitate various natural stone or be executed in a single tone.

Of the minuses, the high cost can be noted. In addition, scratches from rough mechanical stress can form on the surface of the apron over time. However, this material is very easy to restore by grinding, and this process does not require dismantling.

Advice! Giving preference to an apron made of artificial stone, it is better to choose textured colors of calm tones. On such surfaces, scuffs and scratches will hardly be noticeable.

Glass

Glass finishing is one of the latest fashion trends in the kitchen. This material is environmentally friendly, resistant to moisture, high temperature and chemicals. Despite the apparent fragility, such an apron is quite reliable, since it is made of tempered glass, which is several times stronger than usual.

Exists different variants glass apron for kitchen:

• transparent - creating invisible protection of the kitchen wall;
• colored - made of painted glass;
• with a textured pattern;
• with a picture on a film applied to the inner surface;
• skinali - panels with photo printing applied to the seamy side;
• mirrored.

The glass apron is easy to install, lasts a long time and looks very impressive. It is easy to care for due to the absence of seams. The only thing that causes frustration is that the price of such a product is quite high.

Another option for using glass for finishing an apron is using glass mosaic... This topic is discussed in detail in a separate article.

Metal

The most exotic type of apron today is metal. It is predominantly made of stainless steel and has the strength and durability of this material. Such an apron is not afraid of anything at all! Water, high temperature, splashes of grease, steam, exposure to cleaning agents, accidental blows - "stainless steel" copes with all kitchen misfortunes with dignity.

Such an apron can be made of a single sheet of steel, which is superimposed on top of the chipboard panel. In this case, it will have one more advantage - the absence of seams. The surface of the sheet can be glossy, matte, textured or decorated with an ornament. In addition, you can decorate the wall with stainless steel tiles or ceramic with a metal surface.

One limitation prevents the widespread use of the material - a metal apron for the kitchen is best suited for a high-tech room. In other cases, such wall decoration is fraught with the "cooling" of the interior and the introduction of a touch of "industry" into it. In addition, the smooth surface of the metal requires constant wiping - stains and splashes are very noticeable on it.

So, the materials for the device of the kitchen apron are varied. Giving preference to one of them, one should proceed from many factors, including the general style of the room, its parameters, the wishes of the owners, as well as the repair budget. More details on how to do right choice, you can read here.

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 the last place, it is the wall above the working area that is often used to place accents in the interior of the kitchen. If you plan to install the apron yourself, then the complexity and duration of installation plays an important role. To make the right choice, you need to choose an option with an optimal balance of all these qualities.

The surface of the wall above the countertop is the most stressed area of ​​the kitchen. Here are located Appliances, work area and gas stove. Not every type of finish is capable of adequately withstanding all types of influences associated with the operation of the kitchen for its intended purpose. Therefore, a number of requirements are imposed on a kitchen apron:

• Resistant to high temperatures. Since the heating of the screen surface is uneven, 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, splashing, steam. Therefore, the apron must be chosen from materials that do not absorb water;
• Ease of cleaning. 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 often, and sometimes intensively, the coating must be resistant to abrasive substances and hard brushes. Micro-scratches and patches of rubbed paint will definitely not decorate the kitchen;
• Security. Environmental cleanliness and the absence of harmful fumes are one of the most important qualities of a kitchen apron, because it can come into contact with food.

There are many materials on the market that fully or partially meet these requirements. Nevertheless, this is a difficult choice that requires taking into account all the features of the installation, the advantages and disadvantages of different types of aprons.

Types of materials for the apron

It is better to decide on the choice of material for the protective screen in the kitchen before installing the headset, since some types of finishes are mounted on a free wall.

Aprons made of solid or large fragments can be fixed after the furniture has been 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 will not be superfluous to treat with primers with an antiseptic to protect against moisture and its inevitable companions - fungus and mold. It is important to separate the electrical wiring in advance and make outlets for the sockets.

When the wall plane is prepared, you can measure the area for the apron and start choosing the most suitable materials. To do this, you can compare their advantages and disadvantages, and also evaluate the possible difficulties during installation.

