DIY kitchen apron on the wall. How and from what to make a kitchen apron with your own hands

The main purpose of an apron in the kitchen is to keep the walls pristinely clean and easy to clean from the inevitable splashes of grease and water. There are several options for doing it, but in this article we will talk about kitchen apron from tiles, since it is easiest to do it yourself.

The apron should cover the area of ​​the walls above the work area from the countertop to the wall cabinets (as a rule, this is at least 60 cm), and go slightly under the countertop. It should be done above the stove up to the level of the hood.

If you haven't bought a kitchen set yet, do the calculation directly based on the marks on the wall. Knowing the dimensions of the selected tiles and the area of ​​the apron, it will not be difficult to calculate required amount by drawing up a drawing. But you need to buy the material with a margin of 10-15%, in any case there will be defects, uneven cuts and cutouts for sockets.

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Features of a tile apron

First of all, familiarize yourself with the features of this material. Many would not use tiles for a backsplash if they knew all its pros and cons in advance.

• The tile itself is quite easy to clean from grease using special means. But since after installation, seams of 1.5-2 mm are formed, dirt will constantly get into them, which will be very difficult to get out of there. At the same time, wall tiles cannot be laid without seams, so you are guaranteed to have problems when washing the backsplash. Based on this, the main recommendation is to use only smooth glossy tiles without relief for the apron, and try to keep the seams small ( minimum thickness crosses that are on sale - 1 mm).
• The next disadvantage is that a tile apron is the most labor-intensive of all other options. You need to have experience in installation and think in advance about how to close the pipes and where to make sockets.
• The main advantage of this option is low price and durability. But if you take into account the cost of work and Additional materials for preparation - this is not the most profitable option.

Preparatory stage

As you can see in the photo, a tile of 27*40 cm was chosen. The visible part of the apron will be equal to 65 cm, and 3 rows of tiles will give a total of 81 cm.

The decision on how to place the apron - from the tabletop level or below - must be made depending on the tile pattern, so as not to disturb it. In our case, we purchased a collection with decor that has horizontal stripe. Therefore, the size of the offset will depend on how this strip divides the space of the apron. For human perception, it is best to divide the space in half, or according to the law of the golden ratio (take the total height and multiply it by 0.618).

We will assume that you have already leveled the walls with plaster or drywall in advance. This is also an important stage that cannot be ignored and rely on the glue to save you from crooked walls.
Some people think “let me lay the tiles on thick glue and they will stand up straight.” You may be able to do this, but any tile adhesive tends to dry out when it hardens. And if the size of the layer is uneven, when drying, the tile may move, tear off, and tension will be created on its surface.

If the wall is covered with whitewash, it must be removed completely. Regular oil paint it is not necessary to remove it, it will be enough to make notches on it (up to 100 pieces per square meter). They are easily made with a grinder and a concrete disc or chisel.

Since the tiles are quite heavy, you need to remove all old plaster which doesn't hold up well.

When you make a mark for the bottom row, a profile is set along it. It is needed to support the tile - otherwise the glue will not have time to harden and it will slide. Use a laser or water level to keep it perfectly level.

The profile must be set clearly in level

Applying glue

• Before starting work, you need to treat the wall with a primer deep penetration to increase adhesion.
• It is best to apply the glue first to the wall, and then in a small layer to the tile itself, and then clean it off, leaving it only in the factory recesses (for better adhesion).
• Use a notched trowel to distribute the adhesive evenly on the wall. The size of the teeth must be selected depending on the format and weight of the tile; in this case, an 8 mm comb is used.
• Once applied to the wall, you will have no more than 20 minutes to correct the result - then the glue will begin to harden. In total, it can stand in a bucket for a maximum of a couple of hours.

The glue layer should be thin and uniform. After pressing - no more than 2-3 mm.

Buy tile adhesive at the rate of 5 kg per square meter.

Laying tiles

Holes for wires and sockets

• When you reach the wire outlet, you can make a hole using a tile drill bit. Since wall tiles are much softer than floor tiles, one drill will be enough for at least 15-20 holes.
• Larger holes for sockets are made using a diamond-coated bit on a drill. But if you have an angle grinder with diamond blade on tiles ( the disc must be without holes, and the coating on it must be free of serrations) and a little experience, you can make holes with it.
• When you glue tiles next to an outlet, it is more convenient to apply the glue not to the wall, but to the tile itself.

Try not to leave adhesive on the tiles or inside the grout, otherwise it will be difficult to remove once it dries. It’s easier to clean it right away with a damp cloth.

