On Nov 5, 6:56 am, Ken wrote:
Joe wrote:
On Nov 3, 9:43 am, Ken wrote:
I am contemplating the replacement of my counter tops and back splash
in my kitchen. One of the materials that appeals to me are the embossed
panels such as those athttp://www.mbossinc.com/backsplash.htmandhttp://www.homeportfolio.com......
Since there are several makers of these panels and some use metal and
others use a thermoplastic material, I thought I would ask if anyone had
used this material for a back splash and which material they used? Your
comments will be appreciated.

Those things are a major PITA to keep clean. Of course, if you only
want a show kitchen to impress your friends, use the metal ones by the
stove and thermoplastic ones anywhere you want to accent your other
treasures. Although no one wants their kitchen to look like a
commercial restaurant, keep in mind that some of these fads will not
wear well over the years, so try to balance trendiness with
practcality and good taste. HTH

Joe

Joe,

I take it you have this material installed in your home?

No, I didn't make that mistake.

Or are you relaying what others have said about it?

Yes, I visited home centers and talked to some of the specialists
about kitchen design.

Your recommendation that metal
be used near the stove, is that due to adverse effects of the
temperature near the stove?

Yes. Many range designs wirh self cleaning ovens and other features
can get quite warm after extended use, for example at Thanksgiving.

If you are not fond of this treatment for a back splash, what material
would you use instead? Thanks for your comments.

For my backsplash I had a sheet metal shop make one out of stainless
steel to fit precisely in the opening between cabinets. Metal was
first choice with a Durock backing and cemented in place with
silicone. The particuar stove vents to the rear and although the
Durock and metal are somewhat overkill. the whole deal with nice wood
trim looks quite elegant. A plastic backsplash would have discolored
and shrunk in the stove vent area...not pretty. Since a stainless
steel range hood was also part of the installation, the custom
appearance isn't compromised. Cleanup is a breeze, too, as doing stir
fry in a big stove top wok can get real messy.
Make your choice based on your best judgement. If it satisfies all
your criteria, just enjoy. If it later needs to be improved, it was a
lesson well learned and no regrets...that's life.

Joe