Tile

The classic version of the backsplash is tiles of different shapes, sizes and designs. It is practical and affordable. Combinations of different shades and tile designs allow you to create unique and beautiful kitchen screens.

Material features

Tiled tiles are a win-win option for decorating an apron. She will always be in fashion and will ensure comfortable and safe operation of the kitchen. The popularity of tiles is due to a number of advantages that distinguish it 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. No wonder it is used for laying 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. Expansion is compensated by the presence short distance between separate elements finishes. But it is important to choose a good adhesive base and grout;
• Long lasting. The service life of the tile backsplash, subject to high-quality installation and glue, is 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 provoke the appearance of mold and mildew. But if you are not stingy and choose a 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.

For laying tiles with your own hands, you will need special tools and materials:

• Glue;
• Serrated spatula;
• Crosses for seams;
• Grout;
• Tile cutter.

Installation can be done in different ways. The simplest is horizontal or vertical, it is best to choose it for self-installation if there are no professional skills. More complex types will require the hands of a specialist: herringbone, offset, diagonally.

Laying must be done before installing the kitchen unit. And since the first row of tiles will not start from the floor, but from the middle of the wall, it is necessary to temporarily install the guide rail.

Ideally, if the size of the tile will be matched exactly to the size of the apron, then it will not have to be cut. But if there are sockets on the plane of the wall, you will need to work with a tile cutter. A tutorial on how to use this tool is presented in the video.

By changing the thickness of the adhesive, it is possible to correct small irregularities in the wall, but not more than 10 mm. A layer greater than this value is not acceptable for wall cladding. The tiles may “float” or fall off due to uneven drying of the adhesive.

It is imperative to insert crosses into the space between the individual fragments, and do not remove them until the composition grasps. Grouting is done only after complete drying.

Mosaic

A mosaic apron will become a bright accent throughout the kitchen. A variety of styling options and element materials are able to provide harmony with design and individuality. But working with this type of finish requires patience, skills and the selection of high-quality glue and grout compound.

Material features

Mosaic has all the advantages of tiles, it is not afraid of moisture and dirt, is resistant to temperatures and mechanical damage, while it has a number of features:

• It is easier to fit around protrusions and outlets;
• Mosaic requires glue white;
• Differs in a wider choice of materials for the production of elements: ceramics, glass, stone, metal, mirror.

The disadvantage of a mosaic is the same as that of a tile - the seams, which in this case are much larger. Only epoxy grout is suitable for sealing them.

Mosaic installation

Elements can be laid in different ways. Designers play with colors and shades, creating real works of art that will definitely be unique.

Types of mosaic laying:

For installation, you will need the same set of tools as for tiles. The adhesive is applied to the wall and to the mosaic panel. The fragment is placed on an 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 on the wall and carefully removed.

Grouting can be started 48 hours after all elements have been installed. The rasters are applied with a rubber spatula and evenly distributed over the surface. After 20 minutes, the excess grout can be removed with a soft cloth.

Glass

Kitchen aprons are made of tempered glass. It is stronger than usual and can withstand high temperatures. Any image, drawing or imitation texture can be placed on such a screen.

Material features

A glass apron is a practical and safe option. Impurities are easily removed from its surface. Tempered glass or triplex (two glasses glued with a film) are resistant to mechanical stress. If, nevertheless, the screen breaks, then in the first case it breaks up into small fragments with non-sharp edges, in the second - the fragments are kept on the film.

To mount the apron, a glass panel is made according to the exact dimensions of the site, so it only remains to fix it. Sutures are often absent.

The image can be applied in different ways, they differ in cost, complexity and practicality.

• Pasting transparent glass with photo wallpaper is inexpensive and quick, but if moisture gets under the glass, the image will be damaged;
• Printing on vinyl is a more reliable option, the film is not afraid of moisture, but over time it can peel off the glass;
• UV printing on glass - durable and high-quality image, resistant to any kind of external influences;
• UV printing inside the laminated glass is the most reliable and expensive option, the image is protected on both sides.