Conclusion

The next day you will need to remove the crosses from the seams with a flat-head screwdriver and clean the seams from any remaining glue. After this, you can unscrew the profile and begin grouting the joints.

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So that readers do not have different interpretations about the word apron, the authors consider it their duty to tell dear visitors of our portal that the article will focus on the surface of the wall between the desktop and wall cabinets, and not on a piece of clothing. Although no one can do without one or the other modern kitchen and not a single modern housewife.

When renovating an apartment or building a house, people experience the greatest stress not from having to part with significant amounts of money, but from the incredible torment of choice. Number of proposals for materials, colors and design solutions, various services - so huge that choosing them takes much more time than, in fact, the repair itself. This also applies to the kitchen apron. But the authors can immediately answer main question readers - which apron is the best? The answer is clear: best apron– this is a hand made apron, regardless of what material it is made of. Our article will be about how to make an apron in the kitchen with your own hands. And, of course, attention will be paid to “insignificant details” in the form of a review of materials and technologies for their installation.

Requirements for kitchen aprons in terms of combining functionality and beauty

If we consider the etymology of the word apron (translated from Polish and German it means apron or hem), it becomes clear that it was originally conceived as a piece of work clothing needed to protect against contamination that inevitably accompanies the cooking process. Polish and German linguists are still arguing about who rightfully owns this word, although this a convenient thing It was used not only by them, but by most peoples in the world. Therefore, let etymological battles pass by the world reasonable people, that is, you and me. The main thing is to understand that the first and main purpose of an apron is protection.

However, who said that defense should be rude and ugly? It can be beautiful, it can please the eyes of its owners, without forgetting its main function. And the modern variety of materials and technologies allows both functionality and beauty to coexist harmoniously. But if you suddenly have a choice of what to sacrifice, then the clear answer is this: you can sacrifice a little beauty in favor of functionality, but you can’t do the opposite.

Why do you need a kitchen apron?

Glass kitchen aprons

Most people have a subconscious fear of glass. It is associated with something extremely fragile, brittle and sharp. However, glass is different from glass. Nowadays, tabletops, chairs and even stair steps are made from it. Kitchen aprons were also included in this wonderful material.

Glass for aprons is not ordinary glass, but tempered glass, 6-8 mm thick, which is several times stronger and can withstand heating up to 300°C. Triplex glass is also used, where two layers are glued together with a special film or laminating liquid. Glass can be either glossy or matte, painted in any color, or colorless, with or without a pattern.

It is best, of course, to use all the possibilities of a glass kitchen apron and order it with a pattern. Such aprons are also called skinali. But keep in mind that it can be done in different ways:

• Firstly, transparent glass can be used, which is fixed to a wall covered with photo wallpaper. This is the most a budget option, but it should be taken into account that moisture can penetrate into the gap between the wallpaper and the glass, which will ruin the wallpaper or contaminate the glass, thereby ruining the entire look.
• Secondly, the image can be printed on vinyl film, which is glued with back side. This solution is better, but the film can also peel off over time.
• Thirdly, the image can be printed on the glass itself from the back side of the apron using UV (ultraviolet) printing technologies.
• Fourthly, the image can be printed with UV ink inside triplex glass. This is the best, but also the most expensive option.
• And finally modern technologies allow you to print three-dimensional 3D images on kitchen aprons as well. These aprons look very unusual and are very expensive.

Glass aprons can be “revitalized” by wisely using backlighting from LEDs mounted both outside and inside the glass. The backlight can be either monochrome or color. You can organize different lighting scenarios for different moods. Modern market materials for renovation and interior design offers so many options that you can implement both a beautiful and competent solution, and any design madness. If only there was enough money for everything.

The advantages of glass aprons are obvious: moisture resistance, chemical inertness, strength, ease of cleaning, beautiful and original look. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the high price and the fact that it is still glass, which can break under impact load. When broken, aprons made of tempered glass or triplex do not form sharp, traumatic fragments. But this still will not return the considerable money spent.

Glass kitchen aprons can also be attached either with through fasteners or with the help of special elements. When taking dimensions and planning the kitchen workspace, you should always take into account everything that will be installed on the apron. These could be several sockets, switches, holes for attaching roof rails - hanging system to accommodate any kitchen utensils. Just as with MDF panels, it is better to entrust the entire range of services for measurements, manufacturing and installation to those who have done this many times, that is, to professionals.

Metal kitchen aprons

For those who intend to truly create, metal aprons are specially offered. They look very unusual and in some cases even beautiful. Fans of the “techno” or “loft” style can easily use metal in the kitchen, but for this you really need to have a subtle artistic taste or invite a designer with such qualities, which is rare. The line between harmony, beauty and madness with metal aprons is very thin, about the same as with mirrored aprons.

