Tile Kitchen Apron

Ceramic tiles - the leader among the finishing materials for the kitchen. The tile has high strength, durable and does not show sensitivity to the aggressive environment of the room, where something is constantly being prepared. The kitchen apron is the separate zone located between the top lockers (regiments) and a sink, a plate, a working surface. This area is considered the most "problematic", this is where the highest level of pollution. Drops of water, grease, sprays from cooking up food on the stove - all this settles on the kitchen apron. In addition, it is easy to accidentally hit the lid of the pot or a ladle while cooking. Because of this, the area can not be trimmed with a normal coating. The material must be durable and not afraid of detergents. Registration of a kitchen apron, as a rule, is carried out by means of a ceramic tile. This coating provides not only reliable protection for the problem area, but also allows you to create an accent in the interior, its zest. Consider the advantages of aprons for kitchen tiles, their features and methods of laying material.

Features and benefits of apron from the tile

Ceramic tile or tile is a versatile material for rooms with a complex microclimate (bathroom, kitchen). It is used to finish the floor, walls and kitchen aprons. In comparison with other materials, tile has several advantages:

• The tile has a margin of safety. With proper care coverage will last more than a dozen years.
• With a smooth tiled surface, it is easy to erase traces of dirt. The material is not afraid of either water or aggressive household chemicals, including compositions with an abrasive effect.
• Ceramic tile withstands both low and high temperatures. The tile does not respond to changes in moisture levels, which cannot be said about wood, for example.
• Simplicity and variety of styling options. Even a novice will cope with this finishing material.
• A rich palette of colors and ornaments. It is very easy to choose a tile for a specific style, since the assortment will still make it fluctuate between several options. Modern building stores offer a wide selection of tiles with large prints and high-grade paintings.

Of the few drawbacks of tile note:

• The need for careful maintenance of the seams. They will have to be updated regularly with a grout.
• Before installing the tiles will have to release from the furniture the whole wall.
• To remove the apron from the tile is quite difficult.
• The surface of the wall should be perfectly flat.

In comparison with other materials, ceramic tile becomes the undisputed leader for finishing kitchen aprons.

Key tile selection criteria

Unfortunately, due to the large variety of varieties, not every type of ceramic tile is suitable for finishing a kitchen apron. In this case, a rich assortment played a cruel joke with the material, often leading buyers to a dead end. When choosing a ceramic tile, you need to focus on three criteria:

• Design (appearance).
• Specifications.
• Quality.

The tile for facing a kitchen apron must have the following technical characteristics:

• Low porosity of the material and increased resistance to acids. This will allow you to calmly wash the surface of the apron and not worry about the destruction of the material with which it is trimmed.
• Glossy surface. Textured tiles are not suitable for aprons. The presence of the relief will complicate the cleaning, as fat and dirt will get clogged up in shallow depressions.
• Tiles should be designed specifically for wall decoration. Such material has a specific marking (hand icon). Floor tiles are thicker and stronger, but these characteristics are useless when finishing walls.
• The presence of a protective layer that protects the base from damage. On the series of such tiles is marked "AA" or "A."
• The thickness of the tile for the kitchen apron should vary in the range of 0.6-1 cm.

As for the design of tile, monochromatic square tiles have long been competing with ceramics of unusual configurations and colors. In modern interiors, more and more modules of rectangular bricks (hog), hexagonal "honeycombs" and even squares and triangles with wavy edges (a great addition for art nouveau). The latter can be found in the author's collections of finishing materials. The range of colors also delights customers with its variety. Manufacturers of ceramic tiles also caught up with the ombre effect. Elements with color gradation, where shades are selected according to the principle of analogy from dark to light, with an extraordinary touch will be added to the interior of the kitchen. Floral ornaments, ornate patterns, complex geometry, whole landscapes and panoramas - the range of coating design variations is really huge.
The quality of the product can be checked directly in the store. You need to selectively take two tiles for comparison. First, combining both fragments, you need to check how smooth the side edges are. The gap between them should be less than 0.05 cm. In that tile, which is laid seamlessly, there should be no gap between the tiles at all. Next, check for roughness, chips, cracks, "colored spots" - places of uneven staining of the front surface. All these defects are considered marriage. On the reverse side of the chips, too, should not be, but the relief provides a good coupling between the tile and the surface, so the "roughness" here is mandatory.

Colors and Style

For classic kitchens, restrained tones are more suitable: beige, cream, white, burgundy, and coffee. Also the classic accepts the design "marbled". The tile on the kitchen apron can overlap with the worktop material or the floor covering. In the trendy Scandinavian direction they use blue, turquoise, green, blue tones. In the interiors in the style of Provence (subtype of country), combine patterned tiles with monotonous, to create a light rustic atmosphere of ease and simplicity. For Art Deco (modern) fit tile black, gray, purple, blue. The apron for the kitchen in the loft style is trimmed with ceramic tiles "under the brick" of red, brown, white, cherry shades. The same interior is suitable for tiles, the surface of which imitates the texture of wood. In eclecticism, a kitchen apron usually becomes an accent zone. Therefore, for its design use tiles of bright shades: yellow, green, pink. For modern high-tech kitchens, silver and mirror coating, black glossy tile are suitable. Ethnic Moroccan interiors are decorated with multicolored tiles with a complex pattern. The mosaic method of laying, where the motley tile alternates with monotonous (lilac, blue, yellow), also suits them. The color scheme of the marine style is limited to shades of brown and yellow (imitates sand) and blue (ocean, sea). For minimalism, a combination of dark and light colors is selected. For example, white and accent purple, turquoise, green, terracotta.

