Decorating a kitchen apron with tiles. We select the material for the kitchen apron - practical advice.

No one will argue with the statement that the kitchen is one of the most frequently visited and loved places in a house or apartment. The owners of spacious premises install sofas or large round tables to pass the evening at friendly gatherings or with family, they acquire expensive furniture. Owners of small ones also try to equip their tiny kitchenettes as comfortably as possible. Fortunately, today the market offers a huge number of accessories for this room and furniture sets. For any, as they say, taste and wallet. Nevertheless, in every kitchen, regardless of how and with what it is furnished, there is an area that is equipped in accordance with generally accepted rules. This is the space between the bottom and upper cabinets headsets. And they call it simply - an apron. And it must meet certain requirements and be made of special materials. We will talk about what types of aprons are and what they are made of in our review.

General requirements

All the types of aprons available today are so diverse that it is sometimes difficult to make a choice. However, in any case, it is worth remembering that the material from which you will make the cladding must meet very specific, and very stringent requirements. After all, an apron is an area located above the desktop and stove, so it is exposed to steam and all kinds of pollution more than all other places in the kitchen. Therefore, considering all available types of aprons, choose a material that can be easily and quickly cleaned. And even better, so that the dirt on it was not particularly visible. Well, this issue is solved more due to the pattern and colors.

Considering all the types of aprons for the kitchen offered by manufacturers, give preference to those products that are likely to be resistant to moisture and temperature changes, which means that they will serve for a long time and faithfully, without losing their visual appeal.

As far as design is concerned, here general requirements not today. An apron for the kitchen can be selected taking into account the color of the facades of the headset, countertops, wallpaper on the wall, or even choose an option that will look like a bright spot against the general background. As already mentioned, the types of aprons are very diverse, so there will be no problems at all in terms of design. We, in turn, will try to help with advice. And let's talk about what is most often lined with this area. That is, in other words, what types of aprons are most popular.

Tile

No matter how numerous the types of aprons offered by manufacturers, ceramic tile- a long-liver among all finishing materials for the kitchen - has always been and probably will remain in the first place. This facing material Lots of pros and almost no cons. It is durable, not afraid of temperature changes, easy to clean, in addition, it is fireproof, which is the first thing that owners should pay attention to. cookers. Dirt on the tiles is also less visible, as well as smudges of grease, especially if the colors are appropriate. The ceramic apron will have an initial attractive appearance over a long period.

What are there for an apron in the kitchen? Yes, very different! You can simply purchase a tile that is most suitable in color and pattern for the existing interior, thereby creating individual design, or you can buy ready-made panels. Or even order a photo print.

As for the shortcomings, there are perhaps only two of them. The first is that laying ceramic tiles with your own hands is sometimes quite problematic. Especially if the base coat is not particularly pleased with the quality. The second is that it is quite difficult to remove it from the walls if necessary. However, the issue is resolved. Carefully choose the material both in appearance and quality, and you will not have to face its shortcomings. But the price will certainly please.

mosaic apron

By and large, this is a type of tile. True, today mosaics are made not only from ceramics, but also from metal and glass. Highly modern version surface decoration above the desktop. It is especially suitable for cladding rounded surfaces. The disadvantages are similar to those of ceramic tiles, plus the cost of such a finish is much higher.

MDF

A budget option, such an apron is most often purchased along with when it is made to order. As for color solutions, here the choice is huge, but most often it is made the same as the countertop, which allows you to create harmonious design. Incidentally, this is the most budget solution. If someone wants the apron to be different, then you can order photo printing, that is, put it on MDF surface any picture you like.

As for the advantages, this is, first of all, the low cost of the material, and secondly, the ease of installation. Attach it to the wall using a frame or even, if the surface allows, using liquid nails. Removing such a panel from the wall is as easy as fixing it.

Among the shortcomings, it should be noted that such aprons are short-lived. Especially if you remove dirt from them using aggressive chemicals. In addition, it cannot be called a plus that these panels are combustible materials.

Glass

Considering the types of apron finishes and not lacking money, you can opt for glass version. Such panels appeared on the market relatively recently and they are quite expensive, but they have such an attractive appearance that few people regret the amounts spent. Unless only when faced with the shortcomings of such an apron. In second place among which (after cost) is the need for almost daily care. After all, even the slightest pollution is visible on the glass, what can we say about one that is located next to the surface on which borscht gurgles, diligently spraying greasy drops in all directions. So, if you have a glass apron in the kitchen, be prepared for the fact that with a rag and a cleaner you will have to stand near it every day.