Metal aprons can be made as large sheets from of stainless steel, and tiles and even mosaics. The functional qualities of the metal are questionable. With good hygiene, metal has excellent adhesiveness to all types of kitchen contaminants and is very capricious in the choice of cleaning products. He does not tolerate abrasives.

It was previously noted that it is better to completely entrust the installation of an apron made of MDF panels or glass to those who, in fact, will manufacture them. Therefore, we will consider other options that the owner can do with his own hands. But before installation, you need to decide at what stage you need to make the apron, and what requirements the room must meet.

Requirements for the room and surfaces

Installation of aprons made of MDF, glass or plastic panels can be done already when the kitchen set is installed. Not only is it possible, but even necessary, since very high accuracy of measurements is required, which will allow the apron to fit perfectly into the workspace. The only thing is that during installation you just need to move the furniture away from the wall, and with through installation you won’t even need to do this.

If the apron is made from ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, mosaics, natural or artificial stone, then wet processes are indispensable. Therefore, the furniture should not be next to the walls where the apron will be, but the exact dimensions of the furniture and how it will be installed (height of the countertop, hanging height of the cabinets, distance between the working surface and the bottom plane of the cabinets) must be known.

What are the requirements for a kitchen space to install an apron?

• Windows must be installed in the kitchen.
• Must be mounted, all sockets installed.
• The walls must be plastered and leveled. On the wall where the apron will be mounted, the use of gypsum-based putties is unacceptable; only polymer-cement mixtures can be used.
• The floor must be level with the finishing coating already laid. Naturally, it should be smooth and horizontal.
• The temperature in the kitchen should be no lower than +5°C and no more than +30°C, humidity no more than 60%.

In other words, the room must be completely ready for finishing– wallpapering, applying finishing decorative plaster or painting. The surface on which the apron will be mounted must be dry and perfectly flat. If glass, glass or smalt mosaic will be used for the apron, then the surface should be puttied with polymer-cement mixtures based on white cement.

Kitchen apron markings

On a wall that is completely ready for cladding, it is necessary to mark the position of the future apron. But for this there must be a clear understanding of the placement kitchen set. It is best if it has already been purchased and a diagram of its placement has been drawn up. What you need to consider when marking a kitchen apron.

• First of all, the apron should be located in the space between the countertop and the bottom plane of the wall cabinets, and it is desirable that the apron extends beyond the countertop and cabinets by at least 2 cm. Most often, the distance between the countertop is 60 cm, but it is permissible to make it in the range of 45 -70 cm, it all depends on the height of the people who will use the kitchen.
• The height of the countertop of a kitchen set also depends on the height of people, but in the same family there can be people of different heights, and they are often built into the set household appliances: washing and dishwashers, freezers. Therefore, in most cases, the height is set to 88-90 cm, and people with “outstanding height” (more than 200 cm and less than 150 cm) will not have to bend or jump, there will simply be a slight inconvenience to which they get used to very quickly.

Most manufactured kitchen sets are made for the convenience of people of average height

• If a standard dome-type hood is used, then the apron should extend in height along its entire width and reach its lower edge, or better yet, if it extends under the hood at a distance of at least 5 cm or, even better, reaches the ceiling. At the same time, for side surfaces In cabinets, it is recommended to place the apron at a distance of at least 5 cm.
• The height of the lower edge of the hood dome above the countertop should be at least 65 cm for electric stoves, and 75 cm for gas stoves.
• The standard width of gas or electric kitchen stoves or hobs can be 30 cm, 45 cm, 50 cm or 60 cm. There are larger sizes, but this already applies to stoves for professional use. The most commonly used slabs are 60 cm wide. The dimensions of the hood dome should not be less than the width of the slab, but it is better if they are one step larger. For example, for a stove or hob with a width of 60 cm, you should select a hood of at least 80 cm. The distance between the wall cabinets should allow the hood to fit freely.
• The apron in the kitchen does not have to be located only between the countertop and the upper wall cabinets. Sometimes it needs to be done by approaching the side walls, this is especially true in the area where the sink or stove is located, if they are located along the edges. This can also be influenced by nearby window or door openings.

