Using the choice of a huge variety of facing tiles, presented by the modern building materials market, everyone wants to get the most practical and aesthetic kitchen interior. When making an apron, you can use universal recipes, choosing combinations of different types and parameters of tiles. However, you can create your own design solutions that will be embodied in the optimal style of wall decoration near the working area in the kitchen.
Ceramic tiles are perfect for creating an apron in the kitchen.
An apron for the kitchen can be designed using products offered by different manufacturers of ceramic facing material. So, you can prefer products whose sizes vary from 10x10 cm to 50x50 cm and even more, you can also choose rectangular products that resemble bricks.
Ceramic tiles, the size of which is 10x10 cm, are especially popular among conservative consumers who adhere to the style of the French and English classics. Such products are perfect for creating panels in the style of Provence or country.
The tile occupies a leading position among finishing materials. It is easy to install, quite reliable and practical.
The technology for laying such tiles is quite laborious, but the process can be simplified by using ceramic or porcelain stoneware products, the parameters of which are 30x30 cm or more.
The luxurious design of mosaic-like products is able to compensate for its significant cost, as well as impracticality.
When choosing a tile to create an apron for the kitchen, you should not rely on the rules created and recommendations given by someone, you need to purchase material that will be closest to personal ideas about everyday comfort in the kitchen space.
Tools and materials
- car sponge;
- plaster;
- ceramic tile;
- adhesive composition for tiles;
- grout;
- building level;
- saw with tungsten filament;
- rubber spatulas;
- small notched trowel;
- tile cutter.
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Wall preparation process
It is important to level the surface before starting the process of laying tiles that are supposed to be enclosed in an apron. If the work involves the use of oversized products, then alignment becomes one of the important tasks, the successful implementation of which will guarantee high-quality installation. It is possible, of course, to level the walls during installation, compensating for irregularities with a layer of glue, but only a professional can do this qualitatively.
That is why it is preferable to eliminate irregularities even before laying, using plaster.
The main tool used in tile work: 1 - plastic tank; 2 - grater with a sponge; 3, 4 - metal grater; 5, 6 - notched trowel; 7 - rubber grater; 8 - brush.
You should follow some rules when making an apron. So, the distance from the floor surface to the beginning of the apron should be 80 cm, it is important to consider here that the height of the apron is approximately 75 cm, which is 7 tiles in height when using products with dimensions of 10x10 cm. It is also necessary to take into account the width of the seams.
Next, you can make markings on the surface of the wall, according to which the laying will be carried out. The horizontal line will help you understand where to start laying the first row. It is necessary to install a bar along the line, which is fixed to the wall using dowels. It is also necessary to make vertical markings, which will allow the masonry to be laid as evenly as possible. Such strips should be installed under the entire initial row of tiles.
If you have to lay an apron for the kitchen, which is located in an apartment of a Khrushchev-type house, then it may be difficult to line the pocket. There are several options for decorating it, the first involves the use of drywall, which will eliminate the formation of zigzags in the apron, but this solution will cause a loss of usable area. The second option for decorating a pocket involves playing it with a headset.
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Adhesive preparation
For laying tiles, it is important not only to prepare correctly, but also to choose the right adhesive composition. If you intend to work with ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware, you can use the composition Ceresit CM11, it will be an excellent solution.
At 5 m 2, no more than 12 kg of the composition will take, however, in this example, fairly even walls are taken into account, which makes the glue consumption very insignificant. When working with draft walls, you should be prepared for the fact that the consumption of the composition will be greater.
Glue for laying tiles should be prepared, taking into account the recommendations of the manufacturer. Stirring until a homogeneous substance is obtained should be done with a perforator equipped with a nozzle.
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Kitchen apron laying technology
Some craftsmen advise initially covering a small surface of the wall with glue, and then fixing products on it. However, there are also opponents of the method who claim that this way the laying progresses very slowly, and the adhesive composition begins to dry out prematurely. In this case, efforts will have to be made to set the product to the desired level, which will be a very laborious process.
In order to distribute the composition over the surface, a spatula with teeth should be used. Such a tool allows you to leave grooves on the base, which helps to save the composition. Pressing in the tile causes the excess glue to be pushed out, and if you use a notched trowel, then much less glue comes out, it is easier to remove it than when applied in a continuous layer.
You can apply the technology of laying the apron in the kitchen from the central part of the wall. To do this, determine where the center of the wall is located. This will allow you to get equivalent trim products at the edges. However, the method is applicable only for larger tiles, so it is preferable to start work, following from the corner. Before doing this, you need to stand on the threshold of the kitchen, which will help determine which of its corners is less noticeable.