As for the pluses, this is primarily the appearance. The glass panel can be just plain, and with a pattern printed on it. And in the latter case, manufacturers offer almost artistic masterpieces that are ready to decorate the wall not only in the kitchen, but also in the museum. Such an apron is made of solid dense, so that there are no seams on it, in which grease or dirt will accumulate. Well, to mount it yourself, of course, is also undesirable.

Plastic

This is the simplest and perhaps the most short-lived option. kitchen apron. It is inexpensive, but also does not last long. Since it scratches during cleaning, absorbs odors, and can be deformed by temperature changes, which, as you know, is not so rare in the kitchen. combustible But as mounted, and removed very quickly.

Mirror panels

An extreme option, but having the right to exist. First, it's unusual. Secondly, it's beautiful. Thirdly, you can visually expand the space of the kitchen. True, the last plus is rather doubtful. Due to the fact that the kitchen will visually become larger, you cannot put an extra refrigerator here, but all the shortcomings in the event that there has not been cleaning for a long time will also be visible on the other side of the desktop. In addition, such an apron, however, like ordinary mirror need to be washed very often.

Metal apron

A novelty on the market, which appealed to fans of hi-tech, minimalism and loft. It is made, as a rule, from stainless steel, and therefore it has an appropriate appearance. True, on sale you can also find corrugated options with a pattern embossed on them. Durable enough, not afraid of fire, steam, temperature changes, but also requires daily care.

Incidentally, this one and mirror version it is unlikely that it will be possible to install it yourself, since installation requires caution, skill and the presence of special fasteners and tools.

Stone kitchen apron

Made from both natural and artificial materials. The first ones are very expensive, and therefore they are not particularly popular. But the second ones are cheaper, they have far from the worst characteristics, in addition, they can imitate almost any surface. Such aprons are attractive in appearance, durable, easy to care for. Quite often, not only an apron is made of stone, but also a countertop, thereby creating an exquisite harmonious interior.

Conclusion

We tried to talk about what types of kitchen aprons are most popular today. As you can see, there is a choice. You can buy expensive finishes, or you can find more a budget option. In any case, you can be sure that there is a suitable material for almost any interior.

The kitchen apron is always in sight, it is a noticeable and important part of the image of any kitchen. But among other things, it is also a very loaded surface. The space above the working surfaces is exposed to temperature changes, constant exposure to moisture and not only drops of water, but also hot fat. That is why it is necessary to approach the choice of material for decorating a kitchen apron with special care and spend no less time than when choosing a suitable version of the facades of a kitchen set or raw materials for making countertops.

Currently, there are many options for finishing materials for sale for such difficult surfaces as the wall above the working area of the kitchen. Obviously, these should be non-staining materials that are easy to care for, use chemical cleaning agents when cleaning, they must be resistant to moisture and high temperatures. Of course, the way the apron is designed should not violate style harmony. kitchen space and please the owners of the kitchen with their appearance.

Before considering options for finishing materials for your apron, decide whether you want it to act as an accent element and attract all eyes, or do you need the surface above the work areas to merge with the general colors? Would you like to join a stone or wooden table top from the same material or do you want to save on finishing the apron? For what period of time (at least approximately) will the design of the apron in particular be calculated in general? When you have an idea of what kind of backsplash you want to end up with, comparing this knowledge with the budget for repairs, you can easily make the right decision. We hope that concrete examples designing aprons in modern kitchens will help and inspire you.

From modern materials Almost all of these requirements, one way or another, are met by the following:

ceramic tile;
mosaic;
stone (natural or artificial);
MDF panels;
tempered glass;
metal (steel, bronze, aluminum, brass, iron).

But we will consider each material for decorating the surface of the apron separately, we will deal with the pros and cons, which, of course, each option has.

Ceramic tiles for facing the kitchen apron

We can safely say that ceramic tiles (tiles, ceramics) are the market leader in materials for cladding, not only kitchen surfaces, but also any other utilitarian premises of our dwellings. Every homeowner who has ever faced the need to renovate the kitchen and bathroom knows perfectly well that in order to get a beautiful, practical and inexpensive cladding any planes, you can safely purchase ceramic tiles.

