Prefinished plywood as backsplash

[FS7]

I used 1/2" prefinished plywood for the backs of the cabinets in this project. Those were 36", and two of the larger cabinets were 72" and 76" wide. This meant that I had odd-sized full-length (8') pieces that were about 12" wide. Not really being sure what I would do with those, as they're too small for shelves (though I'm sure I would have found a use eventually), I thought I could use them for the "backsplash" in the 5" space between the countertop and the bar top (presently being worked). I did not want to deal with tile in that space, as that would not match the "actual" backsplash (and I'm not rip cutting that much tile). So I measured and cut them down with the tracksaw, attached them using pocket holes drilled in the stud wall for the bar top, masked the countertop, and put down a bead of silicone.

It seems to be very easy for a backsplash, and given its solvent resistance and UV finish it would probably be very easy to clean and use as an actual kitchen backsplash. I imagine that's far too chintzy for most people, but I could certainly see its utility.

[fredhargis]

All I see in that pic is the absolutely gorgeous wood of the countertop. Seriously, it looks good....and that finish (prefinished ply) is pretty indestructible. Well done!

[brianwelch]

All I see in that pic is the absolutely gorgeous wood of the countertop. Seriously, it looks good....and that finish (prefinished ply) is pretty indestructible. Well done!

Yupp...What Fred said above...gorgeous!

[FS7]

Thanks. I like it too, but I'm biased because sapele is my favorite wood by far.

As I thought about it more, I realize that the cost per square foot isn't the best. At 1/2", I think I paid around $90 per sheet. So that's about $2.80 per square foot, and doesn't account for waste. No way to joint or anything like that. Hard to fasten. It is really *only* good for this type of application - long pieces that can be fastened from behind. I mean the wall tile was only about $1 per square foot. I know you need spacers, some work to cut and prep, adhesive, and so on, but it's not really an ideal solution compared to traditional backsplashes. I guess the $1 per square foot tile is an outlier (the self-checkout attendant at Home Depot thought it had rung up incorrectly, since the entire box was $16 and you can pay that per square foot for some tile).

[brianwelch]

In your case it is exceptionally affordable, being that it is waste from another project...Well done...

[kurt18947]

That area shouldn't see daily heavy use like a kitchen would so I think it'll be fine. You wouldn't want anything too involved or ornate to take the eye away from that absolutely gorgeous counter.

[Gabby]

That area shouldn't see daily heavy use like a kitchen would so I think it'll be fine. You wouldn't want anything too involved or ornate to take the eye away from that absolutely gorgeous counter.

That is a good use of excess material , will last a long time . What will you finish the top with ? Gary

[FS7]

The counter top was finished with multiple coats of Polyx gloss. The bar top will also be finished the same way.

[Stwood_]

Looks good to me. Should be durable if not used as a dart board.

[FrankAtl]

That's beautiful! Well done!