An apron for the kitchen will turn out to be aesthetic if equal seams between the products are observed, for this you should use plastic crosses. If tiles with similar dimensions are used, then crosses with a thickness of 2.5 mm can be used. They can be laid one by one for 4 products, that is, at the junction of four products, but it should be noted that after the composition dries, it will be difficult to remove the crosses. And if it is supposed to lay products not in squares, this method will not work, because the joints will not look like a cross. You can install crosses and sideways, which provides for entry between the products of only one end of the cross.
Laying mosaic tiles: 1- application of the solution to the surface; 2 - laying on the surface with a solution; 3 - pressing the tile with a rubber spatula to the base.
If there are sockets at the place where the tile kitchen apron will be laid out, they initially just need to be overlaid with products. It will be necessary to work on these areas after, but first they should be bypassed along the perimeter.
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When the tiles are laid on the first wall, you can proceed to work with the inner corner. Corners are often fixed in the corners, however, suitable fittings may not be available for sale, so the corner can be designed as a junction of products. In some cases, although the corner is on sale, it does not fit the design of specific products, so a design option that does not involve the use of a corner can also be successfully applied.
If the wall in some areas has deviations exceeding 1 mm, then the unevenness can be compensated by placing an additional amount of glue or by reducing the thickness of its layer.
The most difficult place in the process will be the outer and inner corners of the pocket. Here vertical deviations can become a difficulty. But in the place where the angle is least noticeable, even cut products can be used. You can trim with a tile cutter, but it is possible to use an alternative solution - a glass cutter.
Cutting products with a tile cutter is more accurate, while the corners do not form chips, and the incision can be made with maximum accuracy. Initially, it is necessary to draw a line on the product, then the tile can be laid in a tile cutter, and after one pass of the cutting element, it is permissible to try to break the product along the cut line. The resulting pieces can be laid in place on the wall surface.
In the process of designing an apron, you can change the color schemes of the tiles, then the interior of the kitchen will turn out to be more unusual.
If the kitchen apron was laid with some errors, then you should not leave them, you can get rid of them by correcting the situation. To do this, the incorrectly laid tiles must be removed from the general ensemble. The resulting space should be thoroughly cleaned, only after that the missing element can be glued into place.
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Making sockets on the apron
It will be possible to decorate the kitchen with high quality only when each element is aesthetically made, as well as the formation of holes for sockets on the apron. It is convenient if they end up in places where only small rectangular sections have to be arranged in the product, however, such cutouts are quite difficult to implement. After all, the product will break and form cracks. In order to form holes that will have a rectangular shape, you can use special pliers. But if such a tool was not at hand, then a hole in the apron in the kitchen can be made using a tile cutter. To do this, use a tool to make cuts in certain places, and then, using pliers, remove excess material. This option may not immediately give a positive result, which is why, if you have a limited amount of material, it is best to practice on scraps that can no longer be used in work.
If the sockets are in the kitchen on the surface of the apron, then they will have to be fixed using long self-tapping screws, which will also additionally mechanically strengthen the tile.
The most unfortunate option would be the one in which the sockets are located in the center of small products. In this case, it is necessary to form an element from the product that will resemble the letter “C” in shape. It is worth considering that a tile cutter will not help here. An alternative solution would be a tungsten filament instead of a cutting blade, which is used to install in a saw designed for metal work. Coated with a tungsten alloy, this steel cable is suitable for cutting porcelain stoneware, glass and ceramics at any angle. The apron will be able to arrange in places where there are sockets qualitatively within just 15 minutes.
So that readers do not have disagreements about the word apron, the authors consider it their duty to tell respected visitors to our portal that the article will focus on the surface of the wall between the desktop and wall cabinets, and not about a piece of clothing. Although not a single modern kitchen and not a single modern housewife can do without one or the other.
When repairing an apartment or building a house, people experience the greatest experiences not from the fact that they have to part with significant amounts, but from the incredible pangs of choice. The number of offers of materials, color and design solutions, various services is so huge that their choice takes much more time than the actual repair itself. This also applies to the kitchen apron. But the authors can immediately answer the main question of readers - what is the best apron? The answer is unequivocal: the best apron is a hand made apron, regardless of what material. About how to make an apron in the kitchen with your own hands, and there will be our article. And, of course, attention will be paid to "insignificant little things" 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 an apron or hem), it becomes clear that it was originally conceived as an item of work clothing needed to protect against pollution that inevitably accompanies the cooking process. Polish and German linguists are still arguing over who rightfully owns this word, although this convenient thing was used not only by them, but by most peoples in the world. Therefore, let the etymological battles pass by the world of reasonable people, that is, you and me. The main thing is to understand that the first and main purpose of the apron is protection.
However, who said that protection should be rough and ugly? It can be beautiful, it can please the eyes of its owners, while not forgetting about its main function. And the modern variety of materials and technologies allows you to harmoniously get along with both functionality and beauty. But if suddenly there is a choice of what to sacrifice, then the unequivocal answer is this - you can sacrifice a little beauty in favor of functionality, but you can’t do the opposite.
