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Glass tiles look fantastic. The kitchen and bathroom interiors share incredibly elegant glass tile backsplashes. Two questions immediately hit your mind: Why should you install the glass tile backsplash? How to install glass tile backsplash? Choosing a glass tile backsplash for the kitchen or the bathroom will not make you regret it. The vibrant look of glass tiles does wonders to create a mesmerizing view. The amusing qualities of glass tiles win the favor of designers and homeowners. Secondly, durability makes glass tiles a praiseworthy choice. The contemporary, chic appearance of the glass tile backsplash is perfect for devising a modern interior design. The reflected light beams of glass tiles fabricate a stunning focal point. Lastly, the glass tile backsplash is easy to maintain. You can enjoy its beautiful glow by applying simple maintenance tips.Â
You would love to install glass tiles as a DIY project. However, glass tiles need precision in the installation process. Glass tiles have a slippery surface and a fragile texture. You need to be careful in making the installation process mess-free. The use of specific tools with the application of proper guidelines makes the installation of glass tile backsplash easy.Â
Here, you will have detailed information about why you must choose a glass tile backsplash for an awesome view and how to install glass tile backsplash. The ultimate step-by-step guide will enable you to install glass tile backsplash easily and perfectly:
Why Choose Glass Tile?
Glass tile shares a unique pattern with a fantastic look. There are many reasons why you must choose glass tile. Glass tile backsplash gives a stylish look to an interior. The lovely reflection of lights makes the environment feel like a fairy-tale room. Despite its astounding appearance, some other reasons are here to win your favor:
Incredibly Water-Resistant
Glass tiles share a non-porous texture. The surface of glass tiles does not absorb moisture. Its absorption, in contrast with other tiles, is zero percent, which makes glass tiles the perfect choice for a backsplash. The water-resistant quality makes glass tiles easy to maintain. You find satisfaction that glass tiles will share their sleek shine longer. The lower probability of damage due to moisture makes the glass tile backsplash glow beautifully.Â
Glass Tiles Are Easy To Clean
Glass tiles are the best option for bathroom backsplash as they are easy to clean. The tiles offer a smooth surface with zero moisture-absorbing possibility. The moisture-resistant capability makes it pristine. You will hardly have any slight spots of water that are easy to clean by applying simple cleaning tips. The glass tiles need a soft damp sponge and mild cleanser to look fresh longer.
The kitchen backsplash must be cleaned easily. Glass tiles resist heat and grease. The grease makes the kitchen backsplash look tainted. You can wipe off grease without any extra effort. The effortless cleaning of glass tile backsplash makes the kitchen hygienic.
Glass Tiles Are Sustainable
Glass tiles share a sustainable texture. The eco-friendly materials used in the making of glass tiles are recycled. Plastic bottles, mirrors, and discarded glass window panes are used to make glass tiles. The good thing is that glass tiles are also 100% recyclable. Glass tiles offer an energy server production. They need less energy in their making process than other tiles.