Designers recommend choosing the color of ceramics for an apron, either under a large object (set), or under the rest of the room decoration. If the choice can not be done, then stop at the neutrals: white, black, gray.

Kinds

Depending on the type of raw materials and production technology, ceramic tiles are classified into the following types:

• Monokottura. Raw material (white clay) is subjected to a single firing. Monokottura has high strength, high weight and is mainly used for floor finishing.
• Bikottura. Red clay double-fired tile is lightweight and is considered a facing material exclusively for walls. For aprons suitable.
• Monoporosis It has a high porosity and is not suitable for finishing the kitchen apron.
• Clinker. The tile is produced by extrusion. The brick tile has the increased durability. Most often the surface is covered with a special "gloss" - a thin layer of glass. Suitable for flooring and kitchen aprons.
• Cotto. Red clay tile made by extrusion technology. For wall decoration is rarely used. It has a matte finish, but is sometimes used for lining kitchen aprons.
• Majolica. The material has a large-pore structure, therefore it is not suitable for finishing the apron.

Depending on the shape of the tile is classified into the following types:

• Square. Classic tile shape. Square tile can not be called boring, since the brevity of the form is filled with a rich assortment of colors, patterns and textures.
• Rectangular. In common people called pig or "subway". It has facets at the edges, which give the apron a volume and increase the similarity between tile and natural brick. Tile is usually laid in a razbezhku, that is, the edge of each brick coincides with the middle of the tiles laid above and below.
• Hexagon. This form is sometimes called honeycomb, as the tiles resemble wax cells of bees. On kitchen aprons looks stylish, fresh and original.
• Mosaic. This is mainly square tile, but very small in size, from which they collect drawings.
• Patchwork. It has a square shape. Each tile is covered with a special pattern, and together the surface resembles a "patchwork quilt", that is, it is assembled from unsuited pieces, the patterns on which do not match.
• Figured. This group includes any tile of complex geometric shapes (sometimes with wavy edges).

There is another type of tile, which is not amenable to classification. The method of laying tile or image on its surface creates a 3-D effect. The most primitive option is considered to be the laying of the “rhombus”, which was used in antiquity when facing tracks and platforms. The result was a embossed, convex geometric pattern. Some aprons spread tiles - ceramic tiles made of baked clay with a glossy surface. They have an impressive thickness, so not suitable for each interior. Especially for kitchen aprons, you can choose a set of tiles that are assembled into a single picture. A pattern (landscape, panorama, still life, flower composition) is applied to the surface by photo printing, which is secured from above with a protective layer.

Dimensions

As for the size of the apron itself, then its width and height are selected individually for each apartment. It is necessary to consider the following nuances:

• View of the plate. Standard for gas stoves aprons do a little higher because of the greater distance between the hood and the hob.
• The height of the top of the headset. It is calculated on the basis of the growth of the mistress of the kitchen. It should be convenient for her to reach the upper cabinets. And already from the height of the shelves calculate the size of the apron.
• Stocks. Apron to protect the wall must go to 2-3 cm beyond the boundaries of the headset.
  The width of the apron is affected only by the "accuracy" of the placement of the hob, sink, working area on the table. Here, too, it is necessary to make small stocks.

For decorating the apron usually choose a standard tile 10x10 cm. Slightly less common are larger options:

• Rectangular tile 10x30.
• Large square tile 20x20.

Even less often you can find a rectangular "hog" the size of 20x30. Large tiles are not recommended to lay out aprons in small cramped kitchens. For such rooms, any large elements or prints fall under the taboo, as they make the room visually even smaller. But in large spaces such a picture is not exactly lost.

Materials

To work with tiles will require the following materials:

• Grout for joints.
• Primer.
• Silicone.
• Leveling mass (putty).
• Tile adhesive

The leveling mass seals up cracks and defects in the surface of the wall, previously cleared of dirt and previous coating. Then it is primed. Next, pre-diluted glue is applied to the dried surface and the tile is fixed. Work begins with the center of the apron. After she "grabs", hold grout. At the end of the edge pour silicone sealant.

Styling methods

In addition to the variety of colors, patterns / patterns and textures, there are also many options for laying ceramic tiles. Creative individuals prefer to choose complex ways: "ornament", "kaleidoscope", modular, mosaic. In the first two variants combine tiles of the same size, but in different colors and with unlike patterns on the surfaces. Before laying, it is recommended to make a drawing of the finished picture. For a modular method, usually choose a tile of two or three different sizes and combine it, as prompted by fantasy. The mosaic method involves the assembly of "tiled panels" of small parts. Work may take weeks, but the result is worth it. For these purposes, sell a special small tiles. Even more prosaic options (herringbone, standard, brick laying) can look beautiful and unusual, if you carefully choose a tile of several colors.