There are practically no disadvantages of this type of apron. This is a beautiful and functional solution. In production, the necessary holes can be made in the glass for kitchen utensils and sockets. Only its high cost can stop choosing this material. Product life depends on the quality of the printed image. Clear frosted glass or printing inside laminated glass can serve indefinitely.

Glass apron installation

The glass apron is installed after the 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 option for fastening, it is used by professionals, but when fixing with bolts, it is important to be extremely careful not to break the panel; decorative caps can be purchased to mask fasteners);
• Canopies (do not require drilling on the glass surface, suitable for small aprons);
• Liquid nails (the easiest way to do it yourself, but the wall surface should be perfectly flat).

It is better to seal the joint of the apron with the wall with a sealant so that moisture does not get into it. All panel holes must be made at the manufacturing stage. You cannot drill the screen yourself.

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)

A compromise option for the design of a kitchen apron is MDF. Plates are affordable and attractive in appearance. But their use is limited, therefore, before choosing this material, it is worthwhile to compare its advantages and disadvantages.

Material features

MDF is widely used in home decoration and furniture assembly. It is also suitable for the kitchen. It does not require a perfect leveling of the wall surface for its installation.

The possibilities of the material are unlimited: it can have any shade and texture, imitate other types of finishes, such as stone and tiles, any image can be applied to the surface using the technique of photo printing.

Installation is quick and easy. The service life of the material is only a few years, but given the low cost, such an apron can be changed often, which will not only get rid of the damaged screen, but also update the familiar kitchen.

MDF aprons are not suitable for a kitchen that is heavily exploited. 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 flaking of the protective coating;
• Abrasives and solvents are not suitable for cleaning MDF;
• The screen surface is less durable than glass and tiles.

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 of the cuts will need to be cut off. It is easy to cut holes for sockets with a jigsaw and drill a plate to accommodate the hooks.

Installation consists in fixing the panel with self-tapping screws or liquid nails to the plane of the wall. If the main surface is uneven, you can pre-place the slats on it and create an ideal plane with them.

PVC panels

The most budgetary option for decorating a kitchen apron is sheathing with PVC panels. They are offered on the market in large quantities and come in a wide range of colors and designs.

Material features

The panels have few advantages. If we compare them with material from the same price category - MDF, then plastic has excellent moisture resistance, but also, like a chipboard, does not tolerate high temperatures and cleaning with abrasives.

In addition to deformation when heated, plastic is highly flammable, emits toxic substances when melted, so there is no place for it above the gas stove. It is good for the work area, where cooking is often done, 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 mounting

For installation, you will need: guiding elements (crate), self-tapping screws, a screwdriver, a stationery knife. The panels are fastened to each other according to the tongue-and-groove system, thus forming absolutely sealed joints.

Installation of panels can be done on any wall with irregularities and defects, the main thing is that there is where to screw the self-tapping screws for the guides.

The lathing is set according to the level. Above and below - guide elements, then vertical crossbars with a step of no more than 60 cm.

The panels are fixed with self-tapping screws to the crate, each subsequent one closes the fixing point of the previous one and the head of the fasteners. Therefore, externally, the apron looks quite presentable. You can cut plastic with a clerical knife or a hacksaw with a fine tooth. All holes must be prepared prior to installation. The edges of the finished apron in height and width, if they are visible, it is necessary to arrange decorative elements, they are sold in the same department as the panels themselves.

Stone

Natural and artificial stone is one of the best materials for a kitchen backsplash in terms of practicality. He possesses all necessary qualities... It is durable and looks expensive and prestigious.

Material features

Such an apron requires the appropriate design of the kitchen. Expensive countertops and exquisite facades will keep him worthy. For the production of screens use different types stone. 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, while it has the same properties. But it is devoid of pores, therefore it does not absorb moisture and is better cleaned of impurities. It is lighter and can be made thinner. The durability of these materials is unmatched by any other.

Installation of a stone apron

Stone products are most often made to order according to individual sizes... Installation must be done after the furniture has been installed.