Glass Tiles Share a Fantastic Aesthetic Charm
Glass tiles give an aesthetically attractive look. The beautiful glowing surface of a glass tile makes the backsplash look lavish and unique. Glass tile backsplash enriches contemporary interior themes. You can devise vibrant glass tile backsplash to add energetic vibes to a minimalist interior. The reflection of light shares a fantastic and stunning glow.Â
Glass tiles are in numerous colors, shapes, and sizes. You can opt for one that best suits your interior style. The glazy glow of glass tiles makes the interior look brighter and sophisticated.Â
Install Glass Tiles As a DIY Project
Glass tiles are easy to install as a DIY project if you take guidelines seriously. Installation of glass tiles needs precision. You must take a step-by-step guide before starting the installation process. The guide below will give detailed information about what tools you would need in this process and how you should use these tools to achieve perfection. You would also have tips and tricks to make a DIY project easy and enjoyable. Let us initiate the viewing precautions before starting the installation process:
Safety Suggestions Before Starting the Installation Process
Your safety must be your priority. You must apply all the mentioned tips to get a safe installation journey:
First, power off all the electricity points on the wall where you intend to install glass tiles. The live electricity can make you meet unfortunate situations. An unexpected encounter with live electricity during the installation process may seriously harm you. Powering off the electricity on the wall will ensure your precious safety.Â
Second, ensure you have safety gadgets for your protection. You must have glasses to protect your eyes from tile particles and dust or grout. The gloves protect your hands during cutting and fixing glass tiles.Â
Third, proper ventilation is a must-have to avoid suffocation in the room. You must open all the windows in the room or ensure the presence of an exhaust fan to throw out all the dust.Â
All safety tips are necessary to follow to avoid any miserable accident. Now, here is a detailed description of the tools and materials you may need to install glass tile backsplash:
Tools and Materials Needed
The installation of glass tile backsplash needs certain tools and materials. You can do installation flawlessly by using these tools and materials:
Glass Tile Mosaic Sheets
Glass tile mosaic sheets are significant in making the installation process flawless. The astounding sheets are most helpful in DIY Installation. Glass tiles are fixed with glue on the mesh backing. You just need to measure the area and fix the sheet in your desired place. Glass tile mosaic sheets are available in various sizes, finishes, shapes, colors, and patterns. You may customize this sheeting by cutting it to fit in corners.
Premixed thinset mortar
Pre-mixed thinset Mortar is an adhesive between the wall and glass tiles. The material binds glass tiles with the wall strongly. The proper application of the thinnest Mortar guarantees a durable backsplash. Pre-mixed thinset Mortar is specially made for glass tiles. The notched trowel helps in an appropriate application. The most important is that the mortar should have an even consistency. It should neither be too thick nor too thin. You need to spread the mortar evenly on the area without leaving space. Ensure less probability of bubbles to avoid timely loosening of tiles. The key point is that the mortar quantity to be applied must not be too low or too excessive. The thin set mortar takes time to dry. Let it dry and set for the required time as mentioned by manufacturers.
Tile Spacers
Tile spacers make your backsplash look uniform and well-composed. Tile spacers help you get accurate and even space between all tiles. The tools make tiles constantly spaced. You would have a pre-planned measurement for tile spaces according to your required interior layout. Wider grout lines appear dramatic and rustic, while narrower ones create a neat, minimalist view. Tile spacers are available in numerous sizes. You can opt for customized spacers, too.Â
Grout
Grout is filled in spaces between tiles. Grout lines share a practical charm. It makes a barrier between tiles and moisture. Grout bears all dust and moisture and prevents the tile from being damaged or moist. Grout is available in various colors and finishes. You can opt for sanded or unsanded according to your intended interior style. You can use grout after mixing it with water according to the instructions.Â
Grout Sealer
Grout sealers are necessary to apply at least 24 hours after grout is applied. The grout sealers are liquids that help grout not to be damaged by moisture, dust, and grease.Â
Here are some necessary tools you would need during the glass tile installations:
Tape Measure
Tape measure helps in getting accurate measurements of the intended area.Â
Level
The level helps you to maintain an even level of all tiles.
Pencil
A pencil helps in marking lines according to the measurements on sheets and tiles.Â
Tile Cutter or Wet Saw
It is used to cut tiles and sheets to fit properly in your intended area and corners.Â
Putty Knife
A putty knife helps in spreading an even layer of thinset mortar.
Notched Trowel
A notched trowel is necessary to form grooves in thinset mortar for an enhanced binding between the wall and tiles.Â
Hammer
Hammer helps in fixing tiles on their place by tapping.Â
Rubber Grout Float
It is used to apply and press the grout evenly in tile gaps.Â
Sponge
The sponge is used to wipe off excess grout from tiles immediately.
