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With the help of properly selected materials, their combination, overall dimensions and color scheme, you can highlight the working area in the kitchen. In this article, we will learn what to make an apron in the kitchen from, and also get acquainted with the sequence of the workflow.
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Features of arranging an apron from various materials
To choose the best option for arranging the working area in the kitchen, you need to familiarize yourself with the strengths and weaknesses of each of the possible materials. Wallpaper for this purpose is rarely used, because such products will soon become dirty and may become unusable from constant cleaning of the surface. As an exception - vinyl roll materials with additional protection with glass or transparent plastic.
The most budget option is the use of a film with a decorative pattern. It can be glued to the wall surface or fixed to the base with staples. The service life of such a product is limited, if necessary, it can be replaced with a new copy.
Ceramic tile
The most popular design option for an apron is the use of tiles. Ceramic tiles have several advantages over other materials:
- long operating period;
- high strength of the product;
- good water resistance;
- ease of care for the surface of the tile;
- relative inertness to the effects of chemicals;
- a wide range of products.
The design of the working area with tiles can be very diverse. The surface is often made in one color, although other compositions are also used in practice, for example, with an ornament or with imitation of brickwork. With the right choice of tile color, the user can visually expand the space in the kitchen.
For laying ceramic tiles on the work surface, glue or cement-sand mortar is used. In order to perfectly align the apron, it is necessary to first repair all cracks, distortions and height differences on the base. With a separate installation of the working area, the tile can be attached to a chipboard sheet.
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Mosaic
The apron of the kitchen working area is often made of mosaic elements. These include:
- glass of various colors;
- natural or artificial stone;
- metal products;
- ceramic elements;
- acrylic or plastic.
Mosaic products are a set of individual elements that are connected into a single whole using paper or a special mesh. The interior of the kitchen has a unique appearance, in which the countertop and backsplash are made of a mosaic of the same color scheme.
The materials in question are expensive, so some users prefer to make a kitchen apron with their own hands from improvised materials. As the main elements, pieces of broken dishes, the remains of ceramic tiles and other similar products are used here. Installation of such a working area is lengthy and requires experience from the master.
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Artificial and natural stone
Many kitchen owners prefer to decorate the work area with expensive natural stone or an artificial analogue (porcelain stoneware, concrete and clinker tiles, large pebbles). These materials have a number of positive characteristics:
- resistance to sudden temperature changes;
- low level of moisture absorption;
- ease of cleaning the surfaces of stone products, their hygiene;
- unlimited period of operation;
- environmental friendliness of the material.
The main disadvantages of the products under consideration are the complexity of installation, high cost and low level of maintainability.
Despite the presentable appearance, marble is not used in this case. The fact is that the surface of these materials can absorb moisture and unpleasant odors. Under the influence of an external aggressive environment, the structure of the stone will soon begin to collapse, and it will lose its decorative effect.
The second artificial material, porcelain stoneware, is similar in technical characteristics to ceramic tiles, but differs from its counterpart in increased strength and wear resistance. Such products are rarely used for arranging a working area in the kitchen due to the increased mass and high cost. It is better to entrust porcelain stoneware laying to an experienced master.
To the question of how to finish the apron in the kitchen, there is another answer - large pebbles. Such products without sharp corners hide all the irregularities of the base surface. Stones are laid on glue or cement-sand mortar. The technology of mounting large pebbles is quite simple, any man can handle this work.
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Wood or MDF
Many users choose laminated MDF panels for decorating an apron, consisting of a substrate and plastic or laminate. The best option for arranging the working area is the selection of the same color scheme as that of the working area. On the surface of the panel are fixed with liquid nails.
The main advantage of the products in question is the possibility of selecting the necessary piece of sheet, because the apron can go beyond the cladding. Splashes or dirty spots may appear on the decorative surface during work in the kitchen. They can be easily removed with ordinary glass cleaner and a sponge. Do not use abrasive substances for this purpose, because they can scratch the decorative surface.
The rapid wear of the MDF panel is associated with exposure to high temperatures. In areas near the slab, the coating often fades or deforms. Laminated panels have a low cost, if desired, they can be quickly replaced.
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Glass
Glass is considered the most popular material for decorating an apron, due to the following advantages:
- high strength indicators;
- long service life;
- ease of care;
- decorative qualities of the surface;
- wear resistance;
- water resistance of the material;
- chemical inertness;
- high level of fire safety.
