If you’re sick of scrubbing grubby grout lines or seeing grease creepily destroy your paint job, installing an acrylic kitchen splashback is a no-brainer. It’s chic, convenient, and easier to install than you might imagine. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to call in a tradesperson – this is a DIY task anyone can tackle with a bit of guidance.
In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through fitting an acrylic splashback to your kitchen, from preparation to polish, with expert tips that work.
Why Choose an Acrylic Kitchen Splashback?
First things first – why choose acrylic?
The acrylic sheets do not require any grout, which makes them appear seamless and smooth in comparison to kitchen splashback tiles, which can be pretty fiddly and messy to install. They are not hard to clean, affordable, lightweight, and come in a wide range of colours and finishes. There is also a solution, such as gloss acrylic splashbacks or coloured acrylic sheets, that can update your kitchen in no time, without the need for an entire renovation.
If you want a stunning splash of colour or a modern, clean look, acrylic splashbacks for kitchens are designed to meet and exceed all your expectations.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the details, gather your tools and supplies. Here’s your list:
Materials:
- Acrylic kitchen splashback panels (cut to size)
- High-quality adhesive (such as solvent-free grab adhesive)
- Masking tape
- Sandpaper (fine grit)
- Silicone sealant (clear or colour matched)
- Non-abrasive cleaning spray
- Methylated spirits or isopropyl alcohol
Tools:
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Pencil
- Fine-tooth saw or jigsaw (if trimming is required)
- Caulking gun
- Cloths/microfibre rags
- Suction cup lifters (optional but handy with large panels)
Step 1: Measure and Plan
Measure twice, cut once. This sounds easy, but this is the step where most folks lose the plot.
Decide which area you want to cover – behind the hob, sink, or across the entire worktop.
Measure the height and width of every section. Make sure you take into consideration sockets, switches, and cupboards.
If you don’t feel confident in cutting the panels yourself, most suppliers will cut to size before delivery. That’s one less issue to worry about.
Always measure twice before you buy kitchen and bathroom splashbacks, comparing them to the product listing or your custom order form.
Step 2: Prepping the Surface
- You will also need a smooth, dust-free, and dry surface to which the adhesive can be applied.
- Take off old tiles or rough surfaces. When working over existing tiles, ensure they are clean and completely intact.
- Sand down surfaces that have been painted lightly so that the adhesive can adhere.
- Wash the region with warm water and a light soap. Clean with alcohol or methylated spirits to clean off grease or residue.
This preparation work is what keeps your installation lasting, so don’t avoid it.
Step 3: Dry Fit the Panel
Install your acrylic splashback for kitchen area in place without adhesive. This ensures that everything is lined up correctly, including socket cut-outs.
- Insert spacers (2-3mm) between the worktop and the bottom of the splashback to allow for minor movement.
- Check alignment with a spirit level.
- Apply masking tape to mark any trimming or adjustments which need to be made.
In case you need to cut off a panel, a fine-tooth saw or jigsaw can be used. Slowly cut and always support the sheet to prevent chipping.
Step 4: Apply the Adhesive
Now the magic begins.
- Turn the panel over and apply zig-zag beads of adhesive, about 5-8 cm apart. Don’t put it too close to the edges – it will spread.
- If you’re using gloss acrylic splashbacks, take special care not to smudge or scratch the exposed side.
Tip: If you’re fitting more than one panel, mark the backs clearly – once the adhesive is applied, you’ll need to work quickly and efficiently.
Step 5: Stick and Press
Lift the panel with suction cups or by the edges with care, and press it into position. Begin at one end and move across to prevent air bubbles from forming.
- Press the sheet against the wall carefully with your hands.
- Apply pressure evenly across the surface.
- Support the panel with masking tape until the adhesive dries.
- Allow it to stand untouched for at least 24 hours. Refer to the adhesive instructions to determine the precise curing time.
Step 6: Final Details
Once your panel is safe, you need to seal the edges.
- Apply silicone sealant on the bottom and sides of the panel.
- Rub the sealant smooth with a wet finger or silicone tool.
- Wipe off excess before it sets.
This step keeps moisture out and gives your splashback a professionally fitted appearance.
When you choose brightly coloured acrylic sheets, getting the edges sealed up neatly can make the colour stand out against your worktops.
Step 7: Clean and Reveal
After you have everything dry and closed, simply strip the protective film from the face of your acrylic kitchen splashback.
- The initial clean-up should be done with a soft cloth using a gentle cleaner.
- Never use harsh chemicals or scrubbing pads- acrylic is scratchable when mishandled.
And there you have it – a shiny, eye-catching new kitchen centrepiece, all installed by your very own hands.
Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free DIY Adventure
Handle acrylic panels with care at all times – they’re robust, but not infallible.
If you’re installing panels behind a gas hob, ensure there is proper clearance; otherwise, consider using a heat-resistant panel.
Avoid haste in the curing of the adhesive. It’s tempting, but patience is a virtue.
When to Call in a Pro
This DIY manual makes it sound easy – and for many homeowners, it is. But if you’ve got tricky corner joins, wonky walls, or cooker hoods built in to contend with, hiring a professional fitter can be time (and sanity)-saving. Fitting services are sometimes available from some suppliers when you buy kitchen and bathroom splashbacks online.
Conclusion: Get Your Supplies Ready!
Fitting your acrylic kitchen splashback doesn’t require a degree in DIY – just good planning, the right tools, and a bit of confidence. Whether you’re updating a rental property or revamping your forever home, acrylic is a brilliant, low-maintenance, modern choice.
And if you’re in search of high-grade gloss acrylic splashbacks or custom-cut coloured acrylic sheets, look no further than Perfect Splashbacks – a reputable UK supplier providing fashionable, robust and easy-fit splashback solutions for kitchens and bathrooms alike.