Step 1: Prepare the Wall Surface
You need to do the wall surface preparation properly before starting the installation process. The surface prep of the wall includes these steps:
First, clean the wall thoroughly. You can use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe off dust and grease. Mild cleaners are better to use in case of excessive dirt and grease. Ensure the wall is fully dry before taking the next step.Â
Second, you must remove all switch plates and covers. The plates and covers will help you take measurements for cutting sheets and tiles. Further, switch plates and covers get stains during tile installation.Â
Third, ensure you have covered countertops with sheets or newspapers. The sheets and newspapers build a barrier between the installation mess and the countertops. Further, tape the newspapers and sheets properly to ensure full coverage.
Fourth, you need to improve the condition of the intended wall before starting installation. Ensure filling gaps to make the surface even. Spot and uneven surfaces can be treated by sanding until they have a smooth surface. The defect, such as gaps, needs to be filled with wall compounds. Let the compound dry fully before moving to the next step. Then, you must sand this area to get the plain surface. The installation of a backer board can also help you in this regard. An even and strong surface is necessary to make a strong bond between the wall and the tiles.Â
Fifth, you need to mark the intended area with a pencil. Tape is necessary to get exact measurements before marking. Mark the central point on the wall and then use a laser level to draw a horizontal line across the wall on that point. It will help you install the perfectly aligned tiles.Â
Step 2: Planning and Measuring
You need to plan each step in detail before starting the installation. Proper planning prevents uncertainties and mess. Accurate measurements play a significant role in the perfect installation. Here are steps for fruitful planning and useful measurement:
First, pick out one design for the backsplash design. The design must have a certain layout. You can opt for herringbone, chevron, or grid patterns. You can sketch the layout before installation to have a view of how it would look.Â
Second, take accurate measurements of the intended wall. The backsplash looks attractive if installed cohesively and perfectly. You need to measure length and width precisely. After taking the measurement, multiply the length by width. This equation will give you an exact measurement of your backsplash wall. For instance, the wall is 10 feet long and 2 feet wide. Then, multiply ten by two, and it will be twenty. The square footage will be 20 square feet.Â
Third, you need to multiply the backsplash square measurement by 1.1. The obtained value is the amount of your required tiles for the intended wall. You must keep 10% extra while purchasing tiles to allow cutting and waste consumption. As in the previous example, the obtained square footage is 20 square feet. Multiply 20 by 1.1, and it is 22 square feet. Finally, you need 22 square feet of tiles for the backsplash wall.Â
Fourth, you need to take the exact central point of the intended area. A tape and pencil help you mark necessary points for precise measurement. A laser level will make your measurements aligned cohesively. You can use a drywall knife to mark a notch at the end of every design line. Marking grid lines can make the layout neatly sketched.
In the fifth step, you must measure all switch plates and outlet covers. The precise measurement will help you cut tiles to fit with switch plates and covers. If you notice a weird gap between tiles and switch plates, you can use outlet extenders to fill the gap.
All the steps mentioned above must be followed for flawless installation and precise measurements of the required space.Â
Step 3: Backer Board Installation
After planning and measuring, you move to the Backer board installation step.Â
The Backer board is made of cement. The board resists moisture. The Backer board is used as a plain and flawless foundation for glass tile installations. The backer board is not a complimentary part of the glass tile installation. You can skip it if your backsplash wall is already smooth without any amenable defects. The Backer board serves best for a durable and stable backsplash base.Â
Here are the suggested steps for installing a backer board:
First, you must cut the beaker board according to the exact size of the required space. A utility knife or a circular saw can serve best for the perfect cutting. You must take safety measures such as wearing gloves on your hands and goggles on your eyes to avoid any unfortunate situation.Â
Second, you can apply thinset mortar now. You must evenly spread mortar to the measured space. It would be good to use the notch trowel for creating grooves. Thinset mortar is the perfect unifying material to bind the backer board with strong adhesion to the wall.