In the working area of the kitchen, triplex glass reinforced with a film or a tempered analogue is used. For decoration use plain or transparent models, products with the effect of a background pattern.
A non-standard constructive solution will be a sticker of a mirror on a chipboard plate. Such a detail can visually expand the interior space in the kitchen. It should be noted that the mirror will quickly get dirty, so this element needs daily care.
Not every user knows how to make a do-it-yourself kitchen apron from glass. It is fixed on glue or special fittings, while the thickness of the element should be greater than 5 millimeters. Non-hardened products are suitable for drilling, which allows them to be fixed on special rivets.
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Metal
Metal products, and specifically stainless steel, are used to create aprons when the kitchen is decorated in high-tech style. Such products are fixed on a glass surface with liquid nails. Such panels have a high shelf life; of the minuses, it is necessary to highlight a small number of design solutions for models.
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Apron under a brick
The working area with imitation of brickwork is made in various colors. The surface of such products can be smooth or textured. The material has the appearance of a tile; it is laid with dressing of seams like an ordinary brick. The main disadvantage of such an apron is the possibility of accumulation of grease and dirt in the working area, so the working area must be periodically cleaned of dirt. The material is suitable for any interior, it has good water-repellent properties and high strength.
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How to make an apron in the kitchen with your own hands
The process of mounting the working area begins with the selection of the necessary material and surface preparation. Next, we will learn how to arrange an apron in the kitchen in detail.
Choosing an apron
Materials must be selected in such a way that the working area is as functional as possible. Decorative items should be well cleaned from dirt and dust. In addition, when buying a material, it is necessary to pay attention to its resistance to sudden changes in temperature, as well as moisture resistance.
The protective coating is fixed in the immediate vicinity of the stove or sink. Walls in these areas often suffer from waterlogging or grease splatter, which contribute to the formation of stubborn stains that cannot be removed. Cutting of vegetables or meat can take place in the working area of the kitchen. When working, food particles can also get on the walls, so some users lay the apron throughout the entire countertop. In addition to functionality, the work area connects the kitchen furniture into a single whole, it should fit perfectly into the existing interior.
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We determine the dimensions
When determining the dimensions, you need to know in how many planes the working area is located. If the apron is located on two or three walls, then the user must find out the dimensions of each of the planes. The height of this design will be determined by the difference in the marks of the countertop and the kitchen facades hanging from above.
The length depends on the size of the headset, the location of the gas stove and the sink in the room. If plumbing and household appliances are located in the corners of the wall, then the user must also add 50-70 centimeters to the work surface. With a side fit, the apron is made straight.
For example, the length of a standard kitchen set is 3 meters, while the sink and stove are in the middle of the room. In this case, the height of the canopy from the floor level will correspond to 1.4 meters, the length is -3.5 meters. It is also necessary to make additional protection above the stove under the hood, the possible overall dimensions are 75 * 90 centimeters.
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Let's get acquainted with the installation process of the working area on the example of ceramic tiles. Such work is carried out according to pre-applied markings before installing kitchen furniture. First you need to level the base, remove the height differences and repair the cracks.
At the next stage of work, it is necessary to determine the nature of the location of the tiles on the surface. The tile is laid in a straight or diagonal position, selecting a pattern and mounting a border, if this element is provided. Next, we make markings on the wall, determine the position of the upper and lower borders. At the bottom we fix a metal profile that will fix the bottom row of tiles.
We start the installation of tiles from the center and consistently move to the edges. To ensure that the gaps between the individual elements are the same, we install plastic crosses. After fixing the tile on the surface, these elements are removed. Grouting is carried out two days after the completion of the main work.
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Conclusion
Whatever material is chosen for the apron device, the wrong work technology can ruin the entire surface. In this regard, it is necessary to carry out careful measurements of both the working area and specific materials. The work is carried out with great care, the result will be a beautiful decorative surface in the kitchen.
A special coating that frames the work areas is called an apron for the kitchen. What role does the apron play, and what material can it be made of?
What is an apron for?
The space of any kitchen is divided into two main areas - dining and working. At the usual table, we have breakfast and dinner, drink evening tea and talk with relatives and guests. But of course, the main element of the kitchen is the working area - it is directly cooking. Sink, stove, spacious countertop - usually they are located next to each other on the same line, closely adjacent to the wall.
