The splashback is one of the most functional areas in the kitchen. It protects the wall from moisture, grease and steam, whilst also setting the tone for the entire interior. Among the modern materials used for kitchen splashbacks, the following are increasingly popular: porcelain stoneware. Let’s take a look at what makes it good and where there might be some caveats 👇
What is porcelain stoneware?
Porcelain stoneware is a dense and durable engineered stone made from clay and mineral additives under high pressure and at high temperatures. It can imitate:
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natural stone 🪨
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concrete
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tree 🌳
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metal
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marble
Modern technology makes it possible to produce tiles of any size, from small squares to large panels.
The benefits of porcelain stoneware on a splashback ✅
1️⃣ Durability
Porcelain stoneware is resistant to mechanical damage, scratches and impacts. It does not crack under normal use.
2️⃣ Resistance to moisture and vapour 💧
The material does not absorb water, so it is not affected by condensation or frequent contact with water.
3️⃣ Easy to look after 🧽
Porcelain stoneware is easy to clean using standard cleaning products and does not require any special solutions or impregnating treatments.
4️⃣ A wide range of designs 🎨
You can choose any colour, texture or imitation of natural materials. Porcelain stoneware suits any style, from minimalist to classic.
5️⃣ Heat resistance
The material is heat-resistant, so it is safe to use near the hob.
Disadvantages of porcelain stoneware ⚠️
1️⃣ Installation difficulty
Laying large tiles can be tricky, especially if you’re inexperienced. You need to take precise measurements and use high-quality adhesive.
2️⃣ Heavyweight
Particularly large panels require secure fastening and careful handling.
3️⃣ Stiffness
Porcelain stoneware is a hard material, so an impact against it may cause chipping or cracking.
4️⃣ Price
High-quality porcelain stoneware and its installation are more expensive than standard tiles or PVC panels.
5️⃣ Seams
If tiles are used rather than a single panel, there will be joints that need to be sealed.
When porcelain stoneware is the best choice 🏆
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a kitchen in a contemporary or industrial style;
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High strength and durability are important;
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I would like a surface that is resistant to moisture and high temperatures;
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there is a desire to imitate stone, concrete or metal without using the actual heavy materials;
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The room is small, and I’d like to use large, seamless panels (made to measure).
Tips for choosing porcelain stoneware for your splashback 🛠️
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Choose tiles that are 6–10 mm thick to ensure durability;
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Large-format panels create the effect of a seamless surface and have fewer joints;
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use high-quality adhesive and grout;
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bear in mind how it will look alongside the kitchen units, worktop and floor;
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If the kitchen is small, it’s best to go for light colours to make the space look bigger.
Bottom line 🏁
Porcelain stoneware on the splashback is a stylish and durable solution that will last for many years and protect the walls from moisture and dirt.
It is ideal for those who value durability, a modern design and ease of maintenance, but it requires careful fitting and involves a small installation cost.
If you choose the right colour, size and texture, porcelain stoneware will make your kitchen not only practical but also incredibly striking 😊
