An apron above the work surface is an indispensable attribute in the design of the kitchen. It not only protects the surface from drops of water and fat, but also performs a decorative function. Coverage may be inconspicuous or may become the main highlight of the interior. The mirror apron for the kitchen looks especially impressive. We will talk about him in this material. We will pay close attention to the characteristics of the material, its advantages and disadvantages, as well as examine the reviews about mirror aprons for the kitchen. Photos of stylish interiors will show all the charm of such a bold design decision.
Material Features
An apron in the kitchen is primarily needed to protect the wall above the work surface from pollution. It is almost impossible to clean the plaster or wallpaper from traces of grease or lime stains. Traditionally, ceramic tiles are used to wall the walls above the work area, but materials such as artificial stone, tempered glass, plastic and metal have already taken root in the modern design. Mirror aprons for the kitchen look incredibly stylish. They organically fit into any direction of design, be it minimalism, hi-tech, loft or classic.
Mirrored aprons for the kitchen (photo below) are made of tempered glass. Its feature is increased strength and safety. Even if the apron breaks, no one will suffer: it crumbles into small, non-sharp fragments.
Manufacturers offer both light mirrors for cladding and tinted ones. An apron with golden tinting will look attractive with wooden facades of a kitchen unit or countertop, and a black apron in a minimalist kitchen. For the classic interior, a mirror version with matte patterns obtained by etching technology, or art painting in stained glass technique is suitable. Of course, it’s more difficult to care for decorated surfaces than for a smooth mirror panel.
Such material in the interior is used to expand the space, so when making a small kitchen, such an apron will be most welcome. A reflective surface will also help improve room proportions. For large kitchens, preference should be given to mirror tiles or mosaics. Their shape may be different.
Mirror apron for the kitchen will make the room brighter. Several recessed luminaires above the surface can replace local lighting throughout the area. Mirrors “double” the number of light sources.
Benefits
Like any other materials, mirrors have advantages and disadvantages that you should be aware of before making a final decision on the decoration of the kitchen. The advantages of coatings include:
- Smoothness and lack of pores. Due to this, all contaminants are easily removed from the surface with a glass cleaner.
- Resistance to aggressive action. A mirrored apron for the kitchen will only suffer if fluoric acid, which is not used in everyday life, gets on the surface.
- Hygiene Features of the material do not allow mold and fungus to settle on the kitchen apron. Any microorganisms are easily removed from the panel using disinfectants. The mirror surface will not be affected.
- Durability and safety. The tempered glass apron, installed in compliance with the technology, is very difficult to break. Even if you try to do it on purpose. With proper care, this finish will last for decades.
- Stylish appearance. A mirror apron can decorate and make original even the simplest kitchen.
disadvantages
Disadvantages of finishing material are also available:
- Despite the special properties of tempered glass, it is still less impact resistant than ceramic, stone or wood.
- Scratches. The surface must not be cleaned with abrasive substances. Minor scratches will make it cloudy and unattractive.
- Frequent care. On the mirror surface of pollution, drops of fat and water look more noticeable, so the apron will have to be wiped more often.
- Order. The reflective properties of the material visually "double" the number of objects on the table, and the room looks cluttered. A kitchen decorated with a mirror apron should be kept in perfect order.
Kinds
There are three types of mirror aprons: panels, tiles and mosaics.
The panels are a continuous canvas up to 3 meters long. The corner or U-shaped kitchen can be decorated with cast material, while the joints will only be in the corners. The canvas is light, tinted, etched. You can decorate it with stained glass painting. Classic white kitchen with a mirror apron looks very impressive. The room looks stylish and elegant.
Mirror tiles on an apron for the kitchen are also a popular solution. They make it in a standard rectangular and square shape. The tile originally imitates brickwork looks original. Caring for her is more difficult than for a solid panel. The fact is that the joints between the elements are covered with silicone sealant, the surface acquires a relief, and dust and grease collect at the seams. It is more difficult to remove dirt from the recesses than from the glass plane.
Mosaic is suitable for spacious loft or classic kitchens. It represents a lot of small elements assembled on a flexible plastic mesh for ease of installation. A kitchen apron with a mosaic assembled from particles of different shapes and sizes looks amazing. The light refracts on the edges, and the wall shines as if strewn with crystals.
Mounting
An apron made of mirror tiles or mosaics is installed using a technology similar to working with ceramic tiles. Seams are covered with transparent silicone sealant.
The panels are suspended or mounted on tile adhesive. In the first case, the wall is leveled, covered with an antifungal composition. Holes for fastenings are made in the canvas. To do this, you need a diamond drill. During operation, the surface of the mirror must be constantly cooled so that it does not crack from overheating caused by friction. At home, you can do this with a thin stream of water. At marked points drill holes for fasteners. Next, the mirror panel is mounted to the wall with the help of special accessories. Places of fastenings are closed with decorative caps. Corner joints are coated with silicone.
The process of installing the panel on tile adhesive is similar to laying tiles, however, it requires prior alignment of the surface.
Care and reviews
It’s easy to look after a mirror apron. Glass cleaners or a soft cloth are suitable for cleaning it. The places next to the stove and sink are most polluted. Due to the fact that the surface of the apron is not afraid of chemical exposure, it can be cleaned with conventional means to remove grease and limescale. The main thing is that they do not contain abrasive particles that can scratch it.
According to reviews, the mirror apron for the kitchen looks incredibly beautiful and easy to operate. Some owners note the difficulties in caring for panels with a matte pattern and the darkening of the silicone between the mirror tiles.
Conclusion
Mirror apron in the interior of the kitchen - a stylish and original way of decorating the room. With it, you can make a small kitchen visually larger and lighter, and in a spacious harmoniously combine space.