A glass tile backsplash can be used to protect walls from water damage in kitchens, bathrooms and laundries. Whether you are using glass tiles or porcelain tiles glass mosaic tiles or ceramic tiles for a kitchen backsplash tile or for a bathroom tile backsplash, the method for preparing the area and applying the tiles is the same. Mosaic glass tiles are harder to cut, so do not use them for the edging areas, they are better in the centre of a backsplash. Stone tiles are also used for backsplash and are also applied in the same way. Floor tiles, leftover from a project can also be used for a backsplash. Backsplashes are typically put behind a sink, bathtub or shower to prevent water from penetrating walls and paintwork. The following steps are a guide to fitting a glass tile backsplash.
Step 1: Determine A Layout
After purchasing the tiles for your glass tile backsplash you must dry fit them first, avoiding the need for cutting tiles to fit the edges. Photograph, or draw the layout so you can refer to it during the tile laying process. Try to avoid small slices of tiles as they are hard to fit neatly and can become chipped easily.
Step 2: Apply The Glass Tile Backsplash Adhesive
Use painter’s tape and apply it around the back edge of the countertop to protect the granite if it is a kitchen backsplash and around the paintwork or cabinet or bathtub in the bathroom. A 3/16″ V-notched trowel is the recommended tool for applying the glass tile backsplash adhesive to the wall. Each wall tile type has a different recommended adhesive so make sure that you select the correct adhesive for glass tiles, which is a white adhesive which disguises any color on the wall that could show through the glass. To apply the adhesive, hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle using the notched edge to form ridges in the mastic.
Step 3: Apply The Glass Tiles To The Adhesive
Smooth over the adhesive to remove any ridges before applying the tiles to the adhesive so that they do not show through the glass. The ridges are important as they form air bubbles that assist with the adhesion process. Lay the tiles either individually or in sheet onto the prepared adhesive and apply an even pressure to ensure it is firmly placed. The beveled tile edge on most tiles will provide a guide to spacing, if you do not have sheets of tiles. If you do need to cut tiles for edging, make sure that you use a wet saw.
Step 4: The Grouting Stage
Scrape off any excess adhesive from around the edges of the glass tile backsplash and from the wall so it doesn’t harden. Allow the adhesive to cure for the recommended time before applying the grout. Grout should be applied to your glass tile backsplash, according to the direction with a grouting tool. Clean away all excess grout after application of the glass tile backsplash before it dries.