How to fix aluminium splashbacks

You can instantly update your kitchen with a new aluminium kitchen splashback panel, our aluminium range offers an easy-to-fix DIY solution that is grout free, fire resistant (B1 fire rating) and easy to clean.

Apart from the marble design, the AluSplash splashback range of panels are coated on both sides with different finishes. These consist of a light blue (Ocean Wave) and a metallic Ice White, a metallic petrol blue and a warm grey along with a traditional brushed steel finish and a metallic silver. Finally, there is a matt Carrara marble for a touch of luxe.

AluSplash is an aluminium substrate consisting of three layers. The fire-resistant mineral core is sandwiched between two skins of aluminium. These are then coated in a paint coating that is both heat resistant and anti-bacterial.

The panels are available in a standard size of 90x80cm with a thickness of 4mm, unlike our glass splashbacks and porcelain splashbacks, these panels can be cut down further if required. They can also be joined together to fit a larger area.

The panels come with a protective film on top, directional arrows are printed onto this film to aid installation. If you’re installing multiple panels, then line up these arrows in the same direction to ensure a consistent surface finish. It’s a good idea to also check the batch numbers as ideally, you’d want panels from the same batch to avoid any colour variance. If you receive different batches, then peel back about 10cm of the film and hold the panels vertically next to each other to see if they are different.

You’ll need to ensure the wall you are fixing the splashback panel to is smooth, clean and in good condition (no large holes, cracking plaster, grease etc.)

You can use sandpaper to smooth the wall and normal filler for any holes. Once re-sanded, cleaned and dry, you’re ready to fix your panel.

You’ll also need to buy Soudal Silirub 1 Clear Silicone to adhere the Alusplash panels to the wall. We recommend this particular product because it’s a low modulus, acetoxy silicone sealant that contains powerful anti-fungicidal agents, providing protection against mould growth. It has both high and low temperature resistance, whilst providing primer-less adhesion, with no shrinkage.

You’ll first need to measure the space to ensure the panel will be affixed in the right place, due to thermal expansion you’ll need to ensure there is at least 1.5mm gap around the panel’s perimeter so it can expand and contract safely. The panel also needs to be set back at least 30mm from the edge of your hob.

When lifting your panel into place, it’s wise to have someone to help you and to use a tile suction cup to avoid it bending due to the weight of the panel.

A good tip is to mark the protective film with your preferred front and back to avoid any confusion.

If you do need to cut the panel, then always work on the reverse side (marked back). This ensures that no rough burrs or uneven cuts show on the front side. You’ll need an Aluminium blade on your cutter for a precise, clean cut. Only remove the back panels protective film once all the cutting has been completed.

Once the protective film has been removed from the back of the panel, apply the tape and adhesive to the back panel. You should mark two 5mm lines on all visible edges and then mark 400mm across the panel, this is where you’ll apply the double-sided VHB tape. Next, apply the silicone in zig zags in between the lines of tape.

If you’re using an edge profile, mark the position of the mitres required for a cut line at 45°, using a circular saw cut the profiles before attaching them to the back of the panel.

If you’ve chosen to attached panels together then you can use a joining strip, either attach the strip to the panels when off the wall, to create one large panel or fit one panel and then apply the strip to the next panel, sliding it behind the fitted panel.

Then, apply the panel against the wall and once in place, peel away the front protective film. Apply silicone into the 1.5mm gaps between the panels, worktops etc. to avoid water infiltration.

Never clean your panel when it’s hot, you’ll need to wait until it comes back to room temperature.

Avoid any hot steam from directly facing the panel as this can stain it, similarly, avoid hitting the surface with utensils, knives etc. as this can scratch the surface coating.

To clean the surface, ensure it’s cleaned regularly with a soft microfibre cloth with water and for stubborn stains you can use a mild detergent such as Fila’s Multi Surface Cleaner. Avoid using any acidic, caustic or abrasive cleaning detergents or materials to clean the panel as it will damage it. Detergents with bleach, baking soda or other stain removers shouldn’t be used.

Scratches on the coated surface can’t be repaired however we recommend searching for a local SMART repairman as they can use specialist tools to blend the repair with the surrounding panel.

If you’ve noticed a blemish on the panel, it’s most likely due to limescale in the water. In some instances, you can set a hair dryer on medium heat and, whilst applying the heat from approximately 2 inches away from the stain, you can gently buff away the mark with a clean cloth. Continue this technique until the blemish is gone. For more advice, visit https://alusplash.com/gb/care-maintenance/