Advantages of using ceramics for decorating kitchen walls:

high level of practicality and durability. Ceramic tiles are not afraid of moisture and temperature changes, practically do not fade long years and retains the look that was when buying;
ease of operation. fresh spots are easily washed with a wet sponge, obsolete dirt can be cleaned with detergents;
universality in terms of harmonious integration into any style kitchen interior. All thanks to the variety of colors and textures, sizes and shapes of the range of this product produced today. finishing material. The tile can be monophonic and color, with drawing, an ornament and prints. The material can be produced in matte or glossy, with a smooth or textured surface. Tiles can effectively imitate stone or wood texture and fit perfectly into the interior of any style, from country style to modern manifestations of hi-tech or loft;
democratic value. The assortment of modern stores provides a choice of ceramic tiles, designed for different income levels of homeowners, and find suitable option everyone can. In addition, in many kitchens, the height and length of the kitchen backsplash are small and a small amount of tiles is needed to finish it. In this case, you can not save and choose the appropriate option not only in terms of cost, but also in appearance and workmanship.

Thanks to all these qualities, most of our compatriots, without hesitation, choose ceramic tiles for lining a kitchen backsplash, without even considering alternative options. Minor flaws do not bother most homeowners who decide to transform the kitchen with a minor renovation or start a full renovation.

And the disadvantages of tiles as a finishing material are as follows:

installation complexity. Agree that for the correct, beautiful and durable cladding apron with ceramic tiles, you need considerable experience in this area. As a result, the need to contact specialists, whose services are very expensive;
high level of contamination of a sufficiently large area of the kitchen space during installation.

Porcelain stoneware has long ceased to be a finishing material only for floor covering and switched to facing vertical planes. In addition to its enhanced qualities of durability and strength, porcelain stoneware is mounted faster due to large sizes ingot (true and waste when making complex surfaces with sockets and other openings will be more).

Subway tiles are one of the most popular types of ceramic tiles used for vertical kitchen surfaces. Snow-white tiles with a matte or glossy surface, combined with a grout of the same shade or contrasting, dark color, has long been a permanent member kitchen designs and is not going to give up their positions. The fact is that this type of tile cladding is perfectly integrated into almost any interior of the kitchen.

Clinker tiles, as a rule, are produced in unglazed form. Thanks to a special technological method for the production of tiles (extrusion), it acquires high specifications, because it is fired at very high temperatures. Externally, the tile looks matte, its surface is smooth. Clinker easily tolerates exposure to moisture and high temperatures, chemical cleaners and is incredibly easy to clean. Looks great in classic interiors or country style kitchens.

Mosaic for facing a kitchen apron

If you need a practical, but at the same time bright and dynamic design of an apron, then a mosaic can be an ideal option for cladding. Especially if the surface of the apron is quite complex, it provides for niches or roundings.

Benefits of mosaic tiles:

mosaic tile has in its arsenal the weight of the advantages that are characteristic of tiles, in addition to low cost;
in addition, the mosaic has a unique for finishing material ability to facing surfaces that are complex in terms of geometry - niches, arches, roundings, recesses;
great for decorating the perimeter of the apron or highlighting certain parts of it;
visual expansion of the room. Mosaic tiles are recommended for cladding surfaces in small kitchens, which is very important for our compatriots who got "Stalin" and "Khrushchev".

Among the disadvantages of the mosaic lining of the apron are:

greater than that of a simple ceramic tile cost;
a large number of seams between the chips - separate elements of the mosaic and, as a result - special care behind them, processing moisture resistant grout, cleansing, refreshing the appearance about once every 2-3 years;
As with ceramic tiles, for the installation of mosaics, you must resort to the services of professional tilers.

The combination of tiles in the design of the apron

An interesting effect can be achieved by combining ceramic and mosaic tiles when facing surfaces above the working area of the kitchen. Such an interior will be unforgettable and individual. In terms of cost, the design will not differ much from the one that uses only tiles (after all, a little mosaic is needed), and the visual effect compensates for the time and effort spent.

MDF boards for surface decoration above the working area of the kitchen

The fastest and most inexpensive way to design an apron in the kitchen is to install MDF boards with PVC film.

