This article discusses the features of such a finishing option as a plastic kitchen apron: technical and operational parameters, properties, advantages and disadvantages of products. The text contains a classification of screens available on the market, as well as a description of the technology according to which they are installed. The article allows you to get acquainted with the average prices for products and the opinion of consumers.
Using a plastic apron, you can budget and stylishly decorate the interior of the kitchen
Content
Apron for the kitchen made of plastic and the specificity of its application
The kitchen belongs to the category of premises with difficult operating conditions, where furniture, as well as wall decoration, are exposed to significant loads every day. For this reason, it is necessary to give preference to practical and durable materials that are not afraid of temperature extremes, the influence of high humidity and regular contamination.
Plastic panels are used to decorate the work area in the kitchen
The space of the working area is limited by wall cabinets on one side, and a tabletop on the other. To effectively organize this area, you can buy a kitchen apron made of plastic. This material will serve as an inexpensive and high quality coating with optimal performance.
Classification and dimensions of kitchen apron panels
Plastic panels are used as a material for finishing various surfaces in rooms with different operating conditions. As the basis for the manufacture of an apron for the kitchen, plastic panels have been used relatively recently. However, excellent performance and superior design have made these products very popular with consumers.
There are different types of products on sale, differing from each other in the structure of the plastic and in size. The maximum length of classic panels made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is 3 m. The width varies between 10-50 cm. Classic panels are decorated with drawings applied in the factory.If you follow all the requirements of the technology, then after laying the seams will be difficult to notice.
Aprons for kitchen made of polycarbonate sheets can be matte, glossy or textured
Sheet material in the form of a lining made of plastic has a length of 3 m. The width of such products does not exceed 12.5 cm. After mounting the lining on the wall, a finish with an inhomogeneous surface is obtained. The joints between the sheets are very noticeable.
Note! The thickness of the products affects the degree of rigidity and reliability of the kitchen screen. The higher this figure, the longer the apron will last.
Polycarbonate sheets are considered the most practical option. They can have a glossy or matte finish. Their size range is diverse. The surface of polycarbonate products allows you to apply any patterns and designs. In the photo of chic kitchens, you can see unusual options for sheets with a textured surface.
These products realistically simulate:
- a natural stone;
- ceramic tiles;
- brickwork and other materials.
The kitchen apron made of polycarbonate has no seams, which has a beneficial effect on the duration of the product's operational period
The apron made on the basis of polycarbonate is considered the most environmentally friendly and heat-resistant of the materials listed. After installation, a monolithic surface without a single seam is obtained.
The choice of an apron for the kitchen made of plastic: a catalog of photo ideas for the interior
Most often, ABS plastic is used for the manufacture of panels for an apron in the kitchen. This material is durable and allows you to simulate various surfaces. Due to modern production technologies, plastic sheet meets the basic standards that apply to products used in the kitchen. The material has properties such as heat resistance and moisture resistance. The plastic care system is very simple, and the modern assortment has a wide selection of textures and colors, so that each customer gets the opportunity to choose the finish for any interior design.
Kitchen aprons made of PVC panels with a glossy surface look very attractive and voluminous in the photo. Such plastic reflects light well and creates the effect of lightness in the room, visually increasing its space. For a cozy kitchen, it is best to use a matte finish. A transparent plastic screen will help to further increase the volume.
For finishing the entire wall near the working area in the kitchen, it is better to use monolithic sheets of ABS plastic
Light shades are preferable to select for small rooms. The dark color of the apron can be used as a contrasting background if the room has light furniture. For the design of the kitchen in its classic design, screens with imitation of brick or masonry, as well as a natural wooden surface, are suitable.
Helpful advice! With the help of LEDs, you can not only improve visibility in the working area, but also create a light design in this part of the room. Plastic screens with backlight look very impressive and unusual in the photo of kitchens. At the same time, you do not need to have professional knowledge and skills to install them.
Design of aprons panels for the kitchen with photo printing
On sale there are options for screens decorated with photo printing. A special technology is used to apply the image. As a result, the drawing is rich, bright and durable. A wide variety of subjects are applied to the plastic. Such products can be purchased ready-made or to order, having previously selected the picture you like. In the catalogs of aprons for the kitchen made of plastic, you can pick up products decorated with 3D images.
Screens with photo printing can add a special charm to the kitchen interior
Popular design options for the kitchen:
- reproductions of paintings;
- images of fruits, vegetables, spices, coffee and tea;
- bright natural landscapes;
- floral motives;
- laconic panoramas of city streets, etc.
In order for the drawing to look harmoniously in the interior and not stand out from the overall design, the image on the screen is considered not separately, but as part of a single composition with a furniture set. At the same time, the apron can fit into the interior or be used as a bright accent if the furnishings are made in a restrained range.
In the catalogs of many manufacturers, you can not only familiarize yourself with samples of finishing materials. They also contain photos of plastic aprons for the kitchen, placed in a specific setting. Thanks to this, the buyer can evaluate, while in the store, how profitable this or that product model will look in the interior of his premises.