If the stone looks like a tile, then it can be laid with your own hands, according to the same scheme as the ceramic one. It is better to entrust the installation of a one-piece panel to professionals, since the material is expensive, and if you install it yourself, without working 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 the installation of the headset, here it is important to take into account the height of the lower cabinets, and the floor covering and the layout of the furniture. How to do it correctly is presented in the video.

When choosing an apron for the kitchen, it is still not its appearance that is more important, 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 color solutions and design options.

Ceramic tiles are one of the best and most popular materials for decorating a kitchen backsplash. But far from the only one. Let's deal with the pros and cons of alternative materials - wall panels, skinned (tempered glass). And with the nuances of laying out a tiled apron that you might not have guessed about.

1. Laminated wall panel

For whom:

• for those who want quick changes in the kitchen without messy repairs.
• for those who renovate the kitchen in super economy mode;
• for tenants of apartments in the style of "grandmother's chic", when it is important to close the old apron in the kitchen, and the owner does not agree to expensive repairs;

Price: from 1500 rub. for the panel 301x60 cm in Leroy Merlin; from 2000 rub. per panel 120x55 cm at IKEA.

A rich palette, including a stone, wood, tile, with the possibility of ordering fantasy patterns; are matte and glossy, textured. Usually laminated panels are ordered as a companion for laminated countertops - they are made in one color.

Budget material; the price is comparable to the cost of inexpensive ceramic tiles.

It is very easy to install and dismantle - no need to "dilute the dirt". And tired - you can replace it literally in an hour. You can glue directly on top of the old tile (if the thickness does not interfere), you will not need to cook the surface in any special way.

It is a sheet material and may not be of sufficient size. At large size in the kitchen, joints will inevitably appear, which (at best) will be decorated with an aluminum profile, as in the photo. Unlike the tile seam, it is obtrusively striking and is not always aligned with the line of the upper and lower cabinets.

- For the joint in the corner, metal corner guides are used. It is also better to close the end of the panel with a metal plate to 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 a gas stove. Only if the stove has a cover (and it is she who, when raised, will protect the wall) - this option is possible. But in kitchens with hobs without a protective cover, it is better to choose other materials.

Fact: The width of a sheet of a laminated panel rarely exceeds 60 cm. If you need to put the apron behind the hood, a horizontal joint may form.

2. Artificial stone wall panel

For whom: for those who are looking for a variant of 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 wall panels made of chipboard). Price: from 3000 rubles. per p.m; depends on the brand and composition of the 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, not brought to the upper cabinets.

The artificial stone wall panel is glued and sanded in such a way that no joints are visible - for any length of the kitchen. + Repairable: artificial stone is restored to its original appearance by simple grinding.

- The material is produced and bright colors, but it is always monochromatic or has various types of stone inclusions. The texture can hardly be called "rich".

- Such a panel costs at least twice as expensive as a laminated wall panel.

3. Flexible veneer (artificial stone in veneer, flexible stone)

For whom: for those who need the texture of 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 with a thickness of 1–2.5 mm, a polymer binder and a textile base. In the photo - spruce veneer based on Corian.

Flexible veneer is almost indistinguishable from the original in appearance.

To be repaired locally.

Easy to assemble without specialist assistance.

- A limited number of shades.

- Requires special care due to its hygroscopicity: treatment with 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 instead of an apron (covered with glass);
• for those looking for a long-lasting apron with no seams but with a non-speckled / stone-like pattern.

Price: from 5000 rub. per sq. m

Fast installation option.

The ability to make any color and apply any pattern, you can make it 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 on special fasteners, and if the wall is uneven, the glass can crack.

- The glossy glass surface requires constant maintenance.

5. Boiserie: wood wall panel

For whom:

• for those who want to visually extend the headset 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.

Price: comparable to the price of an artificial stone and depends on the manufacturer.

Boiserie is a modular structure consisting of narrow panels of different heights, mounted in a groove. For installation, external and inner corners as well as end elements. Boiserie panels are often used in combination with artificial stone, for example for decorative finishing buffet areas.