To mark the position of the apron on the wall you will need either a laser or a hydraulic level. Laser ones, of course, are more convenient to work with, but hydraulic ones also provide very high accuracy. It is advisable that the kitchen set has already been purchased, but not yet installed on site. As a last resort, you can measure the future kitchen in the store where it will be purchased or have documentation indicating all dimensions. For marking you need:

• On the wall where the kitchen set will be installed, a mark is made on one of the edges for the position of the upper plane of the countertop.
• The level moves the mark to the other edge of the wall.
• Use a paint cord to mark the horizontal line of the tabletop position.
• If necessary, if the kitchen is corner or the apron will extend onto other walls, then similar markings are made on other walls.
• A mark is made on the position of the lower edge of the wall cabinets based on the size of the specific kitchen unit that will subsequently be installed in the kitchen.
• The position marks for the bottom edge of the wall cabinets are transferred to all walls where the kitchen apron will be installed.
• The marked parallel lines mark the location kitchen stove or hob.
• The position of the lower edge of the hood dome is noted (minimum 65 cm for electric stoves, 75 cm – for gas stoves from the countertop).
• The position of the side surfaces of the wall cabinets at the location of the hood dome is noted; it should fit freely into the space between the cabinets; it is better if there is a gap of 1-3 cm on each side.
• The upper edge of the apron located in the hood area is marked. The apron should extend at least 5 cm under the hood, and it is better to make it up to the ceiling.

After these steps, the location lines of the future kitchen set will be marked on the wall. But, as noted earlier, it is advisable to make the apron so that its surface extends slightly under the countertop or set. It is advisable to recess the apron behind the countertop and the lower edge of the wall cabinets at a distance of at least 20 mm, and in the area where the hood is located on the left and right, the apron should be recessed under the cabinets at a distance of at least 50 mm. Therefore, parallel to the horizontal and vertical lines of the position of the kitchen furniture, the lines of the position of the apron are broken off

When planning and marking the backsplash, you should also take into account the size of the tiles or mosaics that will be used. For example, if the tiles are 20 cm in height, then it is completely logical that it is beneficial to make three rows of 20 cm tiles, and make the gap between the table top and the bottom edge of the wall cabinets 56 cm, taking into account the fact that 2 cm from the top and bottom will go under furniture. If tiles of other sizes are used, this must also be taken into account. If they apply decorative elements- friezes and borders - then you need to ensure that they are visible. What's the point of using expensive elements that will be hidden from view under the furniture. Each case is individual and requires its own differentiated approach.

After drawing all the marking lines indicating the position of the kitchen furniture and the apron, you need to calculate the area of ​​the apron. The authors of the article recommend using a calculator, in which you only need to indicate the clearance between the countertop and the bottom edge of the wall cabinets, as well as the distance between the vertical surfaces of the cabinets and the height of the apron above the bottom surface of the cabinets in the area of ​​the hood. The calculator automatically takes into account all the penetrations of the apron under the furniture (2 cm on the horizontal section of the apron and 5 cm in the area of ​​the hood).

The section of the wall between the floor and wall cabinets of the kitchen unit is quite small, but it should be protected to a greater extent than the rest of the walls. Fumes during cooking, dampness near the sink, splashes when cooking and cutting food - all this literally destroys ordinary plaster, whitewash or wallpaper.

At the same time, this particular area is constantly in front of the owner’s eyes, and, therefore, should be to some extent aesthetically attractive.

That's why so much attention is paid to the question of how to do it.

Traditional materials

Today, these include many finishes, some of which are impossible to do with your own hands, but generally the installation is quite simple.

• Ceramic tiles - of any size and even configuration, if we are talking about the mosaic version. Such a kitchen apron is traditional, popular, decorative and successfully copes with the functions of protection, since it is fire-resistant and resistant to water and steam at the same time.

Installation may present some difficulties. You can lay the tiles in horizontal rows - the most economical and most boring way, diagonally - which requires some skill and careful calculation, or decorate the kitchen with mosaics. The last method is the most labor-intensive, but it allows you to lay out the tiles in a pattern or even in the form of an image. On the following photos– design of an apron in the kitchen.

• A steel apron is less decorative and, moreover, is not suitable for every kitchen set. However, this material is, without a doubt, hygienic, waterproof and fireproof, and also extremely durable. Available in different forms: long panels, tiles and mosaics.

You can lay out the first and second options with your own hands, just like tiles. Only the adhesive composition used is different. Large slabs steel is first laid on a sheet of waterproof plywood or MDF, and then fixed to the wall.

• Undoubtedly, it will decorate the interior. A wide variety of options are possible here decorative effects– from toning and photo printing to engraving and sandblasting. In this case, the kitchen apron can be either solid panels or glass tiles.

requires experience and physical strength, since a glass sheet of this size is very heavy, and the fragility of even tempered glass is still high.

Do-it-yourself installation of medium or small glass tiles. The panels are inserted into an aluminum profile and joined together. Textured glass tiles - for example, in the form of a brick - need to be glued to the wall.

