When planning a kitchen upgrade, one of the most important steps is ensuring accurate measurements for your splashbacks. Whether you are renovating a full kitchen or simply updating your walls, correct sizing is essential for a clean, professional finish.
kitchen splashbacks are usually made to measure, especially when using glass. This means even small measuring errors can affect the final fit. Taking the time to measure properly helps avoid gaps, overlaps, or installation issues later on.
Many homeowners choose suppliers of kitchen splashbacks to ensure their measurements are turned into precise, custom-made glass panels that fit perfectly into their kitchen layout.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Unlike tiles, which can be adjusted during installation, glass splashbacks are cut to exact sizes before they arrive. This makes accuracy essential.
Incorrect measurements can lead to:
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Poor fit against walls or cabinets
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Gaps that expose wall areas
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Misalignment around sockets or appliances
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Extra costs for replacements or adjustments
Taking careful measurements ensures the splashback fits seamlessly and looks professionally installed.
Tools You Will Need
Before starting, it is important to gather the right tools. You will need:
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A steel measuring tape
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A notepad or measurement sheet
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A pencil for marking
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A spirit level (optional but helpful)
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A second person (recommended for larger areas)
Using proper tools helps improve accuracy and reduces the chance of mistakes.
Step 1: Identify the Areas You Want to Cover
Not every kitchen wall needs a splashback. The most common areas include:
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Behind the hob or cooker
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Behind the sink
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Along main food preparation areas
Start by deciding exactly which sections you want to cover. This will help you focus your measurements and avoid unnecessary costs.
Step 2: Measure the Width
Use a steel tape measure to measure the full width of the area from one end to the other.
If the splashback is going between two cabinets or walls, measure the distance between the inner edges.
Always measure at least twice to ensure accuracy, especially in older kitchens where walls may not be perfectly straight.
Step 3: Measure the Height
Next, measure the height from the worktop to the bottom of any upper cabinets or shelves.
If there are no upper units, decide how high you want the splashback to go.
Common height choices include:
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Standard full-height splashback behind hob
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Mid-height coverage behind sink
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Full wall coverage for a modern look
Consistency in height measurements helps create a balanced design.
Step 4: Check for Obstacles
Modern kitchens often include sockets, switches, and extractor fans that must be accounted for.
Mark the position of each obstacle carefully and measure:
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Distance from the floor or worktop
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Distance from the nearest edge
These measurements ensure precise cut-outs in the glass panel.
Step 5: Measure Multiple Points
Walls are not always perfectly straight, especially in older UK homes.
To avoid fitting issues, measure the width and height in multiple places:
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Top and bottom width
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Left and right height
If there are differences, always use the smallest measurement to ensure a proper fit.
Step 6: Consider Expansion Gaps
Although glass splashbacks are cut precisely, a small fitting tolerance may be required depending on installation type.
Allowing a small expansion gap ensures easier installation and reduces pressure on the glass once fitted.
This is especially important in kitchens with uneven surfaces or slight wall irregularities.
Step 7: Double-Check Everything
Before submitting your measurements, review all figures carefully.
Check:
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Widths and heights are consistent
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Socket positions are correctly marked
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Units are clearly written (mm or cm)
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No areas have been missed
A final check can prevent costly errors and delays.
Step 8: Take Photos for Reference
It is often helpful to take clear photos of your kitchen walls along with your measurements.
These images can help suppliers understand your layout and identify any potential issues before production.
This is especially useful for complex kitchen layouts.
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
Some of the most common errors include:
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Measuring only once instead of twice
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Forgetting to include sockets or switches
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Not accounting for uneven walls
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Using incorrect units (cm instead of mm)
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Guessing measurements instead of recording exact values
Avoiding these mistakes ensures a smoother ordering process.
Why Professional Made-to-Measure Splashbacks Are Better
While it is possible to measure yourself, professional made-to-measure services help reduce risk.
Custom kitchen splashbacks are manufactured based on your exact dimensions, ensuring a precise fit and clean finish.
This is especially important for glass panels, where accuracy directly affects installation quality.
The Role of Online Suppliers
Modern homeowners often prefer ordering kitchen splashbacks online due to convenience and customisation options.
Companies such as Direct Splashbacks offer made-to-measure glass solutions based on customer-provided measurements.
Business Details:
Direct Splashbacks
St. Andrews Business Centre
Mold, Flintshire
North Wales, CH7 1XB
Contact us: info@directsplashbacks.com
Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm
(Office only — no showroom. Online business only.)
This allows homeowners to design and order splashbacks without visiting physical stores.
Final Thoughts
Accurate measurement is the foundation of a successful kitchen splashback installation. Taking time to measure carefully ensures a perfect fit, smooth installation, and a professional finish.
With proper planning and attention to detail, kitchen splashbacks can transform a kitchen into a clean, modern, and highly functional space that lasts for years.