A beautiful option for an interior that flows into a residential one.

Boiserie can be ordered in unexpected finishes - 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 variegated decors and gloss;
• for owners of a small kitchen.

Price: from 2000 rub. per sq. m

A wide variety of sizes and shapes: from squares and rectangles to circles, pebbles.

A variety of materials used: glass, ceramics, stone, metal, wood.

Supplied in sheets of approx. 30x30 cm for easy installation.

Can be used on radius elements.

The ability to cut the sheet and use undercuts.

- High consumption of grout.

- Some elements can be displaced or peeled 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 an apron will not cause difficulties.

Price: from 1000 rubles. per sq. m - consists of the cost of tiles, grouting and installation services.

+ It is rich in patterns, formats, so you can achieve various effects by styling or choosing a bright collection.

You can choose both expensive and budget tiles.

Not sheet material. No need to cut and work with large parts.

- Requires care and accuracy when laying out, skill from the tiler. - Assumes dirt to be repaired.

- Possible overpayment for extra meters when buying tiles in boxes.

What is important when laying a tile backsplash

1. Choose a suitable format

In a small kitchen, a large format will look out of place, as in a spacious one - a small mosaic. The most economical to work with is the medium format. If you compare the price of stacking, the smaller 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 (which means unnecessary expenses). But an apron made of large-format tiles is easier to keep clean: there are fewer seams and a chance that fungus will start in them. Tip: Order the kitchen first. You just need to order - in this case, you will finally decide on the project and will no longer change anything. When you pay for the furniture order and get your hands on a project with dimensions, you will clearly understand which zones will be tiled and what area they get. And then you can more accurately calculate the consumption of tiles (and afford more expensive collections).

2. Determine the size

The fact is that 60 cm is not the only possible size of a backsplash for a tile kitchen. The first is the apparent size (the actual size must be larger). And secondly, in order not to get the effect “we didn’t have enough money,” the tiles should be behind the hood and “somewhere above,” behind open shelves.

How to determine the minimum size of a tile backsplash

Linear kitchen

We are looking for the proposed lower border of the apron for the beginning of the day (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 border of the apron, add 65 cm to the sum of the heights of the base and the frame.It turns out that the apparent height of the apron is 60 cm from the table top to wall cabinets... And another 3 cm will be at the bottom of the wall cabinets. We put the tiles on all open surfaces where there are no cabinets, but add 5 cm to each side.For example, if a dome-type hood 90 cm wide is provided in the kitchen, and the distance between the cabinets is the size of the hood, then the tiles must be laid out to a width of 1 meter. If the kitchen ends with a refrigerator or pencil case, then we continue the apron by 5 cm behind it.

Corner kitchen

If we are talking about corner layout, then along one of the walls we get a visible abutment of the end of the cabinets to the wall. And the tile inserted under them will create a visible gap (since the tile has a thickness). For corner kitchen I advise you to count the end of the kitchen on the cupboards - not on the countertop. That is, you should not wind the apron under top row... The second important nuance - take into account the thickness of the tiles when laying on another wall: it can happen that it will annoyingly go 1 cm beyond the boundaries of the headset just because you did not take into account the thickness of the coating on the next wall.

For a corner kitchen, the calculation is as follows: we find the upper border (where the cabinets begin and the apron ends), from it we count down 60 cm and add a margin of 5-10 cm. Tip: Think about the symmetry and beauty of styling. For example, you can lay out the tiles symmetrically with respect to the hood, sink or other central element of the headset. Ideally, when furniture and tiles come to the door trim (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 uspor

Option one: we do not 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 put the tiles outside the boundaries of the lower cabinets and upper wall cabinets. But to what depth? It all depends on the format of the tiles. If it is a large format, you can lay out tiles from the bottom to the top of the kitchen along the depth of the lower cabinets. If the average, you can lay out the apron to the depth of the lower cabinets, as in the example in this photo. If the tiles are small, 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 a sidewall of a technical box, it can be tiled completely. And in order to save money, choose a companion tile to the main tile on the apron.

