Tiles used to be the obvious choice for splashbacks. That was just how it was. You’d walk into any kitchen reno store and rows of mosaics, subway tiles, and grout samples would line the walls. But lately, there’s been a shift. More and more people are leaning into something cleaner, sharper, and, frankly, easier to live with glass splashbacks.
They’re no longer a novelty. Glass has become the go-to for many modern Australian homes — not just because it looks sleek, but because it solves problems. It’s hygienic, reflective, low-maintenance, and versatile. Whether it’s a compact kitchen in a city unit or an open-plan entertainer’s space, glass fits.
Why glass splashbacks are becoming more common
It’s not about trends. It’s about what works day in, day out.
People are cooking more at home. Life’s busy. Nobody wants to spend their weekend scrubbing grout lines or replacing discoloured tiles. With glass, you’re getting a surface that’s simple to clean and tough enough to hold up.
Here’s what makes them stand out:
- No grout – One smooth surface, no mould build-up
- More light – Reflective surfaces make small kitchens feel bigger
- Custom options – Colours, prints, and even mirrored finishes
- Durable – Tempered glass holds up under heat and moisture
- Quick install – Once measured, it goes up with minimal mess
And because glass is adaptable, you’re not stuck with standard choices. You can tailor the design to suit the rest of your space — whether it’s bold, neutral, or something in between.
Where splashbacks fit in the reno process
A lot of people think about splashbacks right at the end. Cabinets are in, benchtop sorted, and suddenly it’s like — oh, what are we doing with the wall? That’s where glass can actually save you some hassle.
As part of broader renovations and additions, glass splashbacks slide into place without needing much structural change. They’re cut to size, pre-finished, and once installed, it’s done.
Before choosing one, it’s worth thinking about:
- Wall length — can you go seamless?
- Cooktop clearance — is there space for a heat buffer?
- Powerpoint placement — plan those cut-outs early
- Light reflection — how will natural or LED lighting hit the glass?
Planning ahead helps make sure your glass choice feels integrated, not an afterthought.
Glass vs tiles: is one better?
It depends on what you value. Tiles have a handmade charm. Glass is about minimalism and ease.
Here’s how they stack up:
- Cleaning: Tiles mean grout. Glass doesn’t.
- Seamless finish: You can get large, uninterrupted panels with glass.
- Style: Tiles bring texture; glass brings shine.
- Repairs: Tiles are patchable, but break more easily.
- Cost: Mid-range tiles and custom glass can be similar in price. It depends on finishes and installation.
So no, glass isn’t better across the board. But it’s better for people who want fast cleanups, clean lines, and a more modern finish.
What’s trending with splashback design?
People are experimenting more than they used to. There’s confidence now in going beyond the standard white-on-white or black glass.
Current ideas popping up:
- Matte finishes – Less shine, more understated
- Digital prints – Think marble, botanicals, or even metallic effects
- Colour-matched tones – Coordinated with cabinetry or walls
- Mirror-back panels – Ideal for small or dark kitchens
- Floor-to-ceiling splashbacks – Especially around full cooktop walls
And it’s not just homeowners doing it. Interior designers, property developers — they’re using glass as a focal point, not just a background material.
If you scroll through recent kitchen upgrade ideas, you'll see how often glass shows up as part of that sleek, low-fuss look that’s become so popular.
When glass really makes sense
There are homes where glass isn’t just a design pick — it’s practical.
Examples:
- Small kitchens – Reflective glass opens up tight spaces
- Busy households – Less cleaning, no worrying about grime
- Rental homes – Easy upkeep between tenants
- Pet- or kid-filled homes – Fewer breakages and smears are easier to wipe
- High humidity zones – Around sinks or dishwashers, it just works
If you’re dealing with heat, water, or just everyday mess, glass holds its ground better than most.
Does it add value?
Not directly — not like an extra room or solar panels — but it contributes. When buyers walk into a kitchen and see a clean, modern splashback with no cracks or stains, that leaves an impression; it suggests the place is well looked after. It makes the kitchen feel more finished.
So while it might not push your valuation up dramatically, it can sway someone who’s on the fence.
Installing a glass splashback: what actually happens?
It’s not like tiling, where there’s dust and grout everywhere. With glass, it’s mostly prepped off-site.
The usual process:
- Measure up – Professionals take precise templates of your wall and fittings
- Cut and toughen – The glass is trimmed to size and heat-treated for safety
- Paint or print applied – Designs or colours are added to the reverse side
- Install – It’s glued to the wall and sealed with silicone
- Done – No drying time like grout. You’re ready to go
In most cases, it’s a one-day job, assuming the surface is already prepped.
Maintenance and health
This one’s simple: glass doesn’t trap bacteria. No grooves, no cracks, no weird textures. One wipe and you’re sorted. That’s especially useful in kitchens where hygiene’s non-negotiable — think shared households, allergy concerns, or families with young kids.
And if something does get on it — oil splatter, steam residue, tomato sauce — it won’t stain like unsealed tiles or cheap laminates.
Final thoughts
Tiles had their time, and in some homes, they still shine. But for most modern Australian households, glass just makes sense. It’s quick to clean, modern in look, and blends well into different kitchen styles — minimalist, industrial, even traditional when paired right.
And for renovators, it’s one of those materials that solves multiple problems at once. It lifts the visual feel of the room, it simplifies upkeep, and it’s flexible enough to suit tight or awkward layouts.
No, it’s not the cheapest option upfront. But it’s an investment in the kind of space you’ll actually enjoy using.
