A glass splashback can add that glamorous finishing touch to any kitchen as they come in a multiple of styles and colours. Even the shape and finished textures can be changed to suit specific desires, everything from matt and gloss to frosted and even a metallic look.
Fixing a glass splashback
There are two ways to fix a glass splashback into place; adhesive fixings and screw fixings. For the latter is it best to ensure that the glass is toughened in order to withstand the holes for the screw fixings without shattering. While screw fixings is probably the most secure way of fixing the glass in place it is also the trickier way of doing so.
Firstly, no matter how you wish to fix the glass against the desired wall, it is best to ensure that every dimension is measured perfectly before even attempting to fit it. The last thing that you want to happen is to have the perfect glass splashback, to know just how it should be fitted only to find that it does not fit.
All sockets and switches should be measured exactly proportionate before being cut out to fit around the fixtures effortlessly. If choosing to fix the splashback with screw fixings then the points need to be measured perfectly also before being drilled out.
Before you fix the splashback there are a few tasks that need to be done in order to prepare the wall.
Preparing your wall
You will need to make sure that any and all wallpaper is removed, any flaking paint is scraped off and sanded down and that the surface itself is flat. The glass will not bend around any bumps in the surface so ensure that the wall is 100% smooth, replastering if the wall needs it.
Once the wall is smooth it should be completely clean of any loose material, dirt or grease. If the wall is not completely clean, there is the chance that whatever is left there will still be able to be seen through the glass. Worse still it could affect how secure the glass splashback is fixed against the wall.
One of the last preparation steps is one of the most important; sealing along the back of the worktops. Using a suitable silicone based sealer, seal along the back of any worktop surfaces. This step means that if any water or moisture penetrates this then it will not be allowed to travel down the back of any worktops and behind your units.
In addition, if you are using adhesive to fix to a bare plastered or plaster boarded surface then you will need to seal it first. This will allow the adhesive to stick much better as the porous nature of both plaster and plasterboard won’t suck too much moisture from the adhesive and it will be allowed to dry out naturally.
Now with all the prep out of the way you can work on actually fixing the glass splashback into place. If you are fixing it by using adhesive then firstly you need to ensure that the splashback lines up perfectly to every aspect of your kitchen wall area. Once you are perfectly happy with its placement, remove the splashback and place it front down on to the worktop surface or another flat and stable surface. Your splashback will need to rest against something while the adhesive dries. A simple batten fixed into the wall, if the splashback has nothing to rest the bottom edge on, will do the trick.
Apply the adhesive to the rear of the glass in dollops. Each dollop will need to be roughly 20 – 30mm in size and they will need to be spaced about 80mm apart. Also ensure that the dollops around the edge of the glass are set in about 40mm as when it is pushed against the wall these will spread out and you don’t want them spilling out from around the edges.
For the next step you may need an extra pair of hands, with the adhesive applied, position the splash back up to the wall and, using a clean cloth, rub gently over the surface applying a little pressure. However, not too much pressure, be careful not to crack it. Rub the cloth over the entire splashback to ensure that every inch is covered with the adhesive. If there are any gaps, pull it off the wall and add some more to that area.
Now all you have to do is wait for the adhesive to set and remove any blocks then your glass splashback is the new perfect addition to your kitchen.
For those using screw fixings, the first step is the same as before ensuring that the splashback fits its desired location. Once the fit is confirmed, place the glass back up to the wall and using a pencil, make a mark in the centre of all the fixing points on the wall so that you know where to drill them. Before attempting to drill suitable sized holes to the required depth ensure that the splashback is in a safe secure place.
Fixing your glass splashback to the wall
Once the holes have been drilled Place a wall plug in each hole ready to take the screw. Now, put the splashback back up to the wall. This is the point where you need another pair of hands, to hold the glass in place while you secure it.
Starting at any edges, screw in each fixing screw. Take time and care with fixing the screws in place. Do not use an electric drill to do this as you run the risk of cracking the glass. Tighten until the screw head is sitting snugly in the hole in the glass and there is no movement. Once every screw is in position add any other fixings you have to cover the screw heads and your glass splashback is perfect.
The final job to complete, regardless of the fixings used is to apply a thin bead of sealant around all edges including the base and sockets using a suitable sealant and applicator gun. For that flawless finishes clear sealant is the best. To get a nice, crisp edge and suitable professional look to the whole job, wet your finger and run it over each bead wiping off any excess.
Blog Uploaded: 24th August 2015