What is Acrylic Splashback?

When selecting a splashback for your kitchen or laundry, an acrylic splashback is one option that is well with considering—but what is acrylic splashback and how can you know if it’s the right option to suit your purposes?

Before you settle on a decision, there are a few things you should know about acrylic splashback, so here goes…

Key Summary

Acrylic splashback is a rigid, coloured or transparent plastic splashback material that is a more affordable alternative to a glass splashback.

 

What is Acrylic Splashback?

Constructed from a lightweight material called polymethyl methacrylate, acrylic splashback is a strong and durable material that is often considered the more affordable alternative to a glass or tiled splashback.

A popular choice for kitchens and laundries, acrylic splashback is typically produced in large sheets and cut to exact specifications to create a clean and streamlined finish. Usually transparent in appearance, acrylic splashback can also be coloured or printed to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Glass Vs Acrylic Splashback: How Do They Compare?

The very similar appearance of toughened glass and acrylic splashback often makes it difficult for homeowners to decide which option will best suit them—however, there are some very significant differences between each option. 

Here’s an overview of how each option compares:

Affordability

Affordability is one of the key benefits of opting for acrylic splashback instead of a glass splashback. Glass splashback will often cost upwards of $300 per square metre, whereas you can generally expect to pay within the vicinity of $250 per square meter for acrylic splashback. 

Durability

Acrylic is typically stronger and more impact resistant than glass, however, acrylic may be more prone to cracking over time. 

Heat-resistance

Glass is the stronger performer in terms of heat. While glass can comfortably withstand temperatures up to 400°C, acrylic will only be able to withstand temperatures up to around 160°C. Glass is also inflammable. In contrast, acrylic could become flammable when exposed to very high temperatures. For this reason, acrylic splashback should never be installed directly behind cooktops (see below for more information).

Scratch-resistance

Toughened glass tends to be more resistant to scratches than acrylic. However, scuffs and scratches on an acrylic splashback can usually be buffed out quite easily, while glass may be more difficult to repair.

Cleaning

The smooth, non-porous surfaces of both glass and acrylic make them very easy to clean by simply wiping them down with a damp cloth and general-purpose cleaning agent.

Installation

Both glass and acrylic are cut to specification off-site, meaning they should arrive ready to be installed. Acrylic is much lighter than glass (around half the weight), making it much easier to install. Acrylic can also be altered after installation if needed, however, you typically can’t make any changes to a glass splashback after it has been made.

Luxury and aesthetics

Glass is typically viewed as a more luxurious material compared to acrylic splashback, however, they do share a very similar appearance. If you want to emulate the luxurious look of glass for a lesser cost, acrylic can be a more cost-effective way to achieve a similar aesthetic.

Is Acrylic Splashback a Good Option in Kitchens?

The easy-to-clean nature of acrylic splashback can make it a very attractive option for kitchens, however, a major downside of acrylic splashback is that it doesn’t perform well when exposed to very high temperatures. For this reason, acrylic splashback should never be installed directly behind a cooktop or other heat-producing source.

If you do want to install an acrylic splashback behind a cooktop, you will need to ensure a 200mm tall layer of stone, tiles or stainless steel is included at the base of the splashback to provide adequate heat protection. Your builder should be able to provide additional advice about installing acrylic splashback in a kitchen.

Can You Choose the Colour of an Acrylic Splashback?

Acrylic splashback is a popular option because of the variety of designs and colour options it’s available in. 

Most acrylic splashback suppliers offer customers the choice between a standard colour range and various metallic or pearlescent colour options. Some also provide colour-matching services, allowing you to select the exact hue you would like to use to compliment your cabinetry, benchtop or other finishes perfectly.

If you’re the bold type, some suppliers even offer printed splashbacks featuring an image or artwork. This can be a great option if you want to create a bespoke, one-of-a-kind space that is highly personalised.

Planning a Kitchen or Laundry Renovation? We’d Love to Chat!

If you’re planning a kitchen or laundry renovation, the team at Mint Kitchens would love to hear from you!

With more than 30 years of experience renovating kitchens, laundries and bathrooms across Melbourne, we understand renovations better than most. We’ll show you all the options and walk you through the benefits of each to help you find the perfect design to suit your lifestyle, budget and personal preferences.

Find out more about Mint kitchen renovations

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