13. Backsplashes & Upstands

Various options are available for backsplashes (upstands), each with distinct designs and associated manufacturing costs. The chosen design can be fabricated using different manufacturing processes, depending on the selected method. This section outlines the minimum standard procedure required to achieve stable quality in backsplash fabrication.

1. Consideration For Design And Fabrication

Backsplashes offer a range of design options, serving both decorative and functional purposes in HIMACS installations. It is essential to select the correct fabrication method, as improper techniques can result in failures such as cracking due to stress concentration. Inappropriate fabrication may also lead to increased stress within the material.

Properly fabricated backsplashes contribute to the overall strength and durability of the HIMACS assembly. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the design and fabrication methods are appropriately matched to maximise longevity.

Certain backsplash designs are better suited to specific colours, particularly those featuring veining, pearl or glitter effects, large chips, or a translucent appearance. The fabrication methods described as example in this section are generally recommended for solid colours and granite colours with small to medium chips.

2. Fabricating Backsplashes

Standard Backsplash Installation

The standard backsplash consists of a HI-MACS strip, trimmed with a radius of 3 to 6 mm and fixed in place using an acrylic-based silicone adhesive. Rebating the underside of the backsplash enhances the durability of the silicone seal.

Procedure:

1. Verify the installed worktop and measure accurately to determine the required size for the backsplash.

2. Inspect and remove any obstructions from the wall and worktop surfaces.

3. Fabricate the backsplash to the correct dimensions. Rebate the underside to allow for stable application of silicone, and form a rounded edge.

4. Clean the edges of both the backsplash and the worktop to be joined, using denatured alcohol.

5. Prepare a colour-matched, mould-resistant silicone and apply a continuous, wide bead along the entire seam area of the worktop.

6. Apply hot-melt adhesive to the rear of the backsplash at intervals of 300 mm.

7. Position the backsplash accurately.

8. Apply silicone to the joint between the worktop and the backsplash.

9. Apply silicone to the joint between the backsplash and the wall.

10. Remove any excess sealant.

Standard Backsplash Installation

To prevent the accumulation of moisture or bacteria, a curved backsplash is recommended as the most effective solution, particularly in wet areas such as sinks or vanity units. This design also facilitates easy cleaning in a variety of other applications.

Procedure:

1. Fabricate a curved strip with an 8 mm radius at the edge and a width of 20 mm.

2. Cut a backsplash piece to a width of 32 mm and form a rounded edge.

3. Create a rebate on the rear of the worktop, measuring 20 mm in width and 4 mm in depth.

4. Bond the curved strip and backsplash together. Once the adhesive has cured, sand the joint.

5. Insert the curved backsplash into the worktop and complete the installation by trimming and sanding as required.

Setting Up an Internal Corner

To configure an internal corner, begin by preparing a corner piece according to the selected radius – in this case, radius R8. For a backsplash with a height of 50 mm, fabricate a block measuring 20 mm × 20 mm × 62 mm. Using a specialised router, shape the internal radius, or alternatively, use a router bit to plunge after the block has been correctly positioned and adhered.

Joining the Corner Block with a Curved Backsplash

This corner block may be integrated with a curved backsplash in order to preserve the structural integrity and aesthetic advantages of the curved design.

V-Grooving for 12 mm HIMACS Sheets

V-grooving is a precision machining technique employed to facilitate the creation of curved joints in solid surface materials, particularly sheets with a thickness of 12 mm. This method involves routing a V-shaped channel along the rear surface of the sheet, allowing it to be bent smoothly without compromising structural integrity or surface finish.

The process is especially beneficial in large-scale fabrication environments, where efficiency and consistency are paramount. By enabling rapid and repeatable formation of curved profiles, V-grooving significantly reduces manual labour and assembly time compared to traditional thermoforming or segmented bending techniques.

However, successful implementation of V-grooving requires investment in specialised routing equipment capable of maintaining consistent depth and angle across the groove. Precision control is essential to avoid material failure or visible surface distortion. Operators must also ensure proper alignment and adhesive bonding during final assembly to maintain the mechanical strength and aesthetic quality of the curved joint.