In addition to the low cost of MDF boards, they have a number of other advantages:

fast production. As a rule, kitchen set manufacturing companies take over the process of producing an MDF backsplash according to your measurements;
quick installation. The same company that manufactured and assembled the kit kitchen cabinets, is also engaged in the installation of MDF boards;
the possibility of replacing MDF sheets even without removing kitchen cabinets and changing the kitchen stop at any time;
lack of connecting seams, which greatly facilitates the care of the surface of the apron;
the ability to create a picture, photo printing, any ornament without restrictions on MDF panels.

Among the disadvantages of MDF panels with PVC film, the following can be noted:

low level of strength. MDF is significantly inferior in strength to ceramics, glass, stone and metal;
unproven environmental friendliness. Already long time manufacturers of MDF panels argue in favor of the environmental friendliness of this finishing material, while environmentalists, in contrast to them, put forward their evidence of harm to humans and environment some substances involved in the manufacturing process of modern facing material.

A beautiful and durable way to design surfaces above the working area of the kitchen space is glass cladding. As a rule, tempered glass is used in two options– painted surface or with photo printing. Modern technologies allow you to transfer any image onto a glass plane - from a family portrait to the words of your favorite song that you sing while preparing a family dinner.

Glass also has the following advantages:

all the advantages of popular finishing materials (practicality, ease of maintenance; resistance to high temperature, calm transfer of high humidity);
ease of installation;
seamlessness;
high level of strength and durability (and still throw in a glass kitchen apron cast iron cauldron not worth it).

Among the obvious disadvantages, it is worth noting, first of all, the high cost. But it can be depreciated over a couple of years of operation. glass cover To decorate part of the kitchen wall.

Natural stone for a noble finish of the kitchen backsplash

Often a natural stone used for facing an apron, which is called "complete with a countertop." For facing surfaces above the working areas, durable rocks of stone are most often used - marble, granite and basalt. Granite can be called the leader in popularity among natural materials. The point is that he has high strength with low porosity, which means moisture, and with it dirt, penetrate the structure of the stone much less. The same cannot be said about marble, for example. But with enough frequent grinding, a similar effect can be achieved. But the appearance marble countertop in the company of the same apron will delight you for many years and will be able to serve more than one generation of the family.

Recently, such material as lithoceramics has become popular - it is a composite of marble and tile. Outwardly, only specialists are able to distinguish natural stone from a synthetic "alloy", but the tiles obtained as a result of the fusion are much lighter than marble, they are easier to install, and they certainly cost less than natural stone.

Marble tiles "metro" of the same breed with the material of the countertop create an elegant and noble alliance that can decorate both a kitchen in classical style, with a traditional setting, as well as a modern style of kitchen interior.

Metal apron for a modern kitchen

I would like to note right away that the apron from of stainless steel or iron will not harmoniously fit into every style of interior. For example, for baroque, rococo and even classic styles, it is better to choose traditional ceramic finish. But modern style, hi-tech and loft are in perfect harmony with the brilliance of stainless steel.

When creating an interior in which there will be a metal apron, it is important to remember the environment necessary for it - use mirror surfaces or the brilliance of glass, crystal. In any case, most models household appliances for the kitchen or made of stainless steel, or have chrome fittings.

Using metal to design a kitchen apron, you must be prepared for the fact that any drops, even from clean water, will be visible on your surface of their steel or iron. This cladding option is not desirable for housewives who make the cleanliness of their kitchen an absolute.

If it seems to you that using a single piece of metal can bring excessive coldness to the interior of the kitchen, then you can consider the option of metal tiles or mosaics.

Natural wood for wall decoration above work surfaces

To begin with, uncoated wood for decorating an apron is an extremely undesirable option. The tree perfectly absorbs moisture, and with it dirt, has a very porous, fibrous structure, we absorb all odors. Therefore, if the interior of your kitchen requires a wood-based apron, take care of the necessary protection of the wooden surface. It's obvious that similar finish from natural material won't be cheap. But during installation there will be little dirt, and you can be sure of the environmental friendliness of the chosen method of facing the planes of your kitchen. But you also need to be prepared for the fact that about once a year you will need to process wooden surface special oils that prevent the material from drying out (after all, moisture and subsequent swelling of wood in the kitchen are inevitable).

