How to Install a Glass Tile Kitchen Backsplash

Glass backsplash

Installing glass tile as a backsplash adds a characteristic to the overall style of the kitchen itself. After carefully selecting the style of the tile desired you will need to do some research on this type of backsplash. This will save some frustrations that could arise as you go through the process.

Things You'll Need

• Glass tile squares
• Glass tile caps
• Glass tile corners
• Glass tile cutter
• Glass tile snips
• Sandpaper
• Wax pencil
• Mastic
• Non sanded grout
• Sponge
• Bucket
• Soft cloths
• Mastic trowel
• Grout trowel
• Grout sealer

Instructions

Installation

1. Prepare the wall for the backsplash by cleaning it of all oils or dirt. While it dries take a measurement for the length and the height of the backsplash.

2. Lay out tile on a flat surface as it will go on the wall that it will be applied to. Mark the top row with the wax pencil where the tiles will meet the underside of the wall cabinets. Cut these tiles with the tile cutter and return them to their place.

3. Measure the area around the window over the sink (if applicable) and draw the cutout on the tiles that correspond. Also do this for any receptacles that are on the wall.

4. Spread the mastic smoothly onto the surface with the trowel and press the tiles into place making certain that the "spacers" on the tiles are adjacent to one another. This is the grout line.

5. Spread grout with grout trowel after the tile has set for 24 hours. Use a cross pattern to force grout into the grout lines. Sponge off excess with clean water ringing out sponge as needed. Polish the tile with a soft cloth when a haze forms over it.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety glasses

• Sand cut edges to remove jagged edge

• The use of a wet saw to cut the tile is recommended.

• Use caps and corners on all exposed edges as needed.

• Use caution when cutting corners around the windows and receptacles as this will compromise the integrity of the tile and may cause it to break.

• Allow the grout to cure for three days before sealing it.

• Use caution when handling the glass tiles as the cut edges may cut you.

Resources

• How to Tile a Kitchen Backsplash