Kitchen and bathroom counters require wall protection from spills, splashes, and general wear. This protection typically takes the form of a vertical barrier installed on the wall directly behind the countertop. A variety of materials, including tile, stone, metal, and glass, can serve this purpose, each offering different aesthetic and practical advantages.
This protective barrier prevents damage to the wall surface from moisture, staining, and impact. It simplifies cleaning, as the smooth, non-porous surface of most barrier materials can be easily wiped down. Historically, such protection was often a simple, pragmatic feature. However, contemporary design trends have elevated the protective barrier from purely functional to a key design element, contributing significantly to the overall aesthetics of a room.