Glass or acrylic splashbacks are ideal for adding style and practicality to your kitchen. But how do you create that sleek aesthetic if you have an oddly shaped kitchen or you’ve never installed a splashback before? That’s where using templates and guides can help you to produce great results.

Finalise your choices

Once you’ve decided on your kitchen layout and your decor choices, you can start to measure up for your splashback. Will it cover only the area between your hob and extractor fan or would you like the splashback to run across the tops of any cabinets next to the hob? Will your splashback fit between base and wall cabinets or would you like to run it all the way to the ceiling?

Standard or custom?

If your design choices are simple, you may be able to order standard sheets and then cut them to size where necessary. But if you want to create a design statement in your kitchen, you’ll probably need a custom cut panel that creates the seamless, contemporary look you’re after.

Measure up

Find a template that most closely resembles the shape of splashback you require and start taking the relevant measurements – most splashbacks are square, rectangular or an inverted T, L or C shape, so simply pick the template that’s closest to the shape you need.

Add your measurements in millimetres, using your chosen template as a guide, and always add a 3mm expansion gap where your panel meets the hob, extractor or worktop. Then measure again to check for accuracy – time spent at this stage can save you having to make adjustments later.

Adjusting your splashback

Once you receive your custom made splashback, you’re ready to install. The first thing to do is make sure that your panel fits perfectly into the space it’s designed for – if you’ve measured accurately then this step should be a breeze. Don’t worry if you need to make adjustments, as there’s a handy guide to help you get the installation just right.

If you follow the guide, you’ll make short work of any adjustments allowing you to cut your acrylic panel without cracking or splintering for professional results. Using templates and guides ensures that you get a great fit first time, allowing you to install quickly and easily for a superb result.