What is a kitchen apron for?
Glass kitchen aprons
Most people have a subconscious fear of glass. It is associated with something extremely fragile, brittle and sharp. However, glass to glass is different. Now tabletops, chairs and even stairs are made from it. Not bypassed this wonderful material and kitchen aprons.
Glass for aprons is not used ordinary, but tempered, 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 it should be noted that it can be performed in different ways:
- Firstly, transparent glass can be used, which is fixed on a wall pasted over with photo wallpaper. This is the most budget option, but it should be noted that moisture can penetrate into the gap between the wallpaper and glass, which will ruin the wallpaper or contaminate the glass, which will ruin the whole look.
- Secondly, the image can be printed on a vinyl film, which is glued from the back. 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 of the apron using UV (ultraviolet) printing technologies.
- Fourthly, the image can be printed with UV ink inside glass - triplex. This is the best, but also the most expensive option.
- And, finally, modern technologies make it possible to print three-dimensional 3D images on kitchen aprons as well. These aprons look very unusual, they are very expensive.
Glass aprons can be "revived" by competently using LED lighting mounted both outside and inside the glass. Illumination can be either monochrome or color. You can arrange different lighting scenarios for different moods. The modern market of materials for the repair and design of premises 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, they are moisture resistance, chemical inertness, strength, ease of cleaning, beautiful and original look. Of the shortcomings, it is worth noting the high price and the fact that this is still glass, which can collapse under shock loading. Aprons made of tempered glass or triplex do not form sharp traumatic fragments when broken. But it still will not return the spent a lot of money.
Glass kitchen aprons can also be fastened both through fasteners and with the help of special elements. When taking measurements and planning the working space of the kitchen, it is always worth considering everything that will be installed on the backsplash. It can be several sockets, switches, holes for attaching railings - a hinged system for placing all kitchen utensils. Just like 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, professionals.
Metal kitchen aprons
For those who intend to create for real, metal aprons are specially offered. They look very unusual and in some cases even beautiful. Fans of the techno or loft style can 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 in metal aprons is very thin, about the same as in mirror aprons.
Metal aprons can be made as large sheets of stainless steel, as well as tiles and even mosaics. The functional qualities of the metal are doubtful. With good hygiene, the metal has excellent adhesion to all types of kitchen dirt and is very capricious in choosing cleaning products. It does not tolerate abrasives.
It was previously noted that it is better to completely entrust the installation of an apron from 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 an apron, and what requirements the room must meet.
Room and surface requirements
Installation of aprons made of MDF, glass or plastic panels can be done even when the kitchen set is installed. Not only is it possible, but even necessary, since a very high measurement accuracy is required, which will allow you to perfectly fit the apron 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 have to do this.
If the apron is made of ceramic tiles, porcelain stoneware, mosaics, natural or artificial stone, then wet processes are indispensable here. Therefore, the furniture should not be next to the walls where the backsplash will be, but the exact dimensions of the furniture and how it will be installed (the height of the countertop, the height of the cabinets, the distance between the work surface and the lower plane of the cabinets) should be known.
What are the requirements for the kitchen for the installation of an apron.
- Windows should 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 leveled with the topcoat already applied. Naturally, it should be flat and horizontal.
- The temperature in the kitchen should not be lower than +5°C and not more than +30°C, humidity should not exceed 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 must be puttied with polymer-cement mixtures based on white cement.
Kitchen apron layout
On a wall completely ready for facing, it is necessary to mark the position of the future apron. But for this, there must be a clear idea of \u200b\u200bthe placement of the kitchen set. It is best if it is already purchased and a scheme for its placement is 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 lower plane of the wall cabinets, and it is desirable that the apron go 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 do 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 household appliances are often built into the set: washing machines and dishwashers, freezers. Therefore, in most cases, a height of 88-90 cm is made, and people with “outstanding height” (more than 200 cm and less than 150 cm) will not have to bend over or bounce, there will just be a slight inconvenience that they get used to very quickly.
Most of the manufactured kitchen sets are made for the convenience of people of average height. - If a standard dome hood is used, then the apron should continue in height across its entire width and reach its lower edge, and it is better if it goes under the hood for a distance of at least 5 cm or, even better, reach the ceiling. At the same time, for the side surfaces of the cabinets, it is recommended to start the apron also at a distance of at least 5 cm.
- The height of the lower edge of the hood dome above the countertop must be at least 65 cm for electric stoves, and 75 cm for gas stoves.