Brick wall as a way to design a kitchen apron

If your kitchen is made in the loft style and you would like to emphasize that the room belongs to this style with the help of an apron, then the best option would be to use brickwork or its imitation. Of course, the surface of the bricks and the joints between them must be opened with special moisture-resistant varnishes in order to protect the apron from constant exposure to moisture, dirt and grease drops.

Part of the wall between the surfaces of the headset (plates, tables, cabinets, sinks) and hinged shelves and cabinets are called an apron for the kitchen.

But what to choose: ceramic apron for the kitchen, glass, stone, MDF or laminate? This question worries many, we will analyze in detail the pros and cons of each material.

Apron tiles

Popular traditional ceramic tiles. It is durable, hygienic, low-porous.

But a huge choice makes it possible to create interesting designs from other materials.

Not suitable for an apron: plaster, photo wallpaper or whitewash, and plywood and chipboard are afraid of water, swell and deform.

Moisture resistance, strength and fire resistance of the material are the main requirements for a kitchen apron. Favorite material, proven over the years - tiles for the kitchen on the apron. Consider what materials are used.

A rock

Natural (artificial) stone for a kitchen backsplash is ideal. This is a brickwork, which is coated with a water-repellent varnish, suitable for country or loft.

It is better to use marble, granite or basalt - they are polished. Natural stones look luxurious, are not afraid of fire and overheating, are stronger than ceramics. Marble absorbs different dyes, requires careful maintenance.

Artificial stone has many colors and types of finishes. Lighter and much cheaper than natural, durable, low-porous, does not absorb dyes, durable.

MDF for apron

Next to the chipboard, the MDF kitchen apron is practical, more resistant to moisture and fire, and durable.

Laminated imitates wood colors better chipboard, looks especially good if the table top and apron are made in the same material.

With acrylic film MDF (matte or glossy).

New moisture resistant material - MDF with acrylic panels. It has wide selection decor: with gloss, changes color "chameleon", with pearl shine, with photo printing, etc.

Wood application

Wood finishes for the kitchen are not the best option, wood is afraid of water, hot splashes from the stove and steam. Can the tree be covered? protective varnish if an electric stove or induced - then the tree will do.

Apron laminate

Only fit waterproof laminate, the shade should be combined with the floor. Beautiful imitation of stone and wood.

fastened liquid nails, the edging is fixed with aluminum profiles for good tightness at the joints between kitchen worktop and an apron. Easy to do with your own hands.

plastic panels

A budget way to finish, but there are enough shortcomings in an apron for a plastic kitchen:

combustible, heating up, loses its shape;
moisture resistant, but salts corrode the material;
photo printing is effective on panels.

Low price and easy installation makes plastic aprons for the kitchen the most affordable.

Apron polycarbonate or acrylic glass

In durability, PVC plastic is better, as well as in strength, but does not like high temperatures.

Light weight and installation, it will replace glass, which can be made with different levels of transparency, with photo wallpapers, etc. transparent plastic – good protection photo wallpaper from water and steam.

Apron metal

For professional kitchens, stainless steel is often used:

the material is not combustible;
moisture resistant material made of galvanized steel, as well as with dyes from polymers;
resistant to all disinfections (chemical or biological);
the possibility of surface treatment (tiles, mosaics or panels).

Glass Application

Glass apron for the kitchen is made of tempered glass or triplex. Mass of advantages:

hygiene;
not combustible;
various design (toning, painting, photo printing, matte pattern, engraving, etc.);
strength is slightly inferior only to tiles;
safe and secure tempered glass, no sharp fragments if broken (cubes remain).

An apron for a kitchen with photo printing on glass can give 3D volumetric images, panoramic views, with a beautiful perspective.

You can install it yourself, but experience is required. glass panels heavy and fragile, you need to fix them well.

The glass apron can be mirrored, it is great way visually increase the space that designers often use. Photo printing is rarely used here.

If you like White color, then an apron for a white kitchen can be cream, chocolate - any as an accent. But you can leave it in white, if desired.

A huge number of designs in any style and color solution in our collection on the photo of an apron for the kitchen.