Non-traditional materials

The following options are much more interesting, as they allow you to create completely unique interior. You can use whatever comes into your head, as long as it can be glued or secured in some way.

Apron protection

In the vast majority of cases the last stage laying the materials at hand is the installation of a protective screen. There are 2 possibilities here.

Images and photos

All such work is carried out after the wall is fully prepared for installation - plastering and leveling. Use as decorative material a lot is possible:

Unusual solutions

Literally anyone can decorate a kitchen apron. Moreover, at first glance, the materials are very far from decorative.

• Laminate finishing is not the most common solution. The decorative value of laminate is higher than imagined: the material imitates not only parquet or laying boards, but also stone and ceramic tiles. Finishing from a laminate of the appropriate class will not be afraid of water and splashes, and this material is no less resistant to temperature changes than MDF.

The ability of laminate to create a flat surface is also used here: the dies are connected very tightly to prevent the appearance of cracks. The laminate is fastened liquid nails. No other options are allowed here. Laying the laminate, of course, is done with your own hands, since such models are not found in production.

Finish that doesn't need protection

You can make any of the aprons listed below with your own hands from the most popular materials. And by the way, it's not as difficult as it seems.

A truly unusual kitchen apron can only be created with your own hands. Your own imagination and unexpected material will ensure complete individuality, and the methods of fastening the materials are standard.

An apron is the covering of the part of the wall between the upper and lower cabinets of a kitchen set. Its task is to protect the wall from moisture, hot steam, grease, splashes and any dirt. To make your choice easier, we have compared the most practical and spectacular options finishing the work area in five important criteria. Professional advice on what to make a kitchen apron from, comparison of the best materials and real photos beautiful aprons - in this article.

Correct sizes

• Usually kitchen apron height varies from 45 to 60 centimeters. How high it should be in your case depends on the height of the household, the type of stove and the type of furniture. For a short housewife, it is more convenient to hang the upper modules lower, leaving 40-55 cm between the table top and the bottom edge of the cabinets. The edges of the finishing material should extend a couple of centimeters under the lower/upper cabinets.

• As for width, most often the decorative coating covers the entire wall along the worktop - from edge to edge of the kitchen furniture. If you wish, you can limit yourself to small protective inserts only in the sink and hob area.
• In the kitchen with gas stove distance between hob and the hood should be at least 75-80 cm. Provide for this protrusion in the kitchen design.
• The apron of a kitchen set without upper cabinets should be brought all the way to the ceiling.

Selecting color and design

• Decide in advance which apron is best to choose for the kitchen - a bright accent one or a neutral one, which will only serve as a backdrop for a beautiful set.
• A white apron (plain or with mosaic inserts, bright tiles and ceramic decors) is easy to combine with a kitchen of any color. Other neutral tones are also popular: milky, creamy, beige, light gray, champagne and ivory.
• A dark, glossy finish is impractical: water droplets and grease splashes will be especially noticeable on it.

Photos of aprons for the kitchen: top 5 best materials

Ceramic tile

The best option in terms of price, quality, durability and convenience. In finishing the apron they often use glazed wall tiles, less often thin and light porcelain tiles. The most popular formats are 10x10, 15x15, 20x30 and 20x40 cm, as well as a different-sized “hog”.

In the photo: an example of a stylish backsplash made of 10x10 cm tiles with a patchwork pattern (Batik collection from Bayker)

The tiles have many decors to suit different tastes and every budget. The surface of ceramics can imitate the texture of stone, wood, metal, and concrete.

When choosing tiles for your kitchen backsplash, take a closer look at their texture: rough and textured ones are difficult to keep clean, so you should give preference to glossy, smooth ones.

Price. Making a ceramic splashback will cost more than plastic, but much less than glass and acrylic stone. In addition to the cost of the material, do not forget to include in the calculation the costs of leveling mixture, glue, grout for joints, sealant and the work of craftsmen.

Installation . Installation should be left to a professional. The work area in a kitchen of any size is always the center of attention, and laying tiles flawlessly is not easy without experience. An important point: ceramics last a long time. If you don't like the design, it won't be easy to change it.

Durability. It will easily last you 15 years or more.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care . ★★★★★

Modern design ideas and photographs of kitchen tile backsplashes in real interiors We have compiled a selection below:

Original idea apron on the wall in the kitchen-living room with modern interior
Traditional kitchen design in Provence style

Options for a bright kitchen with a phototile apron

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Strained glass

When choosing a drawing or photo from the catalog for a glass kitchen apron, consider the color of the facades

Handsome and practical material, which in many properties is not inferior to ceramics. A glass apron is easier to maintain than you might think, and heat and moisture do not spoil its appearance.