- The standard width of gas or electric cookers or hobs can be 30 cm, 45 cm, 50 cm or 60 cm. There are sizes and more, 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, an hood should be selected 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 with a call to the side walls, this is especially true in the area where the sink or stove is located, if they are located at the edges. It 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, of course, is more convenient to work, but hydraulic also gives very high accuracy. It is desirable 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 sizes. For markup you need:
- On the wall where the kitchen set will be installed, a mark is made from one of the edges of the position of the upper plane of the countertop.
- The level mark is transferred to the other edge of the wall.
- With the help of a paint cord, the horizontal line of the countertop position is beaten off.
- If necessary, if the kitchen is angular or the apron will go to 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 dimensions of a particular kitchen set, which will subsequently be installed in the kitchen.
- The position marks of the lower edge of the wall cabinets are transferred to all walls where the kitchen apron will be installed.
- On the marked parallel lines, the location of the stove or hob is marked.
- The position of the lower edge of the hood dome is marked (at least 65 cm for electric stoves, 75 cm for gas stoves from the countertop).
- The position of the side surfaces of the wall cabinets is noted at the location of the hood dome, it should freely enter 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 go at least 5 cm under the hood, but it is better to do it up to the ceiling.
After these actions, the location lines of the future kitchen set will be marked on the wall. But, as noted earlier, it is desirable to make an apron so that its surface goes a little under the countertop or set. For the countertop and the lower edge of the wall cabinets, it is advisable to deepen the apron to a distance of at least 20 mm, and in the area where the hood is located on the left and right, the apron must be deepened under the cabinets to 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 beaten off
When planning and marking the apron, the size of the tile or mosaic to be used should also be taken into account. For example, if the tile is 20 cm high, then it is completely logical that it is beneficial to make three rows of tiles of 20 cm each, and make the gap between the tabletop and the lower edge of the wall cabinets 56 cm, taking into account the fact that 2 cm from above and below will go under furniture. If tiles of other sizes will be used, then this must also be taken into account. If decorative elements are used - friezes and borders - then it is necessary to ensure that they are visible. What is the point of using expensive items that will be hidden from view under the furniture. Each case is individual and requires its own differentiated approach.
After applying 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 lower 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 lower surface of the cabinets in the hood area. All entries 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 calculator automatically takes into account.
An apron is a covering of a 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 pollution. To make it easier for you to choose, we have compared the most practical and effective workspace finishes according to five important criteria. Tips from professionals on what to make an apron for the kitchen, comparison of the best materials and real photos of beautiful aprons - in this article.
Correct dimensions
- 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 headset. It is more convenient for a low hostess to hang the upper modules lower, leaving 40-55 cm between the tabletop and the lower edge of the cabinets. The edges of the finishing material should go under the lower / upper cabinets for a couple of centimeters.
- As for the width, most often the entire wall is covered with a decorative coating along the worktop - from edge to edge of kitchen furniture. If you wish, you can limit yourself to small protective inserts only in the sink and hob area.
- In a kitchen with a gas stove, the distance between the hob and the hood should be at least 75-80 cm. Consider this ledge in the design of the kitchen.
- The apron of a kitchen set without upper cabinets should be brought to the very ceiling.
We select color and design
- Decide in advance which apron is better to choose for the kitchen - a bright accent or neutral, which will only become a backdrop for a beautiful set.
- A white backsplash (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: drops of water and splashes of grease on it will be especially noticeable.
Photos of kitchen aprons: top 5 best materials
Ceramic tile
The best option in terms of price, quality, durability and convenience. In the decoration of the apron, glazed wall tiles are more often used, less often thin and light porcelain stoneware. The most popular formats are 10x10, 15x15, 20x30 and 20x40 cm, as well as a different-sized "boar".
In the photo: an example of a stylish 10x10 cm tile apron with a patchwork pattern (Baiker collection from Bayker) The tile has many decors for different tastes and any budget. The surface of ceramics can imitate the texture of stone, wood, metal, concrete.
When choosing a tile for the kitchen on an apron, take a closer look at its texture: rough and embossed are difficult to keep clean, so you should give preference to glossy smooth.
Price. Making a ceramic apron will cost more than plastic, but much cheaper than glass and acrylic stone. In addition to the cost of the material, do not forget to include the cost of leveling compound, glue, grout, sealant and craftsmen in the calculation.
Mounting . Laying should be entrusted to a professional. The work area in a kitchen of any size is always the center of attention, and laying tiles flawlessly without experience is not easy. An important point: ceramics is for a long time. If the design does not like it, it will not be easy to change it.
Durability . Will easily last you 15 years or more.