It is impossible to cook food while maintaining absolute "sterility" in the kitchen. Water splashes, flying droplets of juice from vegetables and fruits, small particles of food, fumes from pots and pans - all this flies daily onto the wall adjacent to the working area of the kitchen. Even thorough cleaning after each cooking does not save the situation - the wall quickly loses its attractiveness and begins to require cosmetic repairs.
It is to protect the walls from splashes and moisture that the apron is intended. Such an element is a decorative coating that is fixed on the wall along the working area. The apron is always made of materials that do not collect excess dirt and are easy to clean - plastic, glass, ceramic tiles. It is enough to simply wipe the soiled coating with a damp cloth - it is much easier than scrubbing wallpaper and plaster from splashes.
The apron performs not only a practical, but also a decorative role. Usually its design is selected in accordance with the interior of the kitchen. This element can become a continuation of the overall style or a bright accent. But in any case, it emphasizes and highlights the working area of the room. Thus, a stylish coating helps to unobtrusively delimit the space - which is especially appropriate in small kitchens, where it is impossible to separate one area from another in other ways.
As mentioned, kitchen aprons are made from different materials. Consider the most popular varieties - tiles, MDF panels, mosaics and glass.
Tile kitchen apron
Ceramic tile flooring is a classic option that is most popular. What features are characteristic of it, and how to make a ceramic apron yourself?
Features, advantages and disadvantages
A kitchen apron made of tiles, in comparison with other varieties, has serious advantages.
- Ceramics are easy to care for. The tile does not absorb any dirt, it is easy to remove water stains and grease from its surface, any cleaning agents can be used during the cleaning process. Ceramics calmly tolerates even the impact of abrasive powders - especially if you choose not a glossy, but a matte variety.
- The tiles are very durable. Ceramics is not afraid of humidity and temperature changes, does not lose its attractiveness over time, does not fade under the influence of direct sunlight. The tile possesses the increased fire resistance - at the fire the covering will not ignite.
- Ceramics is presented in the widest range of colors and textures. Having opted for ceramic tiles, you can make an apron that will imitate a marble, granite, wood surface - or prefer tiles with light decorative patterns.
- The tile has an affordable price - if desired, it is quite possible to find high-quality ceramics at a low cost on the market.
However, a tile apron also has certain disadvantages.
- You can put a ceramic coating with your own hands - but the process will turn out to be quite laborious, you will have to approach it very responsibly.
- To install ceramic tiles, you will need to purchase a special adhesive, leveling mortar, grout for joints. Therefore, the final cost of the apron will be slightly higher than the cost of the tile itself.
- A ceramic coating consisting of individual squares of tiles will not be perfectly smooth. It will take careful care of the tile joints - dirt will inevitably begin to collect in them.
How to make a ceramic apron with your own hands?
The process of laying tiles for an apron cannot be called simple. However, it is not necessary to pay money to professionals - you can cope with the task yourself. How to do it?
- First of all, you need to prepare the wall. Tiles are recommended to be laid on a perfectly flat surface. The old coating from the wall must be completely removed, it is also desirable to clean the wall of old plaster and repair all irregularities.
- Then you need to mark the lower horizontal level of the apron. Its height is determined individually, but if you want to save money and equip the cover only around the working area, then it is enough to bring it a little lower than the level of the work surfaces. The level can be marked either with charcoal or a pencil, or with a tightly stretched cord.
- You will also need to note the vertical level - for this purpose, you can drive a nail into the wall and simply hang a string with a load on it.
- After preparing the wall for mounting the apron, mix the adhesive solution following the instructions on the package. As long as the mortar maintains the desired viscosity, proceed with laying the tiles.
- Glue in the process of work is applied not to the wall, but to the back surface of the tile itself - with a notched trowel, leaving shallow grooves. The squares are stacked row by row, from the center to the edges. After completing each row, it is recommended to wait about half an hour until the adhesive solution “grabs”, and only then proceed with laying the next one.
During the installation of the apron, it is necessary to periodically check the compliance of the work with the vertical level. If any of the ceramic squares is uneven, it must be immediately removed and re-glued. The distance between the squares of the tiles is adjusted using special crosses.
It is important to note that in the process of work, some part of the material will inevitably be rejected. Therefore, it is very important to purchase tiles in advance with a small margin - about 10% more than the calculated amount.
When the tile is completely laid on the wall, wait for it to dry completely - and then rub the seams with a grout that matches the shade.