In the kitchen they use durable tempered glass 6 and 8 mm thick with different designs: transparent, painted, tinted, frosted and decorated with photo printing.

Price. This type of finish can hardly be called budget: glass panels with photo printing (skins) are noticeably more expensive than tiles and mosaics, not to mention plastic. In addition to the cost of manufacturing the apron, glass and the necessary fasteners, you will have to pay extra for the design (the photo from the catalog will probably need to be modified), color proofing, installation, cutting out holes for sockets and other services that are not obvious to the inexperienced buyer. Most inexpensive option- transparent protective screen, the wall behind which can be painted or covered with beautiful wallpaper.

Installation . The main advantage of a glass apron is the speed of installation and the absence of “dirty” work - the whole process takes a couple of hours.

Durability. Contrary to the fears of many, such an apron can decorate your kitchen for a long time without losing its attractive appearance. Some companies provide a 5-year warranty. Of course, we are talking about a high-quality product with UV printing with good ink.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care . ★★★★

Fingerprints, water and grease marks are more noticeable on glass than on tiles. But a smooth panel without joints is much easier to clean than cleaning numerous seams. It is enough to wipe it regularly with a damp sponge soap solution and use glass cleaner from time to time.

By choosing a light glass apron for a small kitchen (as in the photo), you will visually expand the small space

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Plastic

The optimal choice for economy class headsets and temporary repairs, especially if you are going to do it yourself.

A good assortment of inexpensive plastic kitchen aprons is available in Leroy Merlin, OBI and other construction hypermarkets.

There are two finishing options:

• Furniture panel made of MDF, chipboard and fibreboard, lined decorative plastic HPL - plain or with decor like wood, ceramics, stone, mosaic.
• PVC wall panels. Flexible screens are attached to the wall using glue and aluminum profile. In terms of practicality and durability, they are inferior to MDF and chipboard: they are thinner, lose color faster, and cannot be installed in kitchens with gas hob- deformed.

Price. The most budget option in our selection. Three-meter plastic panel In the same Leroy Merlin you can buy an average of 1.5-2.5 thousand rubles.

Installation. Important advantage plastic apron when renovating a kitchen - easy installation, which even a beginner can handle. It is easy to make holes for sockets and rails directly during installation.

Durability. Of all the materials in our review, this type of apron has the most short term services. Compared to other options, it will most quickly lose its “face” and is unlikely to last more than 3-5 years. But it is easy and inexpensive to replace.

Moisture resistance. ★★★

According to this indicator, it seriously loses to competing materials. But if you take quality apron made of MDF and cover the joints with the tabletop with plinth, there is no need to worry about problems.

Care . ★★★★

It is enough to wipe a plastic apron with a damp microfiber cloth or soft sponge. Make sure that water does not flood the edges, otherwise the base of the slab may warp and swell.

An apron for a kitchen made of MDF with photo printing is best complemented with neutral facades and a plain finish

Wood-look laminate countertops and splashbacks can easily be combined with a white kitchen

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Mosaic

The contrasting finish of the mosaic splashback will make the kitchen design bright and modern: the “chameleon” material looks different depending on the lighting and perfectly brings the interior together.

Price. Compared to ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware, mosaic is a less profitable option for decorating a backsplash. Both installation work and necessary materials: You will have to buy special glue and grout. If you want to save money, choose mosaic tiles. It is cheaper and greatly simplifies installation.

Installation . Grouting numerous seams is a labor-intensive process: it requires experience, time and great care.

Durability. Will serve without any complaints long years. Normal service life quality material- 20-25 years.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care . ★★★★

See the photos below for examples of real kitchen aprons made of mosaics (glass, ceramic, stone, metal):

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Fake diamond

Most often, an apron made of artificial stone is combined with a countertop made of the same material.

Price. Perhaps the most expensive design option for a work area in our selection.

Installation . Needs work experienced craftsmen, but there will be no dirt during installation.

Durability. With careful handling, acrylic stone will last you a very long time, but over time micro-scratches appear. To the credit of the material, it is easy to restore: sand out cracks and build up chips. After polishing it will be like new.

Moisture resistance. ★★★★★

Care . ★★★★★

You can learn more about this finishing material.

Corian figured wall panel
A stone apron is often chosen for a classic kitchen MORE 7 PHOTOS CLOSE

You liked the expensive finishing material, and new renovation do you plan to do more soon? Do not deny yourself the pleasure - you will admire a beautiful apron every day! Do the math different variants. Moreover, a typical kitchen requires very little finishing.