When to break the rules

If you lay out the apron with small-format tiles (for example, honeycombs), you can not start the tiles behind the upper cabinets, but "cut off" it without cutting. This will create an original uneven edge. Leaving in working area without a sink and a stove, you can reduce the number of rows of tiles, reduce them to nothing or make a "stretch", skipping more and more tiles, and finally cancel them out.

In order not to lose in practicality, decorate the spaces of the tiles with decorative plaster and cover with a special protective compound. Tip: If the slab is far enough from the end wall (as in the photo), the tiles can only be laid along the main wall, leading it behind the cabinets and the hood. Important:Remember to lay the tiles behind the sink cabinet and behind the dishwasher and washing machine. To do this, you can take any budget tile or trim from an apron tile.

12 options for a kitchen apron made of scrap materials are very budgetary, easy and fast! They are all simple, cheap, and can be made (or removed) in literally minutes, making them ideal for renters or anyone looking to change their backsplash.

And so we will analyze what to make an apron for the kitchen and what materials are used for installation.

Such panels allow you to conveniently place the necessary kitchen utensils by hanging them in any place you choose on the wall.

• you need to attach the panels to the walls,
• and then insert hooks from the store into the holes household appliances, and their location can be constantly changed depending on your needs.

Apron from photo frames

To make an apron in the form of a photo gallery, you need:

• thin piece of plywood,
• covered with a cloth, onto which small nails are nailed (or screws are screwed in)
• and in Frames with photos are available.

And the small gallery in the kitchen is ready!

Apron made of paper or card

See how an apron made from a glued map of the world matches perfectly with white kitchen furniture. A really easy way to make your kitchen original! How to do:

1. Cut off thin piece of plywood to the exact size of the wall, glue the paper on top,
2. and then apply varnish(so that the paper does not get wet from moisture and steam in the kitchen).
3. When it's dry, stick the plywood to the wall.

They used cards here, but you could use wrapping paper, comics, magazine covers, whatever.

Can you attach frequently used recipes to the kitchen wall, this will save you from having to look for them when needed, and will bring an interesting touch to the kitchen design. You can also attach your favorite quotes or poems.

Vinyl oilcloth

A vintage white tablecloth with a blue floral pattern will help create a charming kitchen apron. The kitchen immediately becomes sweeter and more cozy.

Apron made of wood or MDF

Wood planks add a rustic touch. To make such an apron, you need a thin piece of plywood exactly to the size of the wall. All boards are cut to the desired length and attached to the plywood, and then the whole thing is screwed to the wall.

How to do it yourself:

1. To create such an apron, the wooden boards were painted white,
2. and then cut into equal pieces (as large as tiles).
3. After that, all the tiles are attached to a thin piece of plywood to fit the wall, and then the plywood is attached to the wall.

And one more option for stencil painting:

Also the painted walls can be decorated additional elements decor. For example, this kitchen apron was painted using stencils, and then hearts were glued on top, which go wonderfully with the chosen pattern:

Like a tiled pattern but don't want to go into tiling? Then try variants of its imitation. For example, here's a wonderful example of a painted white tile. All you need is paint and accurate wall markings.

Tile

Create a mosaic apron with your own design using small tiles in different colors. For example, in this case, a dark brown floor tile was needed.

You can also create a mosaic pattern by breaking large tiles into smaller pieces before attaching them to the wall. The result is similar to the previous one, but more chaotic, without clear lines.

If you like more strict shapes and colors, then pay attention to this combination of small tiles in white, brown and gray:

When using very small tiles, it seems that the colors pass into each other, shimmer. In the example in the photo, a dark color scheme was chosen, but you can experiment with such tiles even with the brightest colors.