Moisture resistance. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Care . ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
We have collected modern design ideas and photographs of aprons for the kitchen from tiles in real interiors in the selection below:
The original idea of an apron on the wall in the kitchen-living room with a modern interior 
Traditional kitchen design in Provence style 
Options for a bright kitchen with an apron made of photo tiles 
Strained glass
When choosing a picture or photo in the catalog for an apron for a glass kitchen, consider the color of the facades A beautiful and practical material, which in many properties is not inferior to ceramics. In the care of a glass apron is easier than it is commonly thought, and heat and moisture do not spoil its appearance.
The kitchen uses durable tempered glass 6 and 8 mm thick with different designs: transparent, painted, tinted, frosted and decorated with photo printing.
Price. Such a finish can hardly be called a budget one: 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 an 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 finalized), color proofs, installation, cutting holes for sockets and other services that are not obvious to an inexperienced buyer. The most inexpensive option is a transparent protective screen, the wall behind which can be painted with paint or pasted over with beautiful wallpaper.
Mounting . 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 give a 5 year warranty. Of course, we are talking about a quality product with UV printing with good inks.
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 to clean out numerous seams. It is enough to regularly wipe it with a damp sponge and soapy water and from time to time use a glass care product.
By choosing a light glass apron for a small kitchen (as in the photo), you will visually expand a small space 
Plastic
The best 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 finish options:
- Furniture panel made of MDF, chipboard and fiberboard, lined with HPL decorative plastic - plain or with wood, ceramic, stone, mosaic decor.
- PVC wall panels. Flexible screens are attached to the wall with glue and an aluminum profile. In terms of practicality and durability, MDF and chipboard are inferior: they are thinner, lose color faster, they cannot be installed in kitchens with a gas hob - they are deformed.
Price. The most budget option in our selection. A three-meter plastic panel in the same Leroy Merlin can be purchased for an average of 1.5-2.5 thousand rubles.
Mounting. An important advantage of a plastic apron when repairing a kitchen is an easy installation that even a beginner can handle. It is easy to make holes for sockets and rails in it right during the installation process.
Durability . Of all the materials in our review, this type of apron has the shortest lifespan. Compared to other options, it will lose its “face” the fastest 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 a high-quality MDF apron and close the joints with the countertop with a plinth, you should not be afraid of problems.
Care . ★ ★ ★ ★
It is enough to wipe the plastic apron with a damp microfiber cloth or a soft sponge. Make sure that water does not flood the edges, otherwise the base of the plate may warp and swell.
MDF kitchen apron with photo printing is best complemented with neutral facades and plain finishes 
The wood-look laminate worktop and backsplash are easy to combine with a white kitchen 
Mosaic
The contrasting finish of the mosaic apron will make the kitchen design bright and modern: the “chameleon” material looks different depending on the lighting and perfectly assembles the interior together.
Price. Compared to ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware, mosaics are a less profitable option for decorating an apron. The installation work and the necessary materials will also cost more: you will have to buy special glue and grout. If you want to save money - choose a tile for a mosaic. It is cheaper and greatly simplifies installation.
Mounting . Grouting numerous seams is a laborious process: it requires experience, time and great accuracy.
Durability . Will last for many years with no problems. The normal service life of a quality material is 20-25 years.
Moisture resistance. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Care . ★ ★ ★ ★
See the photos below for examples of real mosaic kitchen aprons (glass, ceramic, stone, metal):
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 the working area in our selection.
Mounting . Requires the work of experienced craftsmen, but there will be no dirt during installation.
Durability . With careful handling, acrylic stone will last you a very long time, but micro-scratches appear over time. To the credit of the material, it is easy to restore: grind cracks and build up chips. After polishing it will be like new.
Moisture resistance. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Care . ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
You can learn more about this finishing material.
Figured corian wall panel 
Stone apron is more often chosen for classic kitchen 7 MORE PHOTOS CLOSE 
Do you like expensive finishing material, and do you plan to do new repairs soon? Do not deny yourself the pleasure - you will admire the beautiful apron every day! Consider different options. Moreover, a typical kitchen needs very little decoration.
Laying tiles is considered to be one of the most responsible and precise works. It takes a lot of experience so that the tile lies exactly both in planes and horizontally, and the verticals of the seams are not littered.
If you tell your friends that you are going to lay a tiled apron in the kitchen yourself, you will most likely hear something like this (unless, of course, you are a professional tiler): What are you?! Look for a professional handyman, or finish three years of bursa, work five years in construction, and then you can try. All of this is largely untrue. If you think that you are the owner of fairly even hands, then all you need for high-quality laying of an apron is knowledge, proper preparation and the sequence of work. Of course, if you haven’t painted windows in your life, but are already fantasizing about laying tiles, then it’s better to listen to your friends and follow their recommendations. I just want to say that if you know the basic principles in construction, as well as physics and geometry, then this work will not be difficult for you.