Standard

This method is also called the classic. Tile fit "seam in the seam." The tile forms even rows with no displacements. This option is suitable for most styles. It is simple to perform and economical in terms of material consumption. As a rule, they use either tile of one shade, or create a contrast or color gradation with smooth transitions of tones.

Diagonal

Another simple tile laying option. Tile feature along the diagonal lines. The result is a series of regular rhombuses. Top and bottom apron ends with triangles. If you make the calculations correctly, the material consumption will be the same as with the standard method of laying. The tile is simply split in the middle into two triangles, which are used to decorate the edges of the apron. The diagonal method is often combined with the standard one.

With offset

Laying with offset looks good on a rectangular tile. Examples of this method can be seen on the walls of brick buildings. Each subsequent row is shifted by half the width of the "pig". It turns out that the joint between the tiles is located strictly in the middle of the tile from the previous row. This option is suitable for styles loft, high-tech, fusion. Looks great laying with an offset on the mirror and metal tiles. In terms of material savings and practicality, this method is on a par with standard and diagonal.

Herringbone

For the layout of the Christmas tree use the tile "pig". Only from a rectangular tile this drawing will turn out. "Herringbone" is also used for floorboard. First, markup is applied to the wall surface. In this case, the accuracy of the measurements and the quality of the tiles are of great importance. Since when laying the herringbone, the seams are clearly visible, and the slightest discrepancies between the fragments will immediately become noticeable. Experts advise to choose a product from one batch to protect themselves from fiasco and re-styling. From the tile form rows, reminiscent of the structure of this Christmas tree. Each "branch" slightly leans on the next one, with which it intersects at a right angle diagonally. This decor will be appropriate in classic, rustic and even some modern styles. In the latter case, the color of the tile surface is of more importance.

Chess

This method of laying got its name because of the similarity of the apron with a chessboard. As a rule, use a tile of two colors. If the apron should be an accent, then pick up two contrasting tones. The tile is laid in a standard or diagonal way. However, each tile of one color should be surrounded by tiles of a different shade. Sometimes, the third inserts or fragments with an ornament are added to the two tones in order to revive the surface, to make it more frivolous. This option is suitable for country style.

Linear

Linear way of laying on the execution does not differ from the standard. In this case, greater importance is given to the duet texture and color tile. They are combined in various combinations, but with the observance of one rule: lines of the same type form tiles. This option is suitable for cramped kitchens with small aprons. Horizontal lines visually spread the space wide.

Kaleidoscope

Laying "Kaleidoscope" is suitable for mischievous, optimistic interiors, in eclectic interiors. For decoration use tiles of different shades and textures, which are laid out in a chaotic manner. This is a great option to show the creative side of your personality. In many ways, a kaleidoscope resembles a mosaic method. For work, you can buy a set of tile patchwork.

Mirror apron

The apron from a mirror tile - the magnificent decorative decision for stylish kitchens. The basis of the material is tempered glass. It is slightly inferior to ceramics in strength, but the difference is minimal. Due to the reflective surface you can visually enlarge the room. Tile in the form of rhombuses is somewhat reminiscent of a carriage fastener and is suitable not only for the classics, but also for the capricious palace style. The main disadvantage of such a surface is its marcos. Любые потеки воды, отпечатки пальцев или капельки брызнувшего жира необходимо сразу же счищать с плитки, в противном случае она будет смотреться неухожено. Зеркальную поверхность нельзя чистить средствами с абразивным эффектом.

Фартук из металла

Фартук из металла стал модной тенденцией последних лет. Дизайнеры охотно используют это решение для оформления кухонь в стилях хай тек и лофт. Many people mistakenly believe that steel looks too cold. Her "temperature" can be increased by surrounding objects and finishes. Metal aprons become a cozy element of the interior, if they are combined with wood, textured plaster, granite, warm-colored stone or vinyl wallpaper in pastel colors. Another option for an organic combination is steel and glass surfaces. Metal aprons can be matte and glossy. The first option is perfect for small kitchens. Stainless steel apron can be made by hand, cutting a whole sheet to the desired size or by collecting it from the pieces using the mosaic technique. With a mirror tile they are united by the general lack - marzimnost.

Conclusion

When buying a tile, be sure to pay attention to the marking by tone. The fact is that during the firing shades of the material may vary. At first glance, the difference may seem insignificant, but when comparing the two samples the differences will become apparent. There is also such a thing as the difference between the reference and the actual size of the tile. It is indicated on each batch as a caliber. With full compliance, it will be zero. If the caliber is more than 1 mm, then when laying the tile there will be problems with the mismatch of the seams. In this case, you need to buy either another tile, or pick up batches with the same caliber. Also, do not forget about the stock of material that will be needed to fit the apron to the desired dimensions: decorate its edges or lay down a complex pattern of tiles with intricate styling.