Budget-Friendly Splashback Makeovers: Using Paint, Tiles or Acrylic for a Fresh Kitchen Look

A kitchen splashback is usually the most prominent feature in any kitchen. Besides, they are the walls' guardians against splashes, stains, and steam, while they are the driving force behind the overall design. No matter how small a piece of the wall, it can radically change your kitchen's vibe if updated in a smart way.

Luckily, to refresh your area, you do not require a complete renovation. You can modernise your splashback area in no time and at a reasonable cost with a handful of smart choices.

This article will review three of the best budget-friendly splashback options - paint, tiles, and acrylic each with its own style, utility, and value.

Why Update Your Kitchen Splashback?

As the splashback is placed at the level of our eyes, it is, therefore, the first thing that people see. A surface that is stained or looks old can make a tidy kitchen look worn out. Updating it would allow you to comfortably bring back not only the freshness but also the temperament of your kitchen.

Besides, renewing your kitchen splashback is one of the least expensive ways to give your kitchen a facelift. Changing the cabinets or the big fixtures is a big deal; you just change the splashback, and therefore, with the smallest disturbance, you create a visible impact.

Before making a bet on it, it would be a good idea to choose the surface of the kitchen splashback:

• Budget: How much would you be willing to put down as a down payment?
• Skill level: Do you have the skill level to do it yourself, or will you prefer to have an easy way out?
• Durability: What amount of heat, moisture and dirt will the area be subjected to?
• Style: Is it a light, strong, traditional or contemporary one?

These factors help you filter for the best budget splashback options for your residence.

Best Budget Splashback Options

Painted Splashbacks

A splashback area can be changed in a couple of minutes with paint. It is a cheap and fast way to do the job, and there are no limits as to the colour.

Advantages of Painted Splashbacks:

• Very cheap among all alternative options
• Weekend project that can be done fast
• Quick and easy to change when a lifestyle trend comes
• Can be done with countless finishes and colours

Different paint recipes that are suitable for kitchens:

• Tile paint: Perfect for giving new life to old ceramic tiles
• Heat-resistant paint: The best choice for a heating source
• Moisture-resistant paint: It helps the paint not to peel off in humid areas

Step by step: Methods of Splashback Painting

1. Clean the surface to remove the grease and dirt.
2. Lightly sand the tiles or walls to help the paint stick better.
3. Put on a suitable primer.
4. Apply paint in layers, making sure each layer is dry before the next.
5. Make it moisture-resistant by putting a clear topcoat.

Advantages:

• The cheapest alternative
• Easy to personalise
• Very little mess or disruption

Disadvantages:

• Not as durable as tiles or acrylic
• There can be a need for regular touch-ups if the area is near a source of heat

Tiled Splashbacks

Why have tiles remained a favourite for decades? Their design is timeless, they are heat-resistant, and they are the perfect solution for budget makeovers.

Types of tiles for affordable projects:

• Ceramic tiles - easy to find and cheap
• Subway tiles - simple and stylish
• Mosaic sheets - convenient to install with a few cuts

How to tile a kitchen splashback:

1. Measure the area and plan your layout.
2. Use a notched trowel to evenly spread tile adhesive.
3. Set the tiles using spacers to keep the gaps uniform.
4. Allow the adhesive to set, then apply grout.
5. Brush off excess grout and sealant, if necessary.

Styling ideas with low-cost tiles:

• Classic white subway tiles with contrasting grout
• The vertical stacking for a modern twist
• Mid-height tiling to add the visual interest and not overspend

Advantages:

• Heat-resistant and durable
• A great number of shapes and finishes to choose from
• Visual and monetary impact are being raised

Disadvantages:

• Painting requires less time than tiling
• Some DIY skill or professional help is needed

Acrylic Splashbacks

An acrylic splashback is a lightweight, budget-friendly alternative to glass or tiles. It offers a sleek, modern look without the high cost.

Why is it affordable?

Acrylic is far less expensive to produce and install than glass panels, but it can still have a glossy look.

Main points of installation:

1. Use a fine-toothed blade to cut the panels down to the necessary size.
2. Coat the back with plenty of glue.
3. Attach the panel to the wall, press firmly, then smooth out any air pockets.
4. To give it a neat look, finish the edges with trim.

Where is acrylic best used?

Acrylic can be installed behind sinks or on the worktops. In addition, low-heat zones are suitable for acrylic (do not place it directly behind gas hobs unless it is heat-resistant).

Advantages:

• The fitting can be done in a very short time
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Bold colours and patterns are available

Disadvantages:

• Acrylic is not to be placed in areas of very high heat
• Compared to glass, it is more prone to scratches

Quick Comparison Table: Best Budget Splashback Options

Splashback Design Ideas On a Budget

If you need ideas, here are some cheaper splashback design ideas that will help you style your place to the maximum with minimum work and expenses:

• Paint colour blocking: Two contrasting colours are used to create an elegant and trend-setting appearance.
• Patterns on tiles: Herringbone, chevron, vertical layering, or alternating rows can be applied to make the wall more attractive to the eye.
• Be bold to go with acrylics: Select an intense colour or fake textures such as marble or metallic panels.
• Mix and match walls: You can paint half the wall with a border or install panels of acrylic tiles to divide a neutral space.
• Small kitchens appear larger: light colours, a glossy floor, or vertical tiling will give the eye a lift.

Picking The Most Suitable Option For Your Kitchen

Each of them has its advantages:

• Paint: The most affordable, most suitable paint is for renters and DIY beginners.
• Tiles: Long-lasting and suitable for high-heat areas.
• Acrylic: Ideal for fast changes and minimal kitchen maintenance.

As you consider features like cost, durability, and effort, you should also think about your cooking habits, the amount of moisture, and the frequency of redecoration.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

DIY methods work well for:

• Painting
• Stick-on tiles or mosaic sheets
• Simple cutting of acrylic panels

Consider a professional when:

• Tiling a large or uneven surface
• Working around sockets or tricky corners
• Installing splashbacks near heat sources

Budget planning tips:

• Quotations should be obtained before work begins
• Materials should be bought during sales
• Taking measurements should prevent wasting

Tips on How to Keep Your Splashbacks in Good Shape for a Long Time

By following simple steps, you can do your best to keep your splashbacks in a good state:

• Painted surfaces: Wipe with mild detergent; avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Tiled splashbacks: Grout must be washed in time so that it does not become stained.
• Acrylic splashbacks: Use a warm, soapy cloth that is not scratchy.

To prevent wearing or damaging:

• Annual sealing of the grout
• Repaint when necessary
• Small cracks or loose tiles should be fixed quickly

Conclusion

You do not have to spend a lot of money or cause inconvenience if you want to refresh your kitchen with paint, tiles, or an acrylic splashback. These are the best budget splashback options to help you transform your space without tearing it down. If you want stylish, long-lasting, and low-priced solutions, then brands like Perfect Splashbacks, with their wide range of choices, are just what you need to get a fresh new look with the least trouble ‍‌possible.

FAQs

1. What is the cheapest alternative for a splashback makeover?

Painting is the cheapest option in most cases, and the second option is acrylic panels if you need a more detailed look.

2. Is it okay to place an acrylic panel that is heat-resistant behind the stove?

A panel that is made from heat-resistant material is safe for electric hobs. Standard acrylic should never be placed behind gas hobs.

3. Are tiles still a good choice for small kitchens?

Yes, light coloured or shiny tiles reflect light, thus making small spaces appear ‍‌larger.

4. How long will it take to paint a splashback?

Usually, the work and dry time between coats takes a day in total.