Preparatory work
First of all, we clean our walls from dust, grease stains and other debris. Then we mark up with a pencil, draw the upper and lower borders. At the same time, we start from the given height of the future kitchen countertop and upper drawers, so that it would not be such that the drawers do not overlap the tiles - it will be annoying. After marking, prime the area under the tile with a deep penetration primer. If the wall is very absorbent, then apply again, an hour after the first primer. We recently, look.
Next, we need to create a support for the first row of our tiles so that it does not move out of its place. To do this, you need a metal profile - UD, used to create plasterboard structures. We will fix it for quick installation along the entire lower border of the future apron, thereby preventing the tile from moving. Now you need to figure out where it is better to start laying. How many whole tiles fit in a row and where will the pruning be. In my case, I started at the corner of the short wall, since there were almost four tiles for the entire wall. The cut was one and a half centimeters. On the next wall, it turned out not so clearly and contained five and a half tiles. Trimming should be done along the edges of the walls. The place that you will see when you wash dishes and cook is a corner. And this angle should be beautiful - without pruning.
Laying
After the guide profile has been screwed to the walls perfectly in level, we can start laying. As I said, we will start from the corner, cutting off one and a half centimeters with a grinder. We will apply tile adhesive both on the wall and on the tile, contrary to the old school masters who apply glue only to the wall or only to the tile. This is not correct, since the tile itself is not primed, and if it is stuck without smearing it with glue, it will quickly absorb moisture from the glue from the wall, which leads to quick drying. We apply glue to the wall using the “scratch” method. That is, with a trowel or spatula, we apply any arbitrary layer of glue, and then peel it off with the same spatula, leaving the minimum layer just necessary for excellent adhesion.
Adhesion (from lat. Adhaesio - sticking) in physics - adhesion of surfaces of dissimilar solid and / or liquid bodies. wiki.
Next, having applied it to the wall, put it on the tile and pressing a notched trowel at an angle of forty-five degrees, remove the excess mortar back into the bucket. Now we put the tile in its place and nail it with small strokes of the palm on the plane so that it sinks a little into the glue, but the main thing is not to overdo it. It is by this method
So, as now, we will fine-tune. We take a level, preferably a short one, and put it on the horizontal edge, correcting the minimum errors. You will have to trim in any case, even if the tile rests on the metal profile, there will be a minimum error, since the profile is not perfectly even, there are small waves on it. We put wooden caps or tiled crosses. We achieve a clear horizontal line. Now we put the level on the plane of the tile and control the vertical.
Done, now lay the adjacent tile using the same principles. Do not forget to insert crosses into the seams. The smaller the cross, for example, one and a half millimeters, the neater the work looks in the end, but also more difficult in the process. I want to say a few words about the glue layer. The smaller it is, the stronger the tile is held on the base.
For example, if you seal shoes and apply half a tube of glue ... It is unlikely that you will walk in such shoes for a long time. But if you clean the surface, degrease and apply a thin layer, then press it well, then after drying the result will suit you. The same with tiles. Therefore, at the beginning of work, you need to check how much the wall is curved, it may be worth plastering it before laying it. But if the differences are not large, then you can safely cope by adjusting the glue layer. Today we will lay only the first row, of course on both walls. We start laying the second row the next day, when the first one dries well.
It is necessary to finish the row, since the tile tends to be drawn into the wall, when the glue dries and the next day the plane will not be even. We continue laying according to the same scenario, but much faster. For masonry work you need to know. We have the first row perfectly laid out and now we do not need to jump with the level around each tile. We just put it in place and combine the plane, focusing on the corners of the dried row. We periodically add a rule and check that there are no gaps, as a result - an ideal plane.
The glue that has stepped onto the tile through the seams is well cleaned, the seams themselves are cleaned with a screwdriver.
We cut out the holes for the sockets either with a crown on ceramics, or carefully saw through with a grinder. Small crevices along the edge of the hole are not terrible, they will be covered by a plastic frame on the socket or switch.
If you have time on time, you can finish the job on the second day, leaving only grouting for the next. The grout is matched to the color of the tile, diluted with water and applied with an automotive rubber spatula, it allows you to fill the joint completely without leaving scratches on the tile.
After ten minutes, you need to wash the remaining grout well and trim the seams if necessary. After ten minutes, rinse again.
That's all. Summing up the work done, I can safely say that you do not need to have any super qualities and talents in order to achieve a proper result in something. With the motto - I see the goal - I see no obstacles, you can not only lay out a tiled apron, but also assemble a mezzanine from what has been in the pantry for years, but that's a completely different story.
Kitchen apron: materials and ideas
An apron for the kitchen is a part of the wall between the countertop and hanging cabinets, a necessary interior design element that protects the walls from moisture, soot and grease.
The height of the apron itself is about 60 cm.
