In The Field: Fascinating Facts About Construction And Contractors

Glass is becoming a very popular choice for splashbacks in kitchens and bathrooms today. If you're thinking about glass splashbacks for your home, you might wonder if it's safe and why you should choose it in the first place. Note a few questions about glass splashbacks here and then discuss this option with a contractor if you need more information.

1. What are the advantages of glass splashbacks versus other materials?

For one thing, it's very easy to recycle glass if you should ever decide to change your mind about your splashback or need to have it replaced. It's not likely that the glass will wind up in a landfill when it can be easily ground up and added to new glass materials. Certain materials like laminate tile might be more difficult to recycle and therefore more likely to simply be tossed out.

Glass is also nonporous so it may offer more protection against bacteria and other harmful substances that are present in kitchens and bathrooms. Glass splashbacks are also typically not installed with grout; the glass pieces are attached to a type of net backing, and this backing is adhered to your wall. This too means less dirt and grime that would usually be caught on grout.

2. Is the glass okay to use around heat?

The glass used for splashbacks is not the same material used for drinking glasses and other items that are not safe around heat. Splashbacks are typically made from tempered glass that is very tough and which withstands very high temperatures, making it safe to use behind your oven or stovetop.

3. Do the colors fade over time?

Because the process of coloring glass is done while the glass is being created versus having a coat of paint or other such material added to the surface of the glass, it's unlikely that the color will ever fade or change over time. This is true even if the glass is exposed to heat, cleaning solutions, and the like.

4. Is there special prep work involved in applying glass splashbacks?

Glass is not necessarily heavier than tile or other materials so that you would need to worry about bracing up the wall where it will be applied, and while the surface may need to be made level and even, this is often typical of applying any type of splashback. If you're worried about residue from adhesive, an uneven wall space, or have other concerns about the area where the splashback will be applied, discuss these with a contractor, but you can usually expect no more prep work with glass than you would with any other material.

For more information, contact Moorabbin Glass or a similar company.