Third, you need to paste the Backer board on the wall. Make sure to press it and place all edges at the right points. You must use a level to confirm the perfect alignment. It is necessary to give a gap of 1/8 inch between the backer board and the counter.Â
Fourth, the backer board must be secured to the wall by using screws and nails. Ensure the use of nails suitable for cement boards. Ensure a space of 6 inches between screws along the edges and 8 inches apart in the center.
Fifth, you should surround all the gaps with fiberglass mash tapes. Seal the tape smoothly, leaving no bubbles and wrinkles behind.Â
Sixth, another application of thinset mortar over the tape must be put. You can use a putty knife. The mortar layer must be dried before installing glass tiles.Â
Step 4: Laying out Tiles
As soon as the Backer board is installed properly, it is time to lay out tiles on it. Laying out tiles demands precision on your part. The backsplash will appear amazing and perfect if the tiles are aligned perfectly.Â
Here are suggested steps for laying out tiles:
Take a start from the center of the intended backsplash area. Take a measuring tape and a pencil to have accurate measurements from the central point. The laser level will help you draw horizontal lines across the wall. The step is necessary to have a perfectly aligned tile installation.
Next, you can dry-fit glass tile mosaic sheets. The direction of fixing sheets must be from the center to the outward. You must ensure that small tiles do not make the edges look messy. The accurate alignment depends on the constant spaces between tile sheets. Spacers help to give equal gaps between tile sheets. Ensure tiles or tile sheets must be cut exactly according to measurements. Â
Then, sketch the points on tiles and sheets according to the measurements of switch plates, windows, or any other hurdle on the backsplash wall. You can use a wet saw or tile cutter for cutting tiles. You must be careful about chipping and cracking because glass tiles are flimsy.Â
Lastly, you need to remove tiles and sheets from the wall. Then, paste tiles on the obvious points. It would be better to give numbers to each tile for a well-ordered tile installation without any clutter.
Step 5: Cutting the Tiles
You must cut tiles to fit in corners, switch plates, and electrical outlets at this step. Tile cutting is a significant step in the installation process. You must keep an eye on instructions while cutting. Here are the steps for cutting glass tiles:
First, you must have the necessary safety wear. Gloves protect your hands from any injury during cutting. Goggles are necessary to avoid dust and tile particles.
Second, cutting tile is an art that needs accuracy. You should choose tools carefully. You must have a thorough understanding of which tools would serve best to cut which size and shape of glass tiles. Different sizes and shapes need different cutting tools. Nippers and scoring tools accurately cut small tiles with irregular cutting requirements. A Wet Saw is best to cut large tiles with straight lines.Â
Third, you must sketch marks before the tile cutting. Pencil and straightedge are good options to measure accurately and mark the lines on tiles for the perfect tile trim.Â
Fourth is the most important step of cutting a tile. You must cut the tile by following the pre-drawn marks. You must grasp the tile firmly and put pressure on the line in case you are using nippers and scoring tools. You need to put consistent pressure until the tile breaks. Pressure is not required while using a wet saw for the tile cutting. You need just place the tile line along the saw blade and slowly move the tile. Both types of cutting tools require careful usage to avoid chipping and cracking.