The shape of the tile has a great influence on the result, for example, by taking a hexagonal tile instead of a square one, the original effect is immediately achieved. It is especially good to take a hexagonal tile, which has some color transitions, like here from white to gray:

With the help of tiles, you can also achieve a 3D effect. To do this, lay the tiles not side by side in a joint, but going on top of each other, creating volume. For example, as in this case:

Kitchen renovation should be taken most seriously, because this is the place where the hostess will spend a lot of time. Accordingly, the kitchen should be comfortable, functional and, most importantly, beautiful. It is about its design that we will now talk about, to be more precise, about the design of a small but important part of the kitchen - the apron.

For what purpose does it serve and what is it? An apron is the resulting distance between the top cabinet and the countertop. During the cooking process, this place is exposed to various contaminants: fat, water, hot steam, etc. For this reason, the apron should be made of practical material that can be conveniently washed from any kind of contamination. However, in addition to protecting against dirt, the apron is one of the main decorations in the interior of the kitchen. Therefore, for its manufacture, it is required to choose the most suitable type of finishing material. Before that, it is important to decide on its design, and then decide which apron to make in the kitchen.

Kitchen apron design and color

Big choice building materials allows you to make an apron in a variety of designs. The selected material should be easy to clean and, most importantly, last for many years. For some, it is fundamental to choose a color of the apron that would be close to the color of the kitchen walls. However, according to the recommendations of leading designers, it is not at all necessary to adhere to this rule. There are two reasons why the color of the apron can match the wall:

• If the hostess wants to have a kitchen in a neutral tone, for example, cream, sand, light gray, light beige, etc.
• If the tone of the wall where the apron is installed will be different from other walls.

Although you can choose the tone of the apron based on the color of the furniture set, this is not necessary. For example, you can play with contrast, which will make this part of the kitchen spectacular. Here are some options for choosing colors and combinations with furniture.

• If you want a white kitchen, then in this case it is best to use facing material bright color. White itself is boring, but if you combine it with bright, the picture will change dramatically. It should be noted that a white kitchen allows you to broaden your creative horizons. At the same time, to create a bright accent, you can additionally use all possible accessories of the same color. On the other hand, a large number of bright inserts can make the kitchen funny and ridiculous.
• A beige kitchen, like white, allows you to play in contrast, revive the walls and interior. The effect of a beige kitchen will be given by a panel apron, which in color, texture or pattern will be similar to the countertop. In another case, you can push off from the color of the cabinet fronts.
• But what if the kitchen is in blue? Then the original solution would be to use an apron. gray... To "warm up", so to speak, a cold blue color, you can use a light coffee, beige or cream apron color. One of these options will be the best solution.
• If you like tones of green or light green, then the apron can be matched to the color of the kitchen furniture. Moreover, it is not necessary to repeat the shade. You can make it lighter a few tones. And if you want to make a discreet island in living greenery, then use cream, beige, white or gray tones for this.

In general, there are neutral colors that are combined with the entire palette. For example, it can be white, gray, cream. Here are just some examples of how to design an apron as part of the interior.

Mainly build on your vision. If you choose a neutral tone, then even with a possible change of furniture, you will not have to replace it.

So, now let's look at seven examples of what to make an apron in the kitchen.

7 finishes on the road to excellence!

Option number 1: ceramic tiles

We can say that ceramic tiles are the most common and affordable option for finishing the apron. What is the reason for this? Mainly - high resistance to changes in temperature, chemicals and moisture. This material is durable, and after years it does not lose its luster. Its advantage is a large selection of shades and colors, and some manufacturers provide all kinds of collections. Thanks to this, it is possible to complement the apron with decorations and panels. Also for more adventurous people, there is an option for photo printing on ceramics. This allows you to make the decoration more sophisticated. On the other hand, the installation of tiles is accompanied by some complications. For example, this process can take a long time, provided that you do not have the skills. Moreover, if after a while you want to change the interior of the kitchen, then replacing the apron will not be easy - this will entail a number unpleasant consequences... For this reason, it is worth considering six other kitchen backsplash finishing methods before opting for ceramic tiles.