The comfort of a living space largely depends on how well our life is organized in it. The most important place among auxiliary premises occupied by the kitchen. We love it most of all, because it is there that we enjoy deliciously prepared food. The apron plays an important role in the interior of the kitchen.

photos

An apron is a section of the wall between the lower and upper tier of kitchen modules. It protects the wall from dirt, just as work clothes of the same name protect a housewife's suit from stains. It largely determines how beautiful and tidy our kitchen looks, and how harmoniously the individual modules fit together.

photos

How to choose

Since the apron must be primarily functional, the materials for its manufacture must be selected with such characteristics that they protect problem areas on the walls well and are easy to clean. This means that when choosing materials, you must pay attention to their resistance to temperature changes and moisture resistance, as well as how easily the surface can be cleaned of contaminants deposited on it.

Installation of a protective coating, first of all, is necessary near the sink and stove, since numerous water and grease splashes can seriously stain the wall. IN work area There are also food processing processes that have a damaging effect on surrounding surfaces, so it is better to place protection along the entire row of kitchen furniture.

In addition, the apron also has an aesthetic purpose. It is needed in order to combine the top and bottom rows into a single whole and create a coherent kitchen ensemble that will create comfort and delight the owners.

Features and Benefits

When we think about what our kitchen will look like, we must take into account its features. If the windows face north or have small sizes, then there will be a lack of light in the room. This means that the color scheme should neutralize the darkness and it will be necessary additional lighting. On the contrary, if the kitchen is very light, then the shades of the furniture and walls may be darker.

When selecting materials for making a kitchen apron, you need to take into account the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. Essential criteria for evaluation are ease of care, heat resistance, and moisture resistance.

Advantages traditional materials in their time-tested practicality and relatively low cost. Non-traditional materials make it possible to implement various bold projects, and at the same time, any innovations can be very convenient for use in everyday life.

Each material has its own installation characteristics. Tiles, natural mosaic and fake diamond require preliminary preparation surfaces. When installing such an apron, there should be no furniture in the kitchen. Glass and panel protection is installed after furniture is installed. But the specific installation location of the apron must, in any case, be determined with maximum accuracy, taking into account all cabinets and equipment.

Materials

A wide variety of materials can be used to make a protective coating. The most common are ceramic tiles, PVC, MDF and chipboard panels, tempered glass, and mosaics. When choosing a material, the fact from which material it is made is of great importance. kitchen furniture. The apron is made from the one that best matches it in texture and color.

Ceramic tiles are the most popular material. It fits easily into any kitchen as there are so many tiles available different sizes, colors and textures. It tolerates temperature changes well, is durable, is not afraid of moisture, and is easy to clean from dirt. At quality installation lasts a long time.

Porcelain tiles are stronger in properties than ceramic tiles and have higher moisture resistance. There are tiles large sizes, there will be fewer joints between them, so less dirt will accumulate in the seams. If a porcelain stoneware countertop is mounted on the work surface, then it would be logical to make the apron from the same material.

An apron made of natural stone will look good with a stone countertop. Since this material is quite expensive, it is rarely found in kitchens.

But artificial stone is quite popular. It is much cheaper than natural, but looks no less noble. Since not only countertops, but also sinks are made from such material, it becomes possible to create magnificent kitchen sets. Such sets last a long time, they are easy to care for, and the plates are well connected to each other.

Mosaic splashbacks There are both single-color and multi-color. Even a picture can be assembled to suit every taste with a variety of patterns. It all depends on the plans of the owners. Mosaics can be made from various materials in all sorts of combinations. Use ceramics, glass, porcelain stoneware, a natural stone, metal, mirrors and other materials. The service life of the apron and its practicality directly depend on the quality of installation and grouting.

MDF and PVC panels are low cost and look good thanks to the variety of patterns that can be applied to them. Colors and images can imitate various materials: tiles, mosaics, wood, brick and stone. However, such panels are not very practical as they are easily damaged, but they are quickly installed and easy to replace.

Metal surface the walls will look interesting if the original design idea is realized. This apron looks unique and is quite practical, as it is not afraid high temperature and washes well using products that do not scratch the surface.

Glass aprons, contrary to the belief that they are fragile and brittle, are quite practical. Strained glass withstands high temperatures. If it has a smooth surface, it is easy to clean. Glass can be frosted or transparent, with or without a pattern. The transparent protection on the wall can be attached in such a way that it can be easily removed, and then the kitchen can be diversified by changing the patterns underneath it. There you can place photographs and drawings, which can look different thanks to the various LED lighting. These aprons are very beautiful, moisture resistant, but they can still break.

