Stumped By Your Splashback Choices? Here’s How to Choose Between Glass and Stone Splashbacks

If you want to refresh the look of your kitchen or bathroom, a splashback can be a great choice. Even if you don't make any other changes to the room, a splashback adds a unique visual element that can give new life to your kitchen or bathroom. The only problem that you might have is choosing between two of the most popular bathroom and kitchen splashback options, glass tiles and natural stone tiles. Here's what you should know about each before making a choice.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are a popular splashback option for several reasons, including: 

  • Easy cleaning

​Glass tile is very easy to clean -- you don't even need specialised cleaning formulas. A half vinegar and half lukewarm water mixture can be wiped on and off using a soft cotton cloth. Alternatively, you can use a standard glass cleaner.

  • Mould and mildew resistant

Because glass isn't very porous, it resists mould and mildew quite well. Because mould and mildew can so easily develop in potentially damp environments like the bathroom and the kitchen, these rooms are a good fit for a non-porous tile like glass. 

  • Stain resistant:

As mentioned above, glass tiles aren't very porous, which means that they're also stain resistant. Something like a splash of hair dye in the shower could potentially cause permanent stains on a porous tile like natural stone, but on glass tiles you won't need to worry as long as you wipe it up straight away.

Whilst glass does offer some significant advantages, many people feel that it doesn't have the same visual impact as natural stone tiles. Additionally, glass tiles may be more fragile than natural stone, as an impact could easily crack a tile.

Natural Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles are equally as popular as glass tiles for splashbacks, but for different reasons. These reasons include:

  • The appearance

Nothing quite matches the appearance of natural stone tiles. They're elegant whilst still looking completely natural. 

  • The flexibility

Natural stone tiles are available in a variety of types and styles. Sandstone, limestone, slate are all unique looking options that can fit nearly any kitchen or bathroom decor. You can choose colours ranging from very light tan to a deep black.

  • The longevity

Natural stone tiles have great longevity, especially if you have your splashback professionally sealed with a protective coating at the time of installation. 

Although natural stone tiles are certainly beautiful and impressive looking, they do have the drawback of being naturally porous. Most experts recommend that you have any natural stone splashback sealed to deter mould and mildew. You'll need to have the splashback resealed periodically as well. Natural stone is also generally more costly than glass tiles. 

Consider the pros and cons of both glass and stone to make your choice easy! Once you've made the decision between glass and natural stone splashback tiles, contact your contractor to get started on your plans straight away.


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