An example of using a backlit apron as a bright accent in the interior of the kitchen
Why are plastic kitchen aprons good: the pros and cons of products
The characteristics of plastic intended for finishing the working area in the kitchen are not limited to its decorative properties. Before buying a material, you should pay special attention to performance indicators, as well as take into account the practicality of the panels and the degree of ease of use.
The influence of an increased level of moisture negatively affects the service life and visual appeal of products. Therefore, the panels must be resistant to high temperatures, as well as the dirt that gets on their surface every day.
Helpful advice!On screens decorated with pictures, traces of dirt are less visible than on products with a plain surface.
With the help of a glossy apron, you can visually lighten the interior of the kitchen
Why is it profitable to buy an apron for the kitchen: the advantages of plastic screens
Aprons made on the basis of plastic are characterized by a large number of advantages. Many of them confirm the relevance of using this finish in a kitchen.
In favor of buying a plastic apron for the kitchen, the following characteristics indicate:
- the presence of a smooth surface that looks almost seamless or with subtle joints;
- democratic cost of the material in comparison with other finishing options;
- a large selection of colors and decorative patterns;
- high quality images that are resistant to abrasion and burnout under the influence of ultraviolet radiation;
- the ability to apply a unique pattern to the surface on request;
- simple cleaning system that allows the use of detergents;
- the coating adheres tightly to the surface, hiding minor imperfections of the base and unevenness;
- moisture resistance, allowing you to clean the material with a wet method;
- cutting the material, as well as the formation of holes in the panels for socket installation very easy;
- the ability to withstand the influence of temperature for + 80 ° C without deformation;
- a simple and quick installation system that can be carried out independently without the help of specialists.
It is worth considering that the plastic apron is susceptible to mechanical damage, therefore it is important not to use aggressive cleaning agents and brushes.
The sheet material is lightweight, so after its installation the loads on the walls do not increase, as is the case with tiles or natural stone masonry, and it is easy to replace outdated or damaged panels with new ones.
Disadvantages of plastic kitchen panels as decoration
Despite the impressive list of advantages, screens designed for finishing the working area in the kitchen also have disadvantages. The material is heat resistant, but the limit that the panels can withstand is limited. If the finish is in direct contact with a temperature of more than + 80 ° C, the screen will not only undergo deformational changes, but will also release toxic substances that are extremely harmful to human health.
The durability of the material does not apply to mechanical damage. It is not possible to partially repair these areas or mask them. A complete apron replacement will be required. The same applies to active cleaners or those containing abrasive particles that mechanically damage the panel when removing dirt. It is also worth considering that if the installation technology is violated, the apron may deform over time.
Note! The maximum lifespan of the plastic panel is 5 years. After that, the screen loses its attractiveness and becomes unusable.
With the help of interesting lighting solutions, you can favorably emphasize a plastic kitchen apron
Features and properties of aprons for the kitchen: PVC panels
Panels made of polyvinyl chloride are the cheapest options for decorating the working area in the kitchen. Moreover, their appearance is no different from the screens made of more expensive materials. This explains the popularity of PVC aprons.
Related article:
Aprons for the kitchen, skinned: photos of the best design ideas
Photos of modern interior solutions. Production of a kitchen apron from plastic, MDF, ceramic tiles. Independent measurements and installation.
According to consumers, an attractive appearance is the only worthwhile advantage of plastic kitchen aprons, customer reviews from the forums confirm this:
“Plastic panels are, of course, inexpensive. But given that in fact they are a one-time finishing option, the price of the material turns out to be quite high. In our case, the joy was enough for exactly six months, after which the surface of the apron became dull and covered with unattractive scratches. In my opinion, it is better to spend it once and get a durable finish than to replace the screen in the kitchen every year. "
Ekaterina Solntseva, St. Petersburg
An example of a successful application of a plastic apron with wood imitation
“Last year the kitchen was redecorated. The budget was limited, so my family and I decided to buy a plastic panel. At that time, finishing the apron with ceramic tiles was not affordable, and the seller in the store assured that buying a plastic apron for the kitchen was the best option.
Indeed, the coating turned out to be beautiful and monolithic, but there is one "but". It is necessary to clean the surface as soon as dirt gets on it. Otherwise, greasy drops and drips are eaten. There is also no opportunity to use a hard brush or aggressive products. You will have to choose between greasy spots or a dull but clean surface. As a temporary option, a plastic panel may be good, but if you want to make a good repair, it is better to choose something else. "
Evgeny Matyukha, Moscow
“Given the low cost of the panels, I didn't expect too much from them. Both the appearance and the practicality of this material are fully consistent with their price. The only drawback concerns the dismantling of the material. The process of installing a plastic apron did not cause any difficulties. The panels are well fixed with liquid nails. But filming them after that is hard work. One cannot do without the use of a construction hair dryer. "
Stanislav Sidyukhin, Yekaterinburg
Due to the wide variety of colors and textures, plastic aprons can be used for interior decoration in various styles.
Helpful advice! To avoid problems with dismantling the plastic backsplash in the kitchen, it is better to use ordinary cement mortar, which is used for installing ceramic tiles.