Apron from MDF panels
Another popular option is a backsplash made of MDF, a board made from densely pressed wood shavings. An important feature of MDF is that the binder solution in this board is not chemical mixtures, but a natural substance called lingin. Thus, the MDF board turns out to be absolutely environmentally friendly and safe - and therefore, it is perfect for use in the kitchen.
Advantages and disadvantages of the material
MDF panels have their pros and cons. Among the advantages of the material are the following:
- Low cost. MDF coating will cost much less than ceramic tile, glass or mosaic cladding.
- Ease of installation. Anyone can install MDF panels with their own hands - even without experience in relevant work.
- Panels have less variety in design than tiles - however, among them you can find options that harmoniously fit into the overall space of the kitchen.
Nevertheless, MDF is considered a "budget" version of the apron. There are reasons for this:
- Tightly pressed wood has good moisture resistance - however, constant exposure to water gradually destroys its structure. An MDF apron will last much less than tiles or other waterproof materials.
- MDF is highly flammable. This makes the material hazardous in the event of a fire.
- Compressed wood flooring is quite easy to scratch. After a short time, the panels may lose their attractiveness.
- The sensitivity of MDF to moisture significantly complicates the process of caring for such an apron. The coating will be harmed not only by contact with splashes of water and grease, but also by regular wiping of the surface with a damp cloth using household chemicals.
Nevertheless, the MDF apron is found in Russian kitchens quite often. Despite the disadvantages of the material, its low cost and ease of installation make it possible to periodically replace the coating.
How to fix an apron from MDF to the wall?
Basically, an MDF apron is attached in two ways - on self-tapping screws or on liquid nails. Regardless of the chosen installation method, you first need to connect the elements of the apron to each other - for this you will need to purchase special U-shaped fasteners, as well as "corners" for the corners of the kitchen and the baseboard for installation between the apron and the countertop.
- When attaching the apron to self-tapping screws, the MDF panel is drilled in several places and fixed directly to the wall. Places of fasteners are covered with plugs matching in color. The advantage of this installation method is that the wall is almost not damaged, and if necessary, the panel can be easily replaced with a new one.
- When fastening on liquid nails, the adhesive composition is applied to the back surface of the panel, after which it is evenly applied to the wall, pressed and fixed with self-tapping screws in the corners. Liquid nails hold the MDF securely - however, when replacing the apron, the wall will have to be leveled first.
Some MDF panels are also equipped with standard fasteners on the back side. In this case, it is necessary to equip the hinges on the wall - and just hang an apron on them, and then close the hinges themselves with a kitchen set.
Apron-mosaic
A very original and attractive type of kitchen apron is a mosaic. According to its characteristics, the mosaic is in no way inferior to ceramic tiles. Performs such a coating of durable materials - metal, artificial or natural stone, ceramics, colored glass. Mosaic has excellent moisture resistance, is very durable, easy to clean and, in principle, does not accumulate excess dirt on itself.
The process of installing a mosaic apron also resembles laying tiles on a wall - the same adhesive composition is used here, the process is carried out in a similar way. However, mosaic pieces are much smaller in size than tiled squares - therefore, installation requires more time and effort, and the decorative apron looks completely different.
Although it is not easy to lay a mosaic around work surfaces beautifully, this type of apron has an important advantage. Small pieces of mosaic help to arrange an apron around sockets and switches without any problems - while additional holes would have to be made in the tile. In addition, by combining different types of mosaics with each other, you can lay out an interesting pattern on the wall and let your imagination unfold.
Glass kitchen apron
A relatively new, but very interesting design option for the kitchen work area is a tempered glass apron. What are its benefits?
- The main advantage of a glass backsplash is the absence of seams, which become a problem when using tiles or mosaics.
- Glass is ideal for frequent cleaning - all dirt is easily removed from it. The material is not afraid of water, high temperatures, or aggressive household chemicals.
- The apron is highly durable - tempered glass a few millimeters thick is difficult to break, and even if damaged, it does not leave dangerous sharp fragments.
- A glass apron is mounted both on liquid nails and on special fasteners.
If desired, you can use transparent or frosted tempered glass for the apron. But more often additional decorative design is performed - photo printing with a beautiful picture suitable for the interior is placed under the glass. Glass protects it from any damage - so the image pleases the eye for many years with its brightness and freshness.
In addition, a backlight can be placed behind the glass apron. This will give the working area of the kitchen a particularly aesthetic look in the evening twilight - the decorative apron will seem to glow from the inside.