Option number 2: MDF panels

If you want to make an apron quickly and easily, then MDF panels are presented to your attention. It should be noted that this material in the price category is quite affordable for many, unlike other finishing methods. MDF panels are quick and easy to assemble. However, before installation, the surface of the walls must be leveled. You can fix MDF with liquid nails or using a special frame. Moreover, if after a while you want to change the apron, then it will be easy to replace them.

Very quickly, persistent grease or chemicals can spoil the overall appearance of the apron. As a result, the panel will warp. Moreover, MDF is a combustible material.

Option number 3: glass

Glass is rarely used as a backsplash trim. But at the same time, it is a new and evolving fashion trend. There are several options for such finishes, thanks to which you can make a real work of art. For example, photo printing applied directly to glass using sandblasting technology. Thus, exquisite and varied aprons are created. The advantage of this technology lies in the seamless surface. This prevents permanent accumulation of dirt and grease at the docking points. The glass itself is easy to clean and resistant to chemicals. Again, on the other hand, this technology is very expensive and it is almost impossible to make a glass apron with your own hands. And if you get tired of the image, then it will take a lot of labor to replace it. A clear drawback is that fat and splashes of water will be clearly visible on the glass, so you will have to constantly wash the apron.

Option number 4: mosaic

Of course, mosaic is the most effective, rich, original method of finishing a kitchen backsplash. Each mosaic apron is unique in its own way. Why? It can be made from finished panels in the form of tiles, from pieces of broken tiles or glass. Based on this, it is almost difficult to repeat the design of a mosaic apron. It should be noted that mosaics have the same positive characteristics as ceramic tiles. But it has more benefits. From the mosaic, you can make a beautiful image that will delight the eye for many years. For its installation, it is required to perform a series preparatory work... A perfectly flat surface is essential. An apron made of mosaic will have a large number of seams, for this reason, the selection of grout for the joints must be extremely serious. Otherwise, due to poor-quality grouting, very soon the mosaic apron will turn into gray spot on the kitchen.

Option number 5: plastic

A budget option is to use PVC panels. On the other hand, plastic has a long service life, retaining its appearance throughout it. As for caring for him, everything is also simple here. The plastic surface is easy to clean with conventional chemicals. However, plastic has one negative characteristic that makes it risky to use as an apron. PVC panels are flammable and can also be easily scratched. Therefore, consider these factors when choosing a finishing material.

Option number 6: mirror

Like glass aprons, mirrored aprons refer to original finishing solutions. It is especially practical to use a mirror in small kitchens, as the reflection visually enlarges the space. Moreover, specially prepared glass for the apron will serve for many years, and its maintenance is very simple. On the other hand, however, the use of glass can lead to other problems. The kitchen is a place with high humidity, especially when preparing food. Therefore, the mirror can constantly fog up, and traces and spots will remain on the surface. Therefore, after each preparation of food, the hostess will have to wipe the surface of the apron.

Option number 7: metal

One of the innovative options for finishing a kitchen apron is rightfully the use of metal. If the kitchen is decorated in a high-tech style, then a metal apron will fit perfectly into it. As for the price, it is quite comprehensible, and the advantages of metal are known to everyone: durability, resistance to fire, chemical influences, etc. However, stains and all kinds of streaks will always be visible on it, so it will have to be constantly wiped off. Although this is not a big problem. The difficulty lies elsewhere. The metal is cold enough in appearance, so its use should be thought out as carefully as possible.

Is it a matter of taste or a tribute to fashion?

So, for judgment, seven options for finishing a kitchen apron are presented. Which apron to choose for the kitchen is up to you. Most importantly, stick to the overall interior of the kitchen and also rely on your taste. After all, you can make it fashionable, but in fact there will be no look. Therefore, analyze each type of kitchen aprons directly for your case. Be spontaneous and strive for individuality. Then your kitchen will be truly functional, beautiful and moderately fashionable.

Most importantly, choose the method that allows you to make your own apron. We will be glad to hear your opinion on this or that type of apron. You may be familiar with other finishing techniques. Then share them with us by leaving your comments on this article! Perhaps your ideas will inspire someone to new achievements!

Video

In this video, you will learn how to decorate an apron with decorative 3D panels.