This guide breaks down what upstands and splashbacks do, their typical heights, and which option to choose depending on your needs.
What is an Upstand vs a Splashback?
The most notable difference between an upstand and a splashback is the size.
Upstands
An upstand is like an extension of your worktop, a short vertical strip that sits at the back edge of your kitchen worktop. While it does not cover your entire wall, it is at a safe height to protect your back wall from minor splashes and vapours while cooking.
Upstands are highly useful for covering any gaps between uneven walls and the edge of the worktop.
Splashbacks
A larger panel installed above your worktop that often runs all the way to the wall cabinets or sometimes even to the ceiling is a splashback. These are usually used in areas like behind sinks or hobs.
The larger panels help protect the wall from water, grease, and food splatters.
Why Install an Upstand or a Splashback?
Both options are intended to finish the look of your kitchen and increase its durability.
Practical Benefits
- Prevent damage from splashes, steam, and grease.
- Prevents mould and damp by blocking moisture.
- Easy to wipe and clean compared to painted walls.
Aesthetic Benefits
- Creates a clean, finished look
- Adds style or contrast, giving your kitchen a clea,n minimalist look.
- Different choices of materials can help elevate your kitchen display.
When to Choose an Upstand
Light Use Areas
Upstands are a great choice for areas with light cooking and food splashes, helping preserve wall space.
Seamless Finish
Using the same material upstand as your worktop helps create a clean, cohesive look without breaking the visual design, giving your kitchen a sleek, contemporary look.
Smaller Kitchens
Since upstands take up less visual space, they can make smaller kitchens feel larger and cleaner.
When to Choose a Splashback
Messy Cooking Zones
Kitchens with frequent and heavy cleaning often benefit from splashbacks, as they protect higher wall areas of the kitchen.
Behind Sinks and Hobs
Perfect for sinks and hob areas as splashbacks are easy to clean from grease and water splashes.
Statement Design Pieces
With a variety of options such as glass, tiles, and stones, splashbacks can be a key design focal point in your kitchen.
When to Choose Both
Oftentimes, you can also combine the two looks to create a clean aesthetic kitchen display. Standard upstands in most of the kitchen with a taller splashback behind sinks and hobs can help the kitchen give a cleaner look.
Ready to Elevate Your Kitchen with Seamless Style?
Marble, granite, and quartz are popular choices for upstands and splashbacks, giving your kitchen a sleek look.
By continuing your worktop material onto your walls, you’ll create a beautifully fluid, cohesive design that not only enhances style but also makes your kitchen feel more spacious and refined.
Transform your splash zones into standout features with natural stone sophistication.
Contact Marble Supreme today to explore bespoke upstand and splashback solutions tailored to your space.