The apron protects the walls in the working area from grease and dirt, steam and heat, while it is always in sight and is the first to catch the eye when entering the kitchen. Therefore, it must be, firstly, simply indestructible, and secondly, beautiful. In this material, we will tell you what aprons are, what are the pros and cons of different materials, as well as which apron to choose for the kitchen in terms of design and size.
Overview of materials
Ceramic tile
Ceramic tiles are the most popular material for finishing an apron.
Pros: easy to clean, durable, resistant to moisture, fire, alkalis and acids. Tiles are eco-friendly and inexpensive. Among ceramic tiles there is a wide variety of shapes and sizes, textures and designs, and there are a great many ways of laying. The tile can be combined with any countertop, organically fit into both modern and classic interiors. If desired, wall tiles can be laid independently.
Cons: a tile apron has a weak point - seams. If the tile itself is cleaned once or twice, then you have to mess with the grout and periodically update it. Another disadvantage is that the laying process is quite messy and requires a level base.
Selection Tips:
- Light tiles + light seams - an impractical combination, as over time the seams darken and look untidy.
- To make the backsplash easy to clean, give preference to a smooth matte tile, rather than glossy and / or embossed.
- To seal the seams of the tile backsplash, you need to use a waterproof grout designed for kitchens.
- For classic kitchens square small-format tiles are more suitable, as well as tiles with a pattern under majolica .
- The most versatile option for designing a kitchen apron is a boar format tile.
- To diversify a simple tiled apron, decorative inserts as in the photo below, borders and mosaic accents will help.
Mosaic
Mosaic can be made from ceramic, porcelain stoneware, glass, smalt, stone and metals, and sometimes from all of these materials at the same time. Mosaic for sale already folded on a grid-matrix.
Pros: strength (especially smalt mosaics), the possibility of facing a curved or simply not too flat surface, the ability to compose a complex and unique artistic composition.
Cons: a large number of seams, high price (higher than for ceramic tiles), a little more complexity and high cost of installation, especially when laying a complex pattern.
Selection Tips:
- If you want to save money, use mosaics in combination with ceramic tiles, as, for example, in this interior in the photo below.
Combined mosaic and tile kitchen apron
- Mosaics can be replaced by “mosaic-like” tiles, which are both cheaper and easier to install.
Artificial and natural stone
Most often, tiles (slabs) made of natural / artificial granite or marble about 2 cm thick are used to finish the apron.
Advantages of granite: due to its density and hardness, granite is durable, not afraid of fire and temperature changes, does not absorb moisture and dirt. The color of a granite apron can have a very different shade - gray-pink (the most common and inexpensive), yellow, blue, brown, red, black and almost white.
Cons of granite: high price, the need for professional installation. Granite purchased from an unscrupulous manufacturer may be radioactive.
Advantages of marble: marble apron is perhaps the most beautiful. Domestic marble can be relatively inexpensive.
Cons of a marble apron: marble has a high moisture absorption, which is why it absorbs grease and dirt. Shine is lost over time, and some stains, for example, from rust or beet juice, may simply not be washed off.
Advantages of artificial stone (agglomerate): ease of care, strength, seamlessness of the finished apron, a variety of colors and textures, the possibility of restoration.
Cons of artificial stone: high price (higher than porcelain stoneware, ceramics, glass).
MDF and chipboard
It is not practical, not safe and expensive to use wood for finishing an apron, so it is replaced with budget imitations - MDF or laminated chipboard. The thickness of such an apron can be from 4 to 15 mm. As a rule, MDF and chipboard are matched to the countertop.
Pros: the ability to design an apron to match a wooden or stone countertop, low price, easy and quick installation even on a curved wall, ease of maintenance.
Cons: MDF and chipboard are not suitable for finishing the area behind the stove (especially gas), firstly, because of the high flammability, and secondly, because of the sensitivity to aggressive cleaning. Therefore, these materials are combined with a stainless steel insert or a glass screen. Another disadvantage of the MDF / chipboard backsplash is the presence of seams between the sheets, which are closed by moldings and corners, which complicates the cleaning of the kitchen and does not look too good.
Metal
Pros: Matte and slightly textured stainless steel is very easy to maintain. Neither scratches, nor grease, nor cleaning products are terrible for her. Stainless steel apron is very durable and wear-resistant.