Photo of an apron for the kitchen

Hello dear readers! In the kitchen, every day, at least during the day and in the evening, the whole family traditionally gathers, and of course, everyone present wants to be in a cozy, comfortable and attractive environment, conducive to conversation and relaxation after a hard labor day. Therefore, it is so important to think over all the details of the interior in such a way that the kitchen is as comfortable and aesthetically decorated as possible. It would seem that what effect a kitchen apron can give, in fact, it is precisely from such details that the whole image of the interior as a whole consists. So neglect the choice of apron for kitchen furniture it’s not worth it, today we will tell you how to design a kitchen apron, namely, we will tell you about the materials for its manufacture, the tint palette and show a lot of relevant photos.

Varieties of kitchen aprons.

Kitchen aprons differ in the material of manufacture and the tint palette (we will consider these points in more detail below).

According to the material of manufacture, the following variations can be distinguished:

plastic panels;
MDF panels;
Tile;
Fake diamond;
Mosaic;
Mirror surface;
glass surface.

Shade of a kitchen apron.

Bright shade.

It is better to support the brightness of the apron with some elements in the room that match its tone, these can be furniture handles, flower pots, curtains, chandelier or lamp. In addition, such a course of mixing shades will help to avoid a clear accent on the wall, which, due to its brightness, will attract the attention of others, so it must be kept exceptionally clean.

Neutral shade.

Such a palette implies the selection of an apron to match the furniture itself, it is practically invisible on the wall, unless you can catch its interesting texture. Contrary to popular belief, such a discreet element looks incredibly stylish, and besides, it does not attract too much attention, so the hostess does not need to constantly run with a rag to remove stains from slaps. Perfect solution for kitchen.

contrast variations.

A play on contrasts will look appropriate if the selected tones are repeatedly repeated in the interior, for example, a white kitchen set and a black glass apron with a white pattern, glass table and black chairs. In general, thanks to a contrasting apron, you can revive the entire kitchen set as a whole.

Before buying, you need to decide for yourself what an apron should be in your kitchen:

- It should match in style and color with the kitchen set and other furniture in the kitchen.

- He must perfectly cope with his direct duties - to protect the walls from pollution, to wash easily, and accordingly not to be afraid of the effects of various detergents.

Let's go through the different variations of aprons in more detail.

Panels made of plastic or MDF.

This option is affordable, looks aesthetically pleasing, easy to clean, they are washed with plain water without chemicals. MDF panels are made from special wood-sawdust boards, which are traditionally laminated. The shade of this product can be absolutely anything - monophonic, with stains, inclusions, etc. When fixing the panel, all its joints are hidden by special corners, which can also be different shades, but silvery corners are considered the most common.

Tile (tile).

Such tiles are still in demand, as they were many years ago. The advantages of such tiles include durability. Disadvantages: the cost of the tile itself + the work of the master, the seams of the tile can accumulate particles of grease and other contaminants (although the craftsmen cover them with a layer of varnish and this problem is solved), therefore, they require frequent maintenance, and of course, if the tile gets bored, it will not work in a jiffy remove and replace with another, as is the case with solid panels.

Fake diamond.

The apron made of artificial stone, especially in natural natural warm color. He is excellent suitable for interiors, designed in natural styles as well as country and chalet destinations. But you need to be prepared for the fact that such an apron will accumulate particles of grease, dust and other contaminants.

Mosaic.

The mosaic apron looks very interesting, the result is incredible stylish interior, especially if the mosaic is selected in luxurious gold, black, silver and red tones. By the way, the mosaic can be made of the following materials: glass, ceramics, marble, metal and wood. For the manufacture of a kitchen apron, it is better to purchase a glass mosaic, it is easy to clean and is not afraid of temperature changes.

Mirror effect.

Such an apron looks not only beautiful, but truly amazing. The room becomes stylish and modern. It will look great with silver fittings: door handles, silver appliances, chrome faucets, etc. But there is one significant “but”, the mirror will constantly fog up, get dirty and slap, so it will often need to be wiped from the slightest dirt by special means that do not leave streaks on a glossy surface.

Glass panel.

AT last years enjoy great popularity among the population glass aprons, and not simple monophonic surfaces, but variations with . Thanks to photo printing technology, a person can order any image printed on glass: flowers, fruits, nature, cities, inscriptions, etc. This panel is particularly durable, as it is made of tempered glass. On the glass surface, of course, stains will also appear, but thanks to the applied image, they will be less noticeable. It can be washed with plain water soapy water without abrasive particles and wipe with soft polishing cloths.