Basic requirements for an apron:
- practicality and ease of care
- resistance to temperature changes
- chemical resistance
- attractive appearance
In order for the apron to serve faithfully and regularly please the eye, the choice of material for its device should be approached with all responsibility.
1. Materials for aprons
- Tile
- Glass
- Stone
- Mosaic
- Metal
- MDF
- Wall panels
- Plastic
- Wood
2. Design ideas
Types of aprons for the kitchen
The aesthetic and operational properties of the apron directly depend on the material from which it is made.
1. Tile
For the device of the apron, both ceramic and glass tiles can be used.
- Ceramic tile
Textured ceramic tiles are the most popular and practical material for creating an apron. The tile is not afraid of either fat or high temperatures, it is easy to clean and retains its original appearance for many years. Moreover, the backsplash makes the tile for the kitchen fire resistant, which is very important if you have a gas stove. The texture and color range of ceramic tiles are so diverse that they can imitate not only stone or wood, but also fabrics and animal skin.
Advantages of ceramic tiles:
- Practicality. The tile is easy to clean, and the dirt on it is not as noticeable as on glass or metal.
- Strength. Ceramics is resistant not only to moisture and high temperatures, but also to chemical reagents.
- Fire resistance.
- Variety of decor. A tile apron can be decorated with mosaics or photo printing, lay out panels or dilute with bright elements. Do not forget about the original styling methods.
- Long service life. Ceramic tiles will last about 15 years, glazed tiles - 25-30 years, and double-fired tiles - more than 50 years.
- Does not accumulate electrostatic charge.
Disadvantages of ceramic tiles:
- The complexity of laying (depending on the method)
- Time costs. Laying requires a number of preparatory work
- Cost of materials
- Difficulty of dismantling
- The presence of seams (reduces hygiene)
Ceramic tiles can make an apron both the center of attraction of the eye and an element that harmoniously fits into the overall style concept of the room.
- glass tiles
Glass tiles are used to create an apron for the kitchen, both in the usual form and in the form of a mosaic. Embossed or glossy, matte or transparent, patterned or solid - glass tiles not only add depth to the room, but also make it unique.
Advantages of glass tiles:
- Resistance to high temperatures (up to 150⁰С)
- Relative strength
- Long service life
- Excellent aesthetic performance
Disadvantages of glass tiles:
- Fear of shock and sudden changes in temperature
- The presence of seams made of hygroscopic materials
Glass tiles, especially transparent ones, require special preparation of the walls before installation.
Thanks to the combination of laying methods, it allows you to create real glass masterpieces.
2. Glass
The second most popular backsplash material after tiles is tempered glass. Glass apron for the kitchen not only looks original, but is also very practical. It is not afraid of either fat or moisture, all impurities are easily cleaned, not to mention the decorative possibilities of the material. Glass is used frosted and transparent, capable of emphasizing the beauty of the finishing material of the walls, textured and smooth, plain and patterned. Wall murals, textiles or decorative plaster can be placed under glass.
Often used to create a glass surface triplex- a panel of two glasses with a film between them. This film can be of different colors, with a picture or a photograph, children's drawings, dried leaves and flowers, recipes or fabric can be placed between the glasses.
Used for his device and skinali- glass panels on which the drawing is applied.
A mirrored apron will help visually expand a small space, but think about whether you want to see yourself close-up cutting vegetables or cutting meat.
Glass advantages:
- Practicality
- Aesthetics
- Originality
- Strength
- hygiene
- Durability
- Heat resistance
Glass disadvantages:
- Does not fit into every interior
- Markost
- High price
- Relative fragility
In order for the glass not to lose its strength, it must be freely attached to the mount. The glass is attached to the wall with clamps on silicone gaskets.
3. Stone
Natural stone for cladding is most often used in the interior, when a countertop is made of stone. At the same time, such furniture is very expensive, however, it looks the same.
The cheaper analogue is fake diamond, allowing you to create a monolithic surface of the countertop, turning into an apron. At the same time, you can both make the relief along the upper border, and make it multi-level. And if a natural stone absorbs moisture, then an artificial one is easy to scratch. You will have to get rid of scratches either by grinding or by fusing the polymer.
Ideally imitates a stone such a finishing material as lithoceramics- connection of ceramics and marble chips. The material has a lower weight compared to stone, a more affordable price and is attached to the glue.
Benefits of stone:
- Durability
- impact resistance
- Ease of care
- High temperature resistance
- hygiene
- Excellent aesthetic qualities
Disadvantages of stone:
- Significant weight, especially natural stone
- High cost (natural stone)
- Hygroscopicity
Mounted with tile adhesive, special mastics or mechanically.
4. Mosaic for an apron
The mosaic option is one of the most expressive and elegant ways of decor. Regardless of the material (glass, ceramics, metal), it is ideal for uneven surfaces, hiding all the flaws in the walls.