Cons: polished (not matte) steel, although very beautiful, is too impractical, because it easily leaves fingerprints, stains from water drops and scratches. In addition, a metal apron is only suitable for modern kitchens.
glass apron
To decorate the kitchen apron, they use not simple glass, but tempered glass, as it is stronger on impact and safer. If you try hard and break the glass, then it will not break into sharp fragments, but into small and smooth pebbles. A glass apron is hung on special dowels with decorative plugs.
Cons: the glass apron is made only to order exactly to individual sizes, it will not work to cut it at the installation stage. Installation is carried out only by professionals. Another significant drawback of glass is its high cost (from 5,000 rubles per square meter).
Pros: a glass apron can be washed even with a brush and by any means, it does not scratch, is not afraid of fire, sunlight, temperature changes. Service life - about 10 years. Clear glass can be installed over "fragile" finishes such as wallpaper or painted walls, photo collage or posters, brickwork or wood.
And glass is an excellent basis for photo printing. Such an apron is called skinali.
The glass apron is made not only in the form of solid sheets, but also in the form of tiles that can be folded in traditional ways, for example, in a herringbone pattern as in the next interior.
plastic apron
Plastic wall panels are a good solution for a super-budget renovation or kitchen design in a rented apartment or cottage.
Pros: the main advantage is the low price, which allows you to often change the look of the apron. Plastic is easy to clean, mounted independently and even on a curved wall.
Cons: plastic apron is not compatible with a gas stove. It is also prone to scratches, abrasion and fading from sunlight. The service life of plastic is only a few years.
- In Ikea, you can purchase a double-sided panel that is installed in special profiles. Such an apron can be changed independently at least every day.
How to choose the color and design of the kitchen apron
Here are some tips to help you choose the right backsplash design and fix some of the kitchen's flaws:
- Most often, an apron is selected under the countertop and they are made either from the same material, for example, stone, or from materials that are as close as possible in color and texture. What else can you navigate when choosing the color and pattern of a kitchen apron? On the color and pattern of facades, walls, floors, curtains and other interior elements.
Blue apron supported by blue accents
The design of the kitchen apron echoes the wallpaper and facades
- A dark apron is the most impractical. Against such a background, dust, drops of water, splashes of grease will be especially noticeable.
- When choosing a bright color or a colorful pattern for an apron, remember that the interior should be designed in a neutral way.
- Want to visually expand a small kitchen? Then design the apron so that it has as many horizontal lines as possible. For example, it can be skinali striped or ceramic tile boar.
- To increase the space and enhance the lighting of the kitchen will help and mirror apron. True, it is suitable only for those who rarely cook and rely on a beautiful appearance, because the mirror is very difficult to keep clean.
- Food looks most appetizing on a warm background, for example, orange, red, yellow.
Determining height and dimensions
The standard height of the kitchen apron is 60 cm, which is convenient for people of medium and tall height. However, if most households are not tall, then it is better to make an apron 45-55 cm high. We also recommend slightly lowering the height of the apron if the upper cabinets open up using door closers. After all, if opening such doors is not difficult, then in order to close them, you have to stand on a stool or do it in a jump.
For a kitchen set, partially or completely without wall cabinets, an apron can be arranged in a standard height or oversized. For example, it can reach the ceiling or occupy about ¾ of the wall. Below are examples of aprons for kitchen sets without wall cabinets.
There are few of them, but they are all very important. She must be:
- convenient for the hostess;
- beautiful;
- cozy;
- clean and therefore easy to clean.
No one will be happy if cleaning the kitchen after cooking takes as much time as the cooking process itself.
Since the interior of the kitchen is daily exposed to a number of adverse factors, such as heat, steam, grease, caustic liquids (vinegar, sauces) and coloring pigments (colored vegetables, wines), it must be very resistant to their effects.
Usually, the sections of the wall near the stove and sink suffer the most from these troubles. Therefore, prudent people use various linings, which are called "aprons", to protect these places.
It is very important to choose the right apron for the device. In doing so, it must be based on the considerations that it should:
- easy to clean;
- have high resistance to high temperatures;
- be moisture and steam resistant;
- have high strength;
- be resistant to household chemicals;
- harmonize with the overall interior of the kitchen.
There is no material that ideally satisfies all the parameters, they all have certain advantages and disadvantages, so in each case you need to choose the most suitable one in terms of properties and cost.