Lastly, smooth the uneven tile edges by sanding or using a diamond file. Uneven or sharp tile edges look weird. The rough edges can hurt your hands and may scratch walls.Â
Step 6: Applying the Adhesive and Set the Tiles
Once you have completed laying out the tiles and installing the Backer board, you move toward the application of the adhesive. The adhesive is used to unify tiles to the wall strongly. It would be good to access a professional to have suggestions about the perfect adhesive for glass tiles. A high-quality adhesive ensures a durable backsplash. The type of the backsplash wall is also important in choosing an adhesive. You must choose the adhesive that suits the surface of the wall, whether it is a backer board, drywall, or another surface. Here are the mentioned steps for the proper application of an adhesive:
The first step is to read the instructions carefully on the package. Mix the adhesive with water. Ensure a creamy consistency of the mixture. The mixture must be without hard pieces of unmixed adhesive. Leave the mixture for some time, and then beat it again to get a smooth paste.Â
Next, spread the adhesive using a notched trowel. Make constant use of the notch to attain equal grooves. You must start from the center and move outward when applying adhesive. Ensure the spread of an even layer throughout the area.Â
Now the surface is ready, place the tiles one by one into the adhesives. The tiles must be placed on constant gaps by using spacers. Ensure a uniform alignment of tiles.Â
Start placing tiles from the center point, and keep in view the perfect alignment. Your lines intersect if you align tiles cohesively.Â
Keep level or straightedge near you to check whether all tiles are at the same level. The occasional level inspection will ensure the maintenance of the same level for all tiles. You must adjust any uneven level at the moment. Any delay will lead to chipping or cracking a glass tile in the adjusting process.Â
You must wipe off excessive adhesive immediately. The adhesive can harm the tile surface if it dries on it. A damp cloth or sponge helps best in this regard.Â
Complete tile placing by applying adhesive to a small section first. Then, revise it by applying adhesive and placing tiles. Finish the process by doing it in one section rather than another.
Let the adhesive dry for at least 24 hours or as per the instructions of the manufacturer. The rest is necessary for the adhesive to make it durable and stable with tiles.Â
Step 7: Grouting
Grouting ensures a safe surface for tiles. Grout lines make tiles appear well-composed. Grouting is the last step in installing a tile backsplash. Here are the steps for the proper application of grout:
Grout choice matters a lot for an attractive overall look of a tile backsplash. You must choose an un-sanded grout for glass tiles. Glass tiles are fragile; they may suffer scratching and chipping if you use sanded grout.Â
Next, mix grout with water. Ensure a peanut butter-like consistency of the mixture. Follow the instructions given on the package when mixing water. Let the mixture rest for some minutes, and then remix it without adding more water.Â
Now, move toward applying the grout. Grout float or rubber float to spread grout evenly in all gaps between tiles. Press grout in gaps to avoid bubbles and empty spaces.
Keep floating at a slight angle. It will help place grout in the space and not allow it to spread out of gaps. You would do better work in small sections to complete the task without mess. 2 to 3 square feet are enough to work with at one time.
The excessive grout must be wiped off immediately. It can leave stains on the surface of a tile if it gets dry there. You can use a float to remove excessive grout by wiping it at a 45-degree angle.
It is necessary to clean the surface of a tile with a damp cloth or sponge after applying grout. Let the grout stay 14 to 15 minutes before wiping it off. Ensure to avoid excessive use of water as it can harm the consistency of grout.Â
Your tiles are ready to use after 48 hours of applying grout. Now, clean them thoroughly with a dry, soft cloth.Â
Proper application of grout is necessary to form an attractive and aesthetically charming tile backsplash.
Step 8: Sealing
Sealing ensures that grout stays beautiful and clean for a long time. You can enjoy the awesome appearance of a glass tile backsplash longer. Sealing promotes a stunning shine. Here are suggestions to apply sealing flawlessly:
You must let the grout fully dry before applying the sealing. It would be good to let the grout repose for 24 to 72 hours. Make sure you will thoroughly read the instructions on the package.
You can find various types of sealing. You must opt for a sealing that is apt for the type of grout, like sanded or unsanded. A high-quality sealing attains perfect results.
First, organize the backsplash wall for the application of the sealing. A clean surface is necessary. Wipe off all the dust and dirt. Grout lines need to be cleaned and dried properly before the application of sealing.
Now, you can apply the sealing. The use of a soft, small brush, foam brush, or applicator pad helps in making the sealing process perfect. An even quantity is necessarily passed on all over grout lines. Prevent the sealing from drying on glass tiles.Â
It is necessary to let the sealing stay for 5 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, grout absorbs sealing thoroughly.Â
Ensure to use a dry cloth, towel, or paper towel to wipe off unnecessary sealing from the tiles.