A mosaic backsplash made in pastel colors will harmoniously fit into the interior, and the use of a combination of bright colors will add dynamism to the room and play in contrast with the furniture and walls.
Mosaic Benefits:
- Beauty and originality
- Long service life
- moisture resistance
- Temperature resistance
Mosaic Disadvantages:
- High material and installation costs
- Laying complexity
- Lots of seams
- The need for epoxy grout
- Difficulty of dismantling
Mosaic, despite all the complexity of the device, is one of the most spectacular materials used in kitchen design.
5. Metal
Sheet stainless steel is the ideal material for a metal apron, in harmony with any type of finish. Steel sheets make it perfectly flat and fit perfectly into the high-tech interior.
In a Provence or Shabby Chic kitchen, it is better not to use it because of the visual coldness of the material.
A variation of the metal is a ceramic tile with a metallic coating, which gives the tile volume and decorative effect.
Metal advantages:
- Strength
- Heat resistance
- Long service life
- hygiene
- Resistance to mechanical stress
- fire resistance
- Excellent aesthetic performance
- Affordable price
Disadvantages of metal:
- Markost
- visual coldness
- Complexity of care
A metal apron for the kitchen is mounted with glue. At the same time, metal panels must first be fixed to moisture-resistant plywood with liquid nails, and only then hung on the wall.
6. MDF
MDF is perhaps one of the cheapest materials for an apron. Very often it comes with a furniture set, it is quickly manufactured and easy to assemble. MDF is inferior to ceramic tiles and stone only in strength, the resistance to moisture and mechanical damage of the material is quite high.
As for fire resistance, it is better not to use this material in kitchens with gas stoves.
Advantages of MDF:
- Affordable prices
- Ease of mounting and dismantling
- Versatility: fit into any style
- moisture resistance
- Resistance to mechanical damage
Disadvantages of MDF:
- fragility
- Flammability
- Tendency to deform
- The impossibility of additional decor
An apron for the kitchen from MDF is attached to liquid nails or staples to a special frame.
7. Wall panels
The material for the manufacture of wall panels can be MDF or metal-coated laminate.
Very often, wall panels are offered by furniture manufacturers, such an apron can both give integrity to the interior and add variety to the interior.
Advantages of wall panels:
- decorative
- Abrasion and chemical resistance
- hygiene
- Ease of mounting and dismantling
- Low prices
Disadvantages of wall panels:
- Low temperature resistance
- fragility
Wall panels are fastened during the installation of a furniture set to the back walls of the table and wall cabinet.
8. Plastic
This is the optimal ratio of price and quality, ease of installation and resistance to pollution. Creating an apron from PVC sheets is available even to a beginner, and the design of the front side will pleasantly surprise even the most demanding customer.
Advantages of plastic:
- Low price
- Relative strength and durability
- Variety of colors
Disadvantages of plastic:
- Not resistant to mechanical damage
- Deformed by water
- flammable
- Releases harmful substances
Installation of plastic is carried out with glue.
9. Wood
The use of natural wood is not always advisable, due to the operational characteristics of the material.
For the device of the apron, typesetting boards made of planks of hardwood are mainly used.
The surface of the shields is sanded and impregnated with oil, varnished or painted. Type-setting boards, in comparison with an ordinary tree, have less hygroscopicity.
Wood Benefits:
- Environmental friendliness
- naturalness
- decorative
Wood Disadvantages:
- Weak moisture resistance
- Weak heat resistance
- Markost
- Difficulty cleaning
Wooden plates are attached with glue, screws or dowels.
Kitchen Apron Design Ideas
The kitchen apron, in addition to protecting the walls from grease and dirt, also performs a decorative function. It can be either neutral, harmoniously fitting into the overall interior design, or a bright spot that catches the eye and uplifts the mood.
Neutral.
Does not attract attention, is a purely functional element. As a rule, it is selected to match the furniture set or the tone of the walls. Acceptable for creating a neutral apron are also beige, milky, tea rose and champagne.
contrast.
Looks great in the interior, made in the style of minimalism or Scandinavian style. It can both emphasize the color of the headset and draw all the attention to yourself. If the walls, furniture and curtains are made in the same color scheme, an apron for the kitchen, the color of which is a couple of tones different from the main tone, can dilute and enliven the interior.
Bright.
Creates a mood, but not for everyone. Requires the use of bright details of the same color in the decor (towels, accessories, skirting boards). However, remember that even the slightest mess will be noticeable against a bright wall.
Apron decoration.
For the device of an apron, you can use a mosaic, a thematic panel, skins with photo printing or a picture of your favorite artist, decorative insert tiles. At the same time, the main thing is to accurately calculate the amount of material, because it will be very disappointing if part of the plot panel is hidden behind the cabinets.