This is the most popular material for kitchen apron. Its availability and a wide selection of textures and colors are often decisive. But it also has other advantages:
The disadvantages include:
- complexity and laboriousness of self-laying;
- the presence of seams that over time become overgrown with dirt and need to be repaired;
- relatively high cost compared to some other materials.
Looks very nice and original. The advantages of mosaics include:
- a large selection of shades allows you to finish the apron in complete harmony with the interior;
- ample opportunities to create patterns and even paintings;
- resistance to moisture and temperature.
Disadvantages:
- the complexity of installation, which entails the cost of the services of a master:
- a large number of seams dictates the use of expensive grout that is resistant to dirt;
- the high cost of the material (quality is much more expensive than tiles);
- the difficulty of replacing the apron if necessary.
Apron from MDF
Due to the cheapness of the material and the ease of installation, it is also in demand. Often, such an apron is installed for free by the same company that manufactures kitchen furniture (MDF panels will have to be bought there).
There are other advantages: 
- easy to install and dismantle by yourself;
- a wide range of MDF, allowing you to choose the finish for any room.
Disadvantages:
- not too high resistance to constant exposure to water, steam and cleaning agents;
- MDF burns, while releasing toxic substances:
- such an apron is difficult to decorate, usually it is a single panel between the cabinets and wall cabinets.
For lovers of complex design, the material is not suitable.
for these purposes, it is still used infrequently, although the material is rich in colors and textures. Various photographic images can be applied under glass, which makes the interior unique. The advantages include the following:
- the practicality of the material - the glass is easy to clean;
- resistance to high temperatures (especially if the glass is tempered).
Material disadvantages:
- dried splashes of water and fat are clearly visible, which requires constant wiping;
- over time, the glass becomes covered with scratches, especially if it is smooth;
- even for tempered glass, there is a high probability of mechanical damage, which will require replacement of the apron, since repairs are impossible;
- high cost of tempered glass.
Of the advantages, one can note the cheapness and large selection, as well as the relative strength and ease of installation.
Disadvantages: 
- plastic is easily scratched;
- does not tolerate cleaning products;
- can be deformed by temperature;
- may catch fire and release toxic substances.
If you opted for, then it is better to use a solid sheet for finishing - without seams, otherwise grease and dirt will accumulate in them, which are difficult to remove.
Choose PVC plastic - it is the most environmentally friendly and resistant to fire.
The only advantages are the visual increase in space and the rarity of use.
Disadvantages:
- difficult to keep clean
- care requires special tools;
- when fogged, it looks unattractive;
- breaks easily upon accidental impact;
- quite expensive.
It looks best in high-tech kitchens. From the pros:
- resistant to fire;
- the cost is not too high;
- there is a good selection of interesting textures.
Disadvantages:
- on metal, even textured, streaks and stains are clearly visible, so constant cleaning will be required;
- in the interiors of others will look alien.
Widely used in the production of facing materials. Often used to create kitchen aprons.
In comparison with natural stone, it weighs much less, is convenient for cladding and is cheaper. It competes with ceramic tiles and natural stone.
Its advantages: 
- unlike tiles, it allows you to make the surface of the apron seamless;
- a large selection of materials of different colors and textures;
- resistant to moisture and temperature;
- easy to clean;
- low cost.
The only downside is that it is not natural.
For facing aprons, such types of stone as marble, granite, onyx, basalt are used. It is clear that such an apron can only be made in the kitchen, where everything is also made of natural stone.
Advantages: 
- natural material;
- beautiful;
- lasting;
- fire resistant.
Disadvantages:
- heavy;
- the plate can be no thinner than 20 mm;
- very expensive.
It seems that there is no place for a tree in the kitchen, but there is such a thing. The arrangement of such an apron makes sense only if the kitchen furniture is also made of natural wood.
Use in the kitchen is very limited by its properties, so the most dangerous areas for wood - near the stove and sink are often delimited by other materials - metal, glass. Wood and metal go great together.
Typically, such an apron is made of individual wooden planks impregnated with special compounds to protect against fire and water.
Advantages: 
- absolutely natural;
- nice;
- cosy.
Disadvantages:
- high fire hazard;
- low resistance to water;
- easily soiled and scratched;
- difficult to clean from contaminants;
- high cost of quality wood.
For his device, not a real one, but a decorative one is used. But more often they use brick-like ceramic tiles, which can have both a flat and embossed surface. The second is not very convenient for cleaning.
You can use decorative fiber cement boards "brick-like".
