Laminate splashback and hob regulation

[duckegg]

Hi

I'm not sure if tiling is the right area for this question but here goes...

I'm just about to finish fitting my laminate splashback in the kitchen and have just read in the small print on a b&q catalouge today that it has to have a 150mm clearance from the hob / heat sources, otherwise a glass splashback is required on top.

Can anyone tell me the reson for this and if it's regulation or just best practise?

Thanks

 

[gcol]

If you put a pan on the back gas hob, the heat/flame runs under and up the edge of the pan. This could realistically be less than 2" away from the wall/splashback. It's not designed to take that sort of heat - which is why they recommend protection.

 

[duckegg]

Thanks gcol, that makes sense!

Just out of interest whats peoples opinons on this not being advised about this by the designer at any point?

 

[gcol]

I'd be asking questions as to why he/she didn't recommend a more suitable material for behind a hob i.e. tile or stainless sheet.