Apron panels for the kitchen: how to choose and install?

The apron in the kitchen is created in order to protect the surface from greasy stains and vapors. And wall panels are the best at this task. The article will discuss the pros and cons of this material, the types and rules of choice.

A kitchen apron performs a very important function - protecting the wall from temperature extremes and pollution. Of course, the surface must match the overall look of the kitchen unit and be harmonious.

A feature of the materials for finishing the apron, as well as for the kitchen as a whole, is resistance to high humidity and temperature extremes. Here, wall panels can be an ideal option, the installation of which also does not take much time and effort.

An apron in the kitchen can be either an accent of decoration or a neutral one. If the interior design is made in a light color, then a drawing of large flowers or fruits can be applied to the apron. The main condition is that everything should be harmonious.

Until recently, tiles were very popular for finishing an apron. It was chosen for its easy care and aesthetic appearance. But nowadays this kind of material is not often seen in the kitchen. There are two reasons for this: cost and installation complexity.

In modern hardware stores, you can find a large assortment of decorative kitchen panels. They are varied in both price and quality. Consider the pros and cons of the different options.

The most affordable material. Everyone can handle the installation. It is easy to stick on, but the service life of this coating is very short. And also the film is unable to withstand high temperatures and is fire hazardous.

Can be used in the kitchen but will be very expensive. Cleaning such a coating is a rather laborious process, and the appearance is not particularly attractive.

This material is very often used in the form of decorating an apron in the kitchen. The glass surface is easy to maintain. The material is not afraid of high temperatures. Such panels with a printed pattern are quite popular, which can be ordered to your liking. But one of the disadvantages of such a coating is fragility.

It is the most demanded material on the market for finishing a kitchen apron. PVC panels are very durable. They are not afraid of temperature extremes and high humidity. In addition, the panels serve as good sound insulation.

The cost of such material is available to absolutely everyone. And also a huge plus is a large assortment of drawings, patterns and textures, including 3D. Such material can imitate both natural wood and stone.

But besides the pros, there are also disadvantages. They might look cheap. And in the space between the wall and the material, bacteria and fungi can multiply. Not resistant to mechanical damage.

MDF panels, unlike their competitors, can cost more, but the material is undoubtedly of higher quality. It is durable and can withstand significant loads. MDF panels are a safe and environmentally friendly type of coating. Usually it has a wood pattern, so it will fit into any interior.

The material is resistant to mold and bacteria. Installation does not take much time and does not require any special knowledge. During operation, MDF panels can be decorated with different patterns, since they are easy to process. Easy to care for.

Skinali are glass panels for walls with photo printing applied to them. The glass in this case is tempered.

These panels will add flavor to any kitchen. With the right material, you can significantly expand the space. Any pattern can be applied to glass.

Various still lifes and flowers can awaken the appetite, but, as practice shows, both landscapes and city views look very harmonious.

Very often, such panels are installed with additional illumination, which increases their effectiveness and makes the atmosphere mysterious.

This material is very expensive. For finishing, you will need to resort to the help of specialists. Installing natural stone as an apron requires special skills.

The stone will give the room an expensive and noble look. Such material is well suited for decoration in a country house, but in a city apartment it may look too pretentious. Unless the entire interior in the kitchen is made in eco-style.

Such an apron is not afraid of humidity and temperature changes, but taking care of it is quite laborious. It will hardly be possible to cope without the help of specialists.

Mosaic is one of the most popular types of apron finishes. Previously, it was made from tiles. Now there are many materials that can create a mosaic effect.

Most often PVC is used for the production of panels. Their cost is low. Installation also does not require special skill. Most often, glue or liquid nails are used for fastening.

The only drawback of this material is the clogging of the gaps between the mosaic details. But with regular and high-quality care, the original appearance will remain throughout the entire period of operation.

When deciding on repairs, people try to find materials that will last a long time and will not require huge financial investments. Making an apron in the kitchen is no exception.

The choice should be made according to several criteria.

• Wear resistance.
• Life time. On average, this is 10-12 years. The ideal option would be MDF, PVC.
• Decide on the color scheme of the kitchen set, its style. The panels should harmoniously fit into the interior, and not be an independent element of it.

• Care should be simple. For example, cleaning a natural stone should be done with a special solution so as not to damage the structure, and best of all, call a specialist.
• Price category. Of course, the cheapest materials will not pay off, so if you are not a luxury connoisseur and your budget is in the average category, then PVC, MDF and tempered glass are worth considering.
• Study the manufacturers. Preference should be given to trusted manufacturers. This will be a guarantee of quality and safety.

Using these recommendations, you can choose material that will serve you for a long time and with high quality.

You can do the finishing of the apron yourself only if plastic, film or MDF is used as the material. But when working with natural stone or glass, it is worth resorting to the help of specialists.

Glass is a rather fragile material, and if it is installed incorrectly, then there is a risk of damaging it soon. And this also applies to the drawing. Experts will be able to create the effect of a uniform pattern, but you can spoil it yourself. This will be a big disadvantage.

Different materials are attached to the wall in different ways. It can be glue, self-tapping screws. To install some, it is necessary to make a wooden crate in advance, which will help to install the apron even on a skewed surface.

Before proceeding with the installation of the apron, you must make sure that the material does not require mandatory leveling of the surface. If the walls are completely skewed, then select the color scheme taking into account the irregularities. In no case should an apron with a photo print be installed on such a wall.

Option for decorating a kitchen apron with tiles.The harmonious combination of shades gives integrity to the room and a finished look. Tile is now less popular, most often it is used by old-timers. They value it for its quality and durability. (Photo 1)

The apron is made of printed glass panels. Volumetric flowers are the main accent in the kitchen, as the whole interior is made in pastel colors. A great option for minimalism style. (Photo 2)

Shown here is an apron made of PVC panels. It is made in a single white color and goes well with a light wood kitchen set. Installation of such an apron is simple, does not require additional leveling of the walls. Due to the uniform color, the wall will visually appear even. (Photo 3)

Design option with PVC panels with 3D printing. Beautiful and mesmerizing mountain views. 3D printing has long won the hearts of not only consumers, but also designers. Thanks to such drawings, the interior can look completely new, non-standard. (Photo 4)

Backlit glass backsplash option. Nice and effective. The use of additional light sources gives a special charm to the interior. (Photo 5)

Here is a stone apron. As you can see, this coating looks very nice, but due to the structure it is quite difficult to maintain. Natural stone looks very expensive and luxurious. Suitable for connoisseurs of natural materials and eco-style lovers. (Photo 6)

How to install a kitchen apron, see the video below.