When homeowners renovate a kitchen, they usually focus on cabinets and worktops first. Yet one feature often determines whether the space feels average or exceptional: the kitchen splashback.
It protects your walls, yes. But more importantly, it finishes the room. It adds depth, contrast, and character. At Imperial Worktops, we see it every week: customers finalise their worktops, only to realise the splashback is what truly completes the design.
If chosen carefully, it becomes a statement rather than an afterthought. Let’s look at what works in UK homes right now and how to choose properly.
Why a Kitchen Splashback Is a Design Investment
A quality kitchen splashback does far more than stop oil splashes and watermarks.
It simplifies cleaning. Instead of scrubbing grout or repainting stained walls, you wipe it clean in seconds. That alone saves time and frustration.
It also adds perceived value. Estate agents regularly highlight modern kitchens in property listings. A seamless stone or glass finish signals quality and attention to detail.
More importantly, it ties everything together. Without it, even an expensive worktop can look unfinished.
Most Popular Materials in the UK
Material choice matters. It affects durability, maintenance, and overall appearance.
Quartz
Quartz is one of the most requested options across the UK. A quartz kitchen splashback creates a smooth, continuous look when paired with matching worktops.
It resists stains, handles everyday cooking heat, and requires minimal upkeep. For busy households, it offers peace of mind.
UK pricing typically ranges from £250 to £400 per square metre installed, depending on the brand and thickness.
Granite
Granite brings natural character into the home. Every slab features unique veining and colour variation.
A granite kitchen splashback suits both traditional and high-end contemporary kitchens. It tolerates heat very well and lasts decades when maintained properly.
Sealing is required periodically, but long-term durability is excellent.
Glass
Glass works beautifully in modern layouts. It reflects light, which makes compact kitchens feel larger.
A glass kitchen splashback can be colour-matched to cabinetry or painted to create contrast. Cleaning is simple, and maintenance is low.
Installed pricing in the UK usually ranges from £200 to £350 per square metre.
Porcelain
Porcelain has grown in popularity due to its slim profile and strong heat resistance.
A porcelain kitchen splashback suits minimalist and handleless kitchens. It offers a contemporary matte finish and is often less expensive than premium stone options.
Marble
Marble remains timeless. It creates elegance instantly.
Although a marble kitchen splashback requires sealing and careful cleaning, many homeowners choose it for its soft veining and classic appeal.
Trending Styles in 2026
UK kitchen design is shifting toward bolder yet balanced choices.
Full-height installations are becoming standard. Instead of stopping at cabinet height, the surface now extends to the ceiling. This creates a dramatic focal point behind the hob.
Matching worktops and splashbacks is another major trend. A continuous stone design looks intentional and refined.
Dark tones are also rising in popularity. Deep grey, charcoal, and even black surfaces contrast beautifully with white or oak cabinetry.
Meanwhile, subtle veining and textured matte finishes offer a softer, more understated aesthetic.
Choosing the Right Colour
Colour impacts the entire atmosphere of your kitchen.
White creates brightness and timeless appeal. Grey delivers a clean, contemporary look. Beige and warm tones bring comfort and warmth.
A dark kitchen splashback can introduce contrast and depth, particularly in open-plan layouts.
Before deciding, always view samples under your kitchen lighting. Natural and artificial light change how tones appear.
How to Choose Properly
Selecting the right kitchen splashback requires balancing practicality and design.
Consider how often you cook. Heavy-cooking households benefit from durable, low-maintenance surfaces like quartz or porcelain.
Think about long-term value. Premium materials may cost more upfront but reduce replacement and maintenance costs over time.
Measure carefully. Professional templating ensures a flawless fit, especially when cutting around sockets and extractor units.
Most importantly, avoid treating it as an afterthought. Plan it alongside your worktop and cabinetry from the beginning.
Small Kitchen Solutions
Smaller kitchens benefit from reflective and light-enhancing materials.
Glossy finishes reflect light throughout the room. Larger panels reduce grout lines, creating a smoother appearance.
Vertical designs subtly draw the eye upward, making ceilings feel higher.
Even in compact spaces, the right kitchen splashback can transform the feel entirely.
Installation Matters
Professional installation protects your investment.
Stone surfaces require precise cutting and levelling. Inaccurate measurements lead to visible gaps or uneven joints.
A properly installed kitchen splashback sits flush against the wall and integrates seamlessly with the worktop.
Although DIY options exist, expert fitting ensures durability and safety around heat zones.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintenance varies depending on the material.
Quartz and porcelain require minimal effort. Warm water and mild detergent are usually sufficient.
Natural stone requires periodic sealing to maintain its moisture and stain resistance.
With proper care, a quality kitchen splashback can last twenty years or more.
Does It Increase Property Value?
Upgrading this feature can enhance the kitchen’s overall appeal.
Buyers often focus on visible quality signals. A well-installed kitchen splashback communicates durability and thoughtful design.
While it may not add direct monetary value on a pound-for-pound basis, it strengthens buyer confidence and market appeal.
Why Professional Guidance Makes a Difference
Choosing materials online can feel overwhelming.
At Imperial Worktops, customers often bring sample cabinets and flooring to compare finishes in person. This prevents costly mismatches.
When worktops and splashbacks are planned together, the result feels cohesive rather than pieced together.
Professional consultation ensures better colour matching, accurate templating and smoother installation.
Conclusion
A thoughtfully selected kitchen splashback does far more than protect your walls. It defines the character of your kitchen.
Whether you choose quartz for durability, granite for natural beauty or glass for modern brightness, the right decision enhances both style and function.
Plan carefully, invest in professional fitting and choose materials that match your lifestyle. When done properly, it completely transforms your kitchen.
FAQs
1. What is the most durable material for a kitchen splashback?
Quartz and porcelain are highly durable and require very little maintenance.
2. Can it withstand high cooking heat?
Yes, most stone, quartz, and glass options are safe to use under normal hob heat.
3. What does installation cost in the UK?
Prices vary but typically range from £200 to £400 per square metre installed.
4. Should it match my worktop?
Matching creates a seamless look, while contrast adds visual interest.
5. Is a professional fitting necessary?
Professional installation ensures precise cutting and long-term durability.
6. How long does it usually last?
With proper care, it can last decades without significant wear.
7. Does natural stone require sealing?
Yes, sealing helps maintain stain resistance and durability.
8. Are darker colours harder to maintain?
They hide stains well but may show fingerprints more clearly.
9. What finish suits small kitchens best?
Glossy and lighter tones reflect light, creating a spacious feel.
10. Does upgrading improve resale appeal?
Yes, a premium finish significantly strengthens buyer perception.