Introduction
Installing a glass tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom can be a great way to add visual interest and drama. The reflective quality of glass tile gives it an eye-catching shine, while the variety of colors, shapes, and sizes available means you can easily find something to suit your personal style. Glass tile is also durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, making it very practical. With the right planning and materials, installing a glass tile backsplash is a DIY project that can transform the look of your space. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to install a beautiful glass tile backsplash in your home.
Getting Started with a Glass Tile Backsplash Project
Choose the Right Glass Tiles
Glass tile comes in an endless array of colors, sizes, and shapes. Subway tile, mosaic tile, and large format tile are some of the most popular options. Consider the overall look you want to achieve. Neutral colors like white, beige or grey have a modern, sleek look. Bold or iridescent glass tiles make more of a statement. Mixing glass tile shapes and sizes can create a more dynamic pattern. Make sure to buy a little extra – about 10% above your measured area.
Calculate How Much Tile You Need
To determine the square footage you’ll need to cover, simply multiply the height of your backsplash area by the width. This will give you the total square footage. Multiply this number by 1.1 to give you 10% extra for cutting tiles and breakage. If installing mosaic tile sheets, calculate the number of sheets needed. Plan your layout to minimize cuts and waste.
Choose the Right Backsplash Base
Glass tile should be installed on a cement backerboard, not regular drywall which can deteriorate from moisture. Water-resistant cement backerboards like Durock or HardieBacker are ideal bases. The smooth, sturdy surface gives the thinset mortar something to adhere to. Your backsplash base must be firmly secured to wall studs.
Gather the Necessary Materials
In addition to your selected glass tile and cement backerboard, you’ll need:
- Thinset mortar adhesive
- Grout
- Notched trowel
- Sealant
- Mixing bucket
- Tile spacers
- Tile cutter
- grout sponge
- Grout sealer
Make sure you have all necessary safety gear – gloves, dust mask, safety glasses, ear protection, knee pads. Have the right tools for the job.
Prepare the Surface
Proper prep work is crucial for successful tile installation. The surface must be cleaned and smoothed prior to tiling. Remove any old backsplash material or wall coverings. Fill any holes or gaps with sealant. Vacuum the surface. Wipe it down with a damp sponge to remove dust. Apply painter’s tape around the edges where the backsplash meets counter tops or walls. Apply primer if needed. Let it fully dry. Use a level to ensure your cement board is even.
How to Install the Glass Tile Backsplash
Follow these step-by-step instructions for properly installing a glass tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom from start to finish.
Step 1: Cut the Cement Backerboard Panels
Measure the backsplash installation area and cut cement backerboard panels to size. Cut holes for outlets or any fixtures. Use a straightedge and utility knife to score and snap boards.
Step 2: Attach Backerboard to Wall
Place the backerboard panels over mounting surface and check for proper fit. Secure panels with cement board screws into the wall studs, using screwguns or drills. Space screws 8 inches apart across the panels. Don’t rely solely on adhesive.
Step 3: Tape Seams
Run alkaline resistant mesh tape over all seams between backerboard panels. Apply thinset mortar with a trowel over the tape to embed it. This seals seams and covers screw heads. Let dry completely.
Step 4: Apply Primer
Use a paintbrush to apply a coat of primer to cement board surface. This helps bonding strength. Allow primer to fully dry on the backsplash.
Step 5: Plan Tile Layout
Map out your backsplash tile design with centered focal points. Dry lay tiles if desired before final placement. For mosaic sheets, cut borders as needed to fit edges. Mix tiles from different boxes.
Step 6: Mix Thinset Mortar
Combine thinset mortar powder with water in a bucket based on package directions. Use a power mixer if available. Let it slake for 10 minutes. Adjust consistency if needed. Remix before use. Only mix small batches that can be used in 30 minutes.
Step 7: Spread Thinset on Backsplash
Use a notched edge trowel held at 45 degree angle to spread a thin layer of thinset adhesive on the backsplash area, about 1⁄2 inch depth. Apply only enough thinset that can be tiled within 20 minutes.
Step 8: Place Tiles on Wall
Following your planned tile design, gently press tiles into the adhesive one by one. Use spacers between tiles to ensure even alignment and grout line width. Don’t slide tiles through thinset as it can push adhesive away. Periodically check for level placement.
Step 9: Cut Edge and Fixture Opening Tiles
Measure and mark glass tiles needing cuts around edges or openings. Cut tiles with a wet saw or tile cutter. Grind cut edges smooth with rubbing stone. Fit cut tiles into position. Wipe away any thinset squeezed up between tiles.
Step 10: Apply Grout
After tile adhesive dries for 24-48 hours, mix grout following package directions. Apply grout across the tile with a rubber grout float, packing it deep into joints. Hold float at a 45 degree angle and scrape off excess. Sponge and rinse clean after 15 minutes. Allow to dry 72 hours.
Step 11: Seal and Finish
Use a foam brush to apply grout sealer to protect from moisture and stains. Remove any remaining painter’s tape at edges. Caulk along top edges with flexible sealant. Admire your newly installed glass tile backsplash!
Glass Tile Backsplash Maintenance
To keep your glass tile backsplash looking fabulous, follow these care and maintenance tips:
- Use a pH neutral cleaner for regular cleaning to prevent buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Reseal grout yearly to protect from moisture and staining.
- Inspect for any cracked, loose or missing tiles. Remove and reinstall them as soon as possible.
- Take extra care to avoid nicking or scratching the surface when cleaning.
- Immediately wipe up any water splashes, oils or food materials to prevent difficult stains.
- Use heat and stain protection if installing behind stoves or ovens.
- Avoid hanging heavy items directly on backsplash tile.
With proper care, your glass tile backsplash will maintain its eye-catching beauty for years to come. Taking time to regularly clean and reseal it will keep it looking like new.
FAQs About Installing a Glass Tile Backsplash
What’s the best grout to use with glass tile?
Sanded grout is best for glass tile with joints 1/8 inch or larger. It provides a stronger fill. Unsanded grout works for smaller mosaic tiles. Choose a polymer-modified grout.
How do you cut glass mosaic tile?
The best tool for cutting glass mosaic tiles is a wet saw with a diamond blade. For small cuts, a rod cutter or nippers can also be used. Never dry cut glass tiles as this can cause cracking and splintering.
Should glass tile backsplash go all the way to ceiling?
It’s recommended to install a full height backsplash when using glass tile. This gives a complete finished look. If terminating below the ceiling, use trim or bullnose tiles at the top edge.
What color grout looks best with glass subway tile?
White and very light grey grouts help glass subway tiles stand out. Darker grout provides contrast against light colored tiles. Match or complement the tile color.
Should you seal glass tile before or after grouting?
Sealing should come after grouting. This prevents the grout from being sealed into the tile. Be sure to wipe down excess grout before it dries completely. Allow 72 hours of curing before applying sealer.
Can you use glass tiles on shower walls?
Yes, glass tile is water-resistant and durable making it suitable for steam shower walls. Make sure the walls have proper waterproofing underneath. Use white thinset and grout to resist mold growth. Apply grout sealer.
Conclusion
Installing a glass tile backsplash requires careful planning, preparation, and patience, but it is a very achievable DIY project for most homeowners. Follow the steps and tips outlined here for a long-lasting, beautiful addition of glass tile to your kitchen or bath. With so many options, you can let your personal style shine through. Once in place, a glass tile backsplash provides a radiant focal point and elegant functionality. Just be sure to properly care for and maintain it to keep your new backsplash looking flawless.