Protection on the kitchen wall can be made of laminate. It is important to choose it with such characteristics that it is not afraid of high temperatures and water splashes. Due to the fact that the panels are tightly connected to each other, they form a comfortable solid surface. The laminate is attached directly to the wall using liquid nails.

It is quite acceptable to make an apron from parquet blocks. The dies are attached to a fiberboard or chipboard backing and then placed on the wall. The drawing can turn out to be varied and very beautiful.

Colors and design

When choosing an appearance wall apron There are no restrictions and the surface can be decorated in any way. A wide variety of possible color solutions, one or several colors can be used. Beautiful models are obtained by using different shades of the same color.

The design may contain unusual color spots. The surface may look dry and restrained, but it is also possible to create a bright patchwork quilt with fragments of different images, colors and sizes.

Great importance have colors in the kitchen from a psychological point of view. You should not use dirty or acidic colors in the interior, which can spoil the mood of the cooking housewife and the appetite of family members. The most acceptable colors are foods or ripe vegetables and fruits. Beautiful images of the products themselves will also be appropriate; they will look especially good on a white background.

Color and light in the kitchen should be well thought out. Light in the work area is necessary, and if the countertop is not well lit, additional lighting can be installed in the apron area. The light can also have different shades, which will allow you to change the scenery and diversify the kitchen space.

You can experiment in the kitchen, but you cannot miss the main thing - all design elements should look consistent.

How to make and install it yourself

An interior element such as a kitchen apron can be made with my own hands. First you need to determine what material it will be made of, and then decide whether we can do it or whether it’s better to trust the specialists. It is better to leave the installation of a glass apron to the manufacturer. Tiles, porcelain tiles and mosaics can be installed independently.

If you understand that in your case you can make an apron yourself, then let’s get started. We inspect the surface of the wall, it should be dry and smooth. We determine where the apron will be located. If the stove or sink is located in the corner of the kitchen, then it is advisable to go onto the side wall. If you plan to install a hood, the protective surface should extend beyond it, and it is better if the protection is mounted flush with the top plane of the wall cabinets.

The marking of the future apron should be done in such a way that it extends 2 cm behind the tabletop and cabinets. The marking is done according to the level, strictly horizontally. The top and bottom lines are drawn on the main wall and side ones, if necessary. Further installation technology depends on the material used.

Installing panels

The simplest solution is MDF or chipboard panels. Such an apron can be made of a single piece or several components. The panels are cut to fit the free part of the wall and fixed on it after the furniture is installed. The surface underneath may not be very smooth and does not require special preparation. Fastening can be done using any in a convenient way. These can be screws with decorative heads, liquid nails, special or universal glue. After mounting on the wall, the panel is attached to furniture set using specially selected elements. MDF and PVC panels can be easily installed yourself.

Laying out the mosaic

The mosaic may consist of different materials. The individual mosaic pieces are called chips. The sizes and shapes can be very different - both strict geometry and arbitrary. The more complex the shape, the more labor-intensive the process of laying the mosaic will be.

Chips are combined into matrices. They can be fastened together using paper glued to the front side, but it is more convenient to use a polymer mesh on back side. A gap is made between the chips, which is subsequently sealed using epoxy grout.

Mosaics with a smooth surface are easier to install, but if the surface is corrugated, more careful work is required when grouting so as not to spoil the design. Caring for such fragments during operation will be more difficult, so it is better to form the pattern in such a way that chips with irregularities are located in places less susceptible to contamination.

Let's check how much flat wall. We remove small tubercles of putty from the surface. We clean the wall from dust and prime it.

We sort through the material and examine it. It is better to purchase mosaic elements with a reserve; you should not take them back to back, as defects may be detected or accidental damage may occur during the installation process. On smooth surface lay out the mosaic, trimming the gaps. We measure the length and width of the fragment, and then mark this size on the wall. It is better to attach a guide to the wall along the lower border to prevent the mosaic from sliding down.

Adhesive composition should be selected specifically for the material used. There are adhesive mixtures based on cement, polyurethane, and epoxy. We study the packaging and pay attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Prepare according to the instructions and apply an even layer of glue to the wall, making grooves. We place the mosaic sheet on the wall, check how correct its position is, and then press it to the surface with a trowel or roll it with a roller. After installing all the sheets, clean the seams from glue and wipe the surface of the mosaic.

Two days after installation, we seal the seams with grout. Grouting is very important, as it must protect numerous seams from the penetration of moisture and microorganisms. It is better to use epoxy grouts, since compared to cement-based grouts, they protect better from moisture, withstand temperature changes better, and crumble less. The variety of available colors allows you to make the best selection.