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
- not suitable for every interior;
- if the tile has a porous surface, then it will be difficult to clean it.
Other options
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for the device of the apron, you need to choose only washable plaster. Its disadvantage is a rough surface, which in any case is difficult to wash. 
Wallpaper and fabric - even washable wallpaper and unpretentious fabric will not last long as an apron, so you have to cover them with glass.
Exotic materials include cork, which practically does not burn and looks very comfortable, but is quite expensive and difficult to maintain.
As a result, ceramic tiles, natural and artificial stone, metal can be noted among the most practical materials for the kitchen.
For a quick and economical repair, MDF and plastic are quite suitable, but they will not last too long.
A kitchen apron is a special coating located near the working area and providing wall protection. However, the apron in the interior of the kitchen is not only a functional surface, but also an important element of the decor of the interior of the kitchen.
Of course, moisture and grease accumulate on the wall along the workplace from regular cooking.
Accordingly, this zone should be made of materials that are as resistant to moisture, grease, chemicals and elevated temperatures as possible. At the same time, the apron should organically fit into the kitchen interior and be easily cleaned.
Therefore, when repairing a kitchen, the question often arises, which apron to choose for the kitchen? What finishing materials are best to use?
The classic option - tile
Tile for the kitchen on the apron is the most popular material. This is due to the fact that the tile has the following properties:
- Increased resistance to household chemicals;
- The absence of difficulties in care;
- Increased density, due to which fat is repelled;
- Increased resistance to temperature extremes and moisture resistance.
Its attractive appearance and a wide range of types, among which there are not only matte and glossy options, but also smooth, embossed surfaces of a wide variety of colors, shapes, patterns and sizes, make this material one of the most sought after.
Ceramic apron for the kitchen is practical and beautiful. With the help of tiles, you can make any kitchen interior fashionable and stylish.
Moreover, every year manufacturers release a huge number of new collections, not only in different colors, patterns and shapes, but also in textures. With the help of modern ceramic tiles, you can create an original kitchen design.
Mosaic
The design, which uses a mosaic for the kitchen on an apron, looks elegant and luxurious.
At the same time, a rich variety of materials is used to finish the kitchen backsplash, including ceramics, pieces of glass, smalt and metal plates.
However, the creation of a mosaic panel in the working area of the kitchen is not an easy task and, most often, only a specialist can do it.
At the same time, recently ready-made mosaic sets appeared on the market, which include a special mesh, using the mesh you can make an original mosaic-type apron yourself.
A natural stone
A huge variety of solutions for finishing the kitchen backsplash in the photo presented in the catalog allows you to implement any designer's idea, but natural stone stands out among them. However, to create an organic design, it is necessary that the countertop is also made of stone.
When deciding how to arrange an apron in a kitchen made of natural stone, first of all, you need to decide which stone is needed for decoration.
So, granite is distinguished by hardness and density, as well as a huge number of shades, starting from the most popular pink-gray, ending with a rare blue color. This material is characterized by increased strength, resistance to low temperatures and moisture resistance.
Another material that is widely used in finishing kitchen work areas is marble. This stone has a porous structure and a large number of microcracks. From the point of view of practicality, not the best material, however, its beautiful appearance makes it in demand.
When finishing aprons, it is rare to find such a material as basalt, because it is less attractive and heavy. However, it has excellent performance characteristics.
Wood
Recently, eco-friendly materials such as natural wood have been in fashion. When finishing aprons, the following types of wood materials are usually used:
MDF. It has increased resistance to microorganisms and fungi, is not subject to mechanical stress and is moisture resistant.
Laminate. It is easy to mount, looks attractive, but does not have moisture resistance.
Array. Its main advantage is that it can be used to make a luxurious design, however, this material is susceptible to high temperatures, prone to pollution and has low moisture resistance, this design solution can be seen in the photo of the kitchen apron in the catalog.
glass apron
An apron made of tempered glass will look elegant and sophisticated in the kitchen, which has increased impact resistance, fire resistance, resistance to mechanical and chemical stress, and it will not be difficult to take care of such an apron.
A glass apron is convenient because in the interior it can be used not only as a simply transparent material that will emphasize the luxurious finish of wall surfaces, as in the photo of a modern kitchen with a fashionable apron from the catalog, but also to make a pattern on the glass, thereby making the kitchen design more interesting.
You can also use a combined method, in which two glasses are connected by a thin colored film. 
Photos of new apron for the kitchen
