Blog posts of '2024' 'March'

The kitchen splashback takes the brunt of splatters, spills, and grease. But with a little TLC, you can keep it looking brand new for years to come. Here are 10 effective maintenance tips to ensure your splashback shines:

1.        Embrace the Power of Daily Wipes: Don't let grime build up. After cooking, wipe down your splashback with a damp microfiber cloth. This removes light splashes and grease, preventing stubborn stains.
2.        Befriend Mild Cleaners: Harsh chemicals are your splashback's enemy. Opt for gentle dish soap diluted with water or a solution specifically designed for your splashback material.
3.        Tackle Stains Swiftly: Fresh spills are easier to remove. Address any splatters or food remnants immediately with a damp cloth and your cleaning solution.
4.        Conquer Grease with Baking Soda: For stubborn grease stains, baking soda is your knight in shining armor. Make a paste with water and apply it to the affected area. Leave it for 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush and rinse clean.
5.        Vinegar Magic: For hard water stains or mineral deposits, white vinegar diluted with water can work wonders. Spray the solution on the stain, leave it for a few minutes, and wipe clean.
6.        The Gentle Touch: Avoid abrasive sponges or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface of your splashback. Microfiber cloths are ideal for daily cleaning and wiping away spills.
7.        Banish Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, and other strong chemicals can damage your splashback. Stick to gentle cleaners designed for your specific splashback material.
8.        Beware of Burnt-on Food: Never attempt to scrape off burnt-on food with sharp objects. This can cause permanent scratches. Instead, soak the area with warm water and dish soap to loosen the residue.
9.        Defend Against Heat: Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the splashback. The extreme heat can cause discoloration or cracking. Use pot holders or trivets whenever possible.
10.    Regular Deep Cleaning: For a thorough clean, schedule a deep cleaning every few months. This might involve using a specialised cleaner for your splashback material, following the manufacturer's instructions.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your kitchen splashback looking brand new and ensure it remains a beautiful and functional element in your kitchen for years to come. Remember, prevention is key—the more consistent you are with daily cleaning, the easier it will be to maintain your splashback's shine.

The world of kitchen renovations can be filled with seemingly simple questions that morph into complex decisions. One such question that often arises is: does the splashback go up before or after the countertop? While there isn't a single, universally correct answer, understanding the pros and cons of each approach can help you make the best decision for your specific project.

The Case for Countertop First:

• Sealing and Security: Installing the countertop first allows the splashback to be fitted on top, creating a more secure seal against water and moisture. This is especially important behind areas like the sink and stovetop, where spills are more frequent.
• Easier Cutting and Edging: With the countertop in place, you have a clear reference point for precise cutting and edging of the splashback material. This ensures a cleaner, more professional-looking finish.
• Less Mess and Cleanup: Installing the countertop first helps contain dust and debris from the splashback installation within the confined area of the countertop itself. This minimises the need for extensive cleaning throughout the kitchen.
• Design Flexibility: If you have a specific splashback design in mind, particularly one with intricate patterns or mosaics, installing it first can offer more flexibility in choosing a complementary countertop material. The splashback becomes the focal point, and the countertop can be selected to harmonize with it.
• Under-Cabinet Support: In some cases, the splashback material might be used to provide additional support for the underside of the upper cabinets. Installing the splashback first ensures proper alignment and stability for the cabinets.
• Accommodating Uneven Walls: If your walls have slight imperfections, installing the splashback first can help create a straighter and more visually appealing finished product, as the countertop can be scribed to fit any minor deviations.

The Case for Splashback First:

Ultimately, the decision of whether to install the countertop or splashback first depends on various factors:

• Your desired design aesthetic: Do you want the countertop or the splashback to be the star of the show?
• The complexity of the splashback material: Intricate designs might benefit from being installed first.
• The condition of your walls: Uneven walls might favour installing the splashback first for a neater look.

Consulting with a professional contractor or designer can be invaluable in navigating these decisions and ensuring a smooth and successful kitchen renovation. They can assess your specific project details and recommend the most appropriate installation order based on your unique needs and preferences.

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