Pros and cons of kitchen aprons made of ABS plastic, their cost
Screens made on the basis of ABS plastic are almost on par with ceramic tiles in price.However, this finishing option is much cheaper than heat-resistant glass, with which it has similar decorative characteristics.
Average price of kitchen aprons made of 1.5 mm thick ABS plastic:
| Panel size, mm | price, rub. |
| 960x485 | 300 |
| 1000x600 | 800 |
| 2000x600 | 1600 |
| 3000x600 | 3100 |
The average cost of products with a length of 3 m, decorated with high-quality photo printing, varies in the range of 2200-3500 rubles / piece.
Advantages and disadvantages of ABS plastic products:
| Minuses | pros |
| The shade of the material has a slight yellowness | The panel is lighter than glass |
| Cleaning is allowed only with products with fine abrasive particles, it is not recommended to use a metal brush | Shows resistance to abrasives |
| Surface burns out under ultraviolet light | Environmentally friendly and safe |
| It is allowed to use only gentle agents, the material is afraid of solvents, acetone and ammonia | Chemical resistance |
| The range of finished products is limited, in most cases you have to resort to ordering a design on an individual basis, which significantly affects the cost | Large selection of textures |
How to properly care for a kitchen apron panel
The cleaning system for a kitchen apron formed from plastic panels is very simple and easy. Periodically, the surface of the material should be wiped with a soft sponge. It must first be moistened with water. For cleaning plastic, it is allowed to use liquids intended for washing dishes. After removing the dirt, dry the surface thoroughly with a cloth.
Kitchen aprons made of plastic require special care and adherence to operating rules
Experts do not recommend using for cleaning products containing aggressive chemicals and coarse abrasive particles. Otherwise, you may scratch the surface or spoil the decorative pattern, if any. The use of harsh chemicals and solvents will cause blistering and delamination of the material.
Children should be supervised very carefully, because the plastic panel is afraid of scratches and bumps, it can be easily punctured with a sharp or hard object. To a greater extent, this drawback concerns cheap screens, but in any case, you should be careful with the material. It is not recommended to install plastic in the placement area gas stove... The influence of high temperatures will lead to melting of the product and its deformation.
Helpful advice!An optional plastic shield can be used to protect the panel installed near an open fire.
For small kitchens, it is better to use glossy types of aprons.
Mounting a plastic panel in the kitchen: how to fix an apron with your own hands
The method of fixing the plastic panel to the wall depends on the type of plastic chosen. If the base is carefully prepared, does not have irregularities and defects, then it is most advisable to use liquid nails or cement mortar. If there are flaws on the wall, it is recommended to use a special frame in the form of a crate.
The first stage of installing plastic panels: how to cut the material
First you need to decide on the size of the apron. An ideal option would be a product that goes beyond the level of the tabletop by about 10-30 mm. Panel height can be any:
- reach the level of wall cabinets;
- go outside the headset;
- be located in the area between the cabinets and the worktop.
Plastic aprons are mounted on glue or self-tapping screws, but some manufacturers offer customers special mounts, which allow you to easily change the material if necessary
The choice of panel height depends on the design. If the edge of the screen is in the middle of the wall, the seam area should be carefully sealed and decorated with molding.After that, you can start cutting the material in accordance with the selected design and installation method. How to cut PVC panels everyone chooses for himself. Professionals recommend using a small-toothed cutter or hacksaw for this purpose.
How to independently install an apron in the kitchen: basic fixation methods
After the material is cut, you can start installing it. There are several ways to fix plastic sheets.
For these purposes, the following can be used:
- adhesive composition;
- self-tapping screws;
- adhesive composition and lathing;
- self-tapping screws and lathing.
It is important to understand that the life of a plastic apron is not too long, therefore it can be considered a temporary solution when renovating a kitchen
If the panel is glued directly to the wall, it is advisable to first clean the base from dirt and dust. In this case, the organization of the backlight is possible if the LEDs are laid in pre-formed channels. This installation method is extremely simple, although the process of removing the apron will take some effort. In this case, it is impossible to maintain the integrity of the panel after removal.
For fixing with self-tapping screws, you will need to form holes in the plastic and the wall. To do this, it is better to use the building level and preliminary markings. When holes are formed in the wall, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned, otherwise dust will fall on the back of the screen, which is unacceptable for transparent products. An apron installed in a similar way can be removed very easily, although you will have to work hard on masking the caps from the screws.
It will take additional time and costs to build the lathing, but this technology has several advantages. Firstly, it becomes possible to solve the problem with serious surface flaws. Secondly, the space inside the frame is suitable for installing fluorescent or LED lighting.
Aprons made of ABS plastic can imitate different surfaces - stone, tile or brick
After reviewing the basic information on plastic screens, you can come to the conclusion that these products are easy to use and allow you to install yourself. Finding out what weaknesses the material has, as well as observing the rules of caring for it, you can increase the service life of the plastic apron and maintain its attractiveness. A short service life can be viewed as a disadvantage on the one hand, and an advantage on the other (if the owner of the apartment prefers to regularly make changes to the situation).