It is suggested to apply more than one coat. You must follow the instructions of the manufacturers in this regard. The number of coats depends on the type of sealing, too.Â
All the above-mentioned steps play a significant role in attaining a stunning tile backsplash, from preparing the wall surface to the final sealing. Every step has its importance and must be completed precisely to get the required results. A successful completion of the DIY installation of a glass tile backsplash makes a uniform and astounding appearance.
FAQS
How to Choose Grout Color for Glass Tile Backsplash?
A color scheme may promote an attractive fantasy or may make the backsplash dull. A grout color plays an important role in making a backsplash stand out. Two popular color schemes match color themes and contrastive color themes. Both share their incredible, awesome looks. Matching color grout with the backsplash creates a neat, cohesive look. Light-colored tones are good to add majestic charm to your interior. Glass tiles offer a stunning glazy appearance in lighter tones. The colors of glass tiles, in contrast with grout colors, are good to add a dramatic charisma. The interior, with the contrastive color theme, offers contemporary vibes.
How to Handle Corners and Outlets for the Glass Tile Backsplash?
It is easy to handle corners and outlets for the glass tile backsplash. Tile trimming can help best in this regard. You need to follow some easy steps. First, take accurate measurements of corners and outlets. Then, precisely cut tiles according to the size of outlets and corners. Now, you need to switch off the electricity supply. It is necessary to avoid any unfortunate accident. Apply adhesive to stick tiles with the backsplash wall. In case of weird gaps between tiles and switch plates, you can use outlet extenders. Paste tiles on adhesive accurately for a unified look. Â
How to Keep Your Glass Tile Backsplash Looking New?
You must follow a regular cleaning routine to keep your glass tile backsplash looking new. Mild cleaners can do the cleaning job very well. You must avoid scrubbing glass tiles with a hard cloth or sponge. It may scratch glass tiles. Using a soft cloth or sponge would be a good option. Wipe off the cleaner with water after gentle scrubbing. The glass tile backsplash will glow longer if you wipe off grease stains at the moment. Harsh chemical cleaners must be avoided. Further, be careful when using sharp objects. It may cause cracking and chipping of delicate glass tiles.
Is Backsplash Harder to Install?
It is not hard to install a glass tile backsplash. You must follow the instructions of manufacturers and professional installers to do it perfectly. Glass tiles are more fragile than other tiles. You must ensure to avoid chipping and cracking glass tiles during the DIY installation project. The right choice of adhesive can help you better in devising a durable backsplash. The formation of a smooth base or installation of a backer board will provide a plain surface for installing a well-composed backsplash. Next, the precise tile cutting is important. You must use cutting tools carefully. Precise alignment helps in fixing tiles on the required area cohesively. Proper sealing will ensure the utmost durability of the glass tile backsplash.
How Do You Finish the Edges of a Glass Tile Backsplash?
Finishing the edges of a glass tile backsplash requires specific tile types. Trim tiles make your glass tile backsplash look awesome and stunning. Here are some popular tile trims for backsplash edges:
Bullnose tiles share a classical vibe. The round edges of bullnose tiles are specifically designed to create a seamless, cohesive appearance.
Metal trim is another option to finish the edges of a glass tile backsplash wonderfully. Metal trims include stainless steel and aluminum. The metal tiles protect the flat edges from chipping and cracking. The shining metal trims make glass mosaic tiles look astonishing.
Beautiful and neat grout finishes the edges of a glass tile backsplash fantastically. The grout color must make a cohesive connection with the whole interior color scheme. You must use high-quality sealing to ensure durable and gorgeous grout on the flat edge longer.
All trim tiles look fabulous if matched accurately with the interior design. You must keep an eye on all details of your interior layout while opting for a tile trim.