Agree, the examples of kitchen aprons presented in this review, without exception, all look great, and with such a variety of materials, literally everyone can choose the right option for themselves.

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As a finishing material, kitchen tiles are becoming an increasingly popular material. But she happens various kinds, but how do you know which type is worth choosing for arranging your kitchen? This is exactly what we will help you figure out!

Advantages and disadvantages of tiles for finishing kitchens

Today, more and more kitchen walls, as well as aprons are decorated with tiles. This material has already proven its practicality, which is incredibly important in kitchens.

At correct styling and choosing this particular material, you will be convinced of its durability and practicality for many years, which will save you from the need to often make repairs in the kitchen. She is resistant to high humidity and temperature changes, retains its original attractive appearance for a long time, when compared with other finishing materials.

Before making repairs, you must understand all the advantages and disadvantages of this material. After all, changing it if desired will be more difficult than wallpaper, or repainting the walls.

In any home, the kitchen occupies a special place. After all, families gather here, spend time with guests, and also arrange festive events. Accordingly, it is regularly exposed to detergents, high humidity and temperature changes. In the process of preparing meals, all surfaces in this room are susceptible to fat and various dirty drops. From this follows the fact that the materials should be easy to wash and clean. But such material is tile!

Ceramic tiles for the kitchen

Most budget material is a ceramic/tiled tile. In the same time modern manufacturers offer such material in the widest range of colors and patterns!

Browse only the photo of tiles for the kitchen on the apron! After all, she is the most gorgeous!

With regard to the production method, the material is divided into:

Pressed, that is, clay with sand is pressed and this type of material is obtained as a result.
Extruded, made from dough-like mass. Almost 20% of it consists of water, which is passed through an extruder.

There are also such types of tiles as:

Glazed, with a thin top glass coating.
Unglazed, no top coat.

When choosing a glazed tile from a tile, it is important to look at the surface of the material so that there are no cracks or chips on it. There can be absolutely no carelessness!

Glazed slabs are usually used for wall decoration. The second option has a slightly rough surface, so it is used for flooring.

On the packaging with the material put various designations characterizing the material. In addition, there are other markings used to designate packages. For example, regarding the stability of the material with respect to chemical attack, it happens:

AA, i.e. the highest type, resistant to chemicals.
A, stable species, sensitive to chem. very strong substances.
B, resistant to chemicals.
C, poorly resistant to chemicals.
Oh the most low type, which is completely resistant to chem. substances.

We invite you to find out variety of options use of tiles in interiors by viewing a photo of tiles on an apron.

Porcelain stoneware slabs

If we talk about the composition of porcelain stoneware, it is not much different from ceramic tiles, it also includes clay with sand, as well as other components.

The most important difference in them is the staining process. So, ceramic tiles have only a color coating, but porcelain stoneware is painted thanks to coloring pigments, due to which the coloring process occurs very evenly, on each of the sections of the material.

As a result of firing, tiles with a low level of porosity are produced. And this factor affects the hygroscopicity of the material, while the indicators are reduced to a minimum (up to 0.05%). From this follows a short general characteristics porcelain stoneware material:

The color is uniform over the entire surface
Durability - at the highest level
Water absorption - practically non-existent
frost-resistant
Wear resistant
durable
Eco-friendly

Stone tiles

The material is very stylish. With it, you can look at your own kitchen in a completely different way.

Such material has the property of "eating" free space, because of which absolutely the entire room should not be finished with it. Among other things, it is not so difficult to oversaturate the room with stone, which will be very false to return back.

An ideal way to design a countertop, an apron, so that they continue each other, for which the textures and materials will be similar to each other.

The area near the stove, designed in the form of a fireplace, looks very beautiful and interesting.

glass tiles

Also a very popular item. Concerning modern styles, then such material is used for Hi-tech, Modern, Minimalism.

The main advantages of glass plates:

A beautiful appearance, which cannot be argued with, because it looks really, just great, especially if the kitchen is decorated in light colors.
Excellent technical specifications, according to which given material much better than ceramic, as well as more durable and durable, not afraid of high levels of humidity. It does not have a very porous surface, and therefore it is much easier to clean. In addition, it does not absorb moisture.
Since the color is applied with back side, the material does not fade.
Installation and installation of this material is completely simple. To do this, you do not need to buy anything extra, except for ordinary sealant, grout.
Due to its versatility, the material is in harmony with other finishing options.

Check out the tile backsplash designs in the kitchen to see the chic look of the glass material.

Mosaic type of slabs

Use mosaic tiles today it is fashionable and stylish. Yes, this material has already been in trend before and is now back again. What a magnificent mosaic tile for an apron is being produced only now! Her appearance can even bewitch the spirit! Such material is also ceramic and glass.

Ceramic tiles are produced identical to full-fledged ceramic plate. Part glass mosaic also includes smalt pieces (opaque glass, incredibly durable and practical).

The shape and size of the tiles are completely unrelated. Pieces are square, round, rectangular, diamond-shaped, as well as large and small, creating whole patterns or chaotic images.

Variants of mosaic tiles look simply gorgeous in interiors! In addition, there are many different options for it.

At the same time, the kitchen should not be finished only with mosaics. Perfect option- its combination with other types of materials, such as wallpaper, or ceramic tiles.

We imitate brick laying

Today, this design method is very popular when it is imitated concrete surface, or brick. Accordingly, in kitchens, this method is also relevant.

They lay tiles with patterns, with imitation of bricks, you can perfectly do something new in own kitchen, having issued a fashionable and extraordinary interior.

Doing " brickwork»It can be used as you like, unlike mosaic. You can select an apron in working area, or do accent wall. In addition, all the walls in the kitchen can be laid out in this way!

You can also play visually in space, because it is absolutely not necessary to create clear vertical or horizontal stripes! Great option- placement of tiles vertically. So you visually beat the space, and it will seem spacious, and in low rooms - raise the ceilings.

As for the choice of colors, then it's up to you. Every room is different. Options can be monophonic, or other interesting combinations.

Parquet laying

Yes, tiles can be laid in a parquet way and this is beautiful. Alternative option brick version masonry. Its essence is that it is used rectangular tiles one is perpendicular to the other.

This option of laying the material is original and unusual!

It is better if the material is neutral and plain. After all, the emphasis is not on beautiful material, and on original way his styling. At the same time, no one forbids the use of colored tiles, or the combination of its different shades. The main task is to choose the right and tasteful materials!

The disadvantage of this method is the need to cut the material. To get started, you can choose plates square shape in the same tone and texture, and then cut them diagonally. So you will not spend more money and materials.

Diagonal laying method

This method is very interesting and suitable for those who prefer traditional options material. In this case square slabs placed in rhombuses. Of course, this option looks much more interesting than the most banal masonry on the principle of seam to seam.

This way of laying will help to visually increase the space.

Apron design

This zone is located above the cooking zone. It is she who takes the main blow in the cooking process.

The cooking zone includes: a stove and a table for cutting food, a sink.

Literally up to 20 cm, the dimensions of the apron should go beyond the cooking zone. Consider this nuance!

The porosity of the material should be the smallest, since in this zone the wall takes on the maximum "load". Accordingly, stone and ceramic tiles are far from best options. Here it is worth preferring glass or porcelain stoneware.

As for the color design, there can be two options:

The apron is decorated in the same tone as the entire kitchen, complementing the overall palette, complementing the kitchen space.
The backsplash contrasts with the main frame, creating an accent and making the kitchen fresh and modern.

It is worth remembering the mosaic method of design. By the way, this method is very interesting and gives room for imagination in order to design an apron.

Key points in laying tiles

So you finally bought the tile that you preferred, taking into account our recommendations and a diverse range. Of course, laying the material will take time and effort. You can also hire professional craftsmen who will carry out the installation work efficiently and in a timely manner. But this type of work can be completely done independently, saving a certain amount of money ...

And so, in order to lay the material on the kitchen wall, you must:

Carry out cleaning and leveling work, removing previous coatings from the wall, and if necessary, even leveling.
The main marking is applied, which depends on which installation method you prefer.
Next, prepare all the materials. Those. if necessary, they are trimmed, and the adhesive composition should also be diluted in accordance with the proposed instructions.
Start laying using a notched/flat trowel, applying the adhesive in a thin layer.
The laying process is carried out according to the pattern you prefer for your kitchen. Having chosen the crosses for the designation, designate the places for the seams.
When the adhesive dries, remove the crosses, and then wipe the seams using a special mixture.