How to Hang Glass Tile Backsplash

Glass tile backsplashes can add a gorgeous, eye-catching accent to any kitchen or bathroom. With their reflective, shining surface, glass tiles create a modern, sleek look. However, working with these delicate tiles requires great care and precision. Successfully installing a glass tile backsplash ensures it will last for years while maintaining its lustrous beauty. We will walk through the entire process to teach you how to properly hang glass tile backsplash.

Choose the Right Glass Tile

Many types of glass tiles exist, so first decide which material best fits your design aesthetic and budget.

The main options include:

Clear Glass Tile – These transparent tiles pick up the color tones around them to gently blend with your scheme. Their modest gloss makes them suitable for conservative spaces.
Iridescent Glass Tile – Ranging from pearly white to rose gold, these tiles contain micro-layers that reflect light. The resulting colors shift magically depending on the viewing angle.
Metallic Glass Tile – With bold shimmers of copper, silver, gold, and more, metallic tiles make dramatic focal points. Their reflective properties give the illusion of depth.
Frosted or Etched Glass Tile – These tiles have a softly demurred finish. The opaque glass diffuses light gently for a muted effect.
Colorful Glass Tile – From deep cobalt to sunny tangerine, colored glass tiles deliver striking pops of color. Their richness pairs beautifully with white grout.

Consider the style you want and test samples before purchasing tiles. Check thickness, which is commonly 1/4 or 1/8 inch. Thinner tiles require more precision in handling. Calculate the total number of tiles needed based on the backsplash size by multiplying length and height. Add an extra 10% to allow for cuts and defects.

Prepare the Work Area

Installing glass tile backsplash requires careful prep and cleanup. Protect nearby surfaces, gather all necessary tools, and address any issues with the target wall surface:

Cover countertops and floors with drop cloths to prevent damage from falling tiles or materials.
Clear the work area of appliances, food items, and other obstructions.
Assemble all necessary tools before starting. This includes tile cutting tools, grout float, mixing paddles, sponges, tape measure, level, adhesive, grout, caulk, and tile spacers.
Ensure the target wall has no major holes, cracks, or protrusions that could interfere with tile adhesion. Fill any small holes with spackle and sand smooth.

Proper prep makes the installation process go smoothly and efficiently.

Plan the Tile Layout

Decide on the pattern and orientation for the tile layout. Glass tiles commonly follow horizontal grid arrangements due to their rectangular shape. Consider the following:

Offset Grid – Tiles are laid in straight rows but each adjacent row is offset half a tile length. This creates a basketweave look.
Stack Grid – Tiles neatly align both horizontally and vertically with the edges meeting perfectly. The result is a clean, linear appearance.
Herringbone – Tiles are set in a zigzag pattern turning at 90 degree angles. It lends a classic, tailored style.
Subway – Tiles are installed in a bricklaid pattern with the length extending horizontally. It’s a traditional, straightforward style.
Mosaic – Small, colorful tiles are set in decorative shapes and groupings. A mesh backing holds the tiny tiles together.

Figure the center point of the backsplash area and draw plumb lines to guide installation. Use blue painter’s tape to mark the layout design.

Cut the Tiles

Cutting glass tile takes patience and care to deliver clean, accurate results. Rushing the process can lead to cracked tiles. Follow these best practices:

Use a wet tile saw with a diamond glass cutting blade. Mark the score line with a felt tip pen. Work slowly to control cutting pressure.
For intricate curved cuts, use a mini saw with a narrow 3-5″ blade. Apply successive small cuts rather than one long cut.
Cut tiles face side up to minimize chipping on the visible surface. Support the underside as you cut.
Hold cut-off scraps in place while cutting to preserve the main tile piece.
Smooth any rough edges with a silicone carbide stone or sandpaper.
Cut tiles moderately larger than the target space. They can be gently nudged into position and trimmed later as needed.

Save all tile cuts since irregular edge pieces will likely be needed as spacers and fillers. A bit of extra time spent cutting carefully prevents tile damage.

Set the Base Coat

After preparing the tiles, apply a preliminary base layer of thinset adhesive. This critical step levels the surface and enhances adhesion.

Choose an appropriate adhesive for glass tile. White modified thinset offers flexibility and bonding power.
With a trowel, spread on an even 1/8” coat across the entire backsplash installation area.
Press firmly with the trowel to flatten the thinset layer. Use a wet sponge to smooth and shape it.
Allow the thinset base coat to partially dry until just tacky. The stage is now set for tiles.

Letting the base layer of thinset adhesive partially cure prevents it from oozing up between tiles. It provides a sound foundation.

Apply the Tile Adhesive

With the surface prepped, it’s time to mix up a batch of thinset mortar adhesive and attach the first tiles:

Choose white unmodified thinset for best adhesion with glass tile. Add latex enhancer for extra flexibility.
Mix the dry thinset powder with water per label instructions to a loose, creamy texture. Avoid making it too thin.
Use a notched trowel to spread on a 1/4″ layer of adhesive over about one square foot at a time.
Set the first tile in the corner and press it into the thinset with a slight twisting motion. Use plastic spacers.
Continue setting more tiles, working row by row. Check alignment frequently using guide lines.
Push tiles firmly into the adhesive and use a rubber grout float to apply even pressure and flatten them.

Take your time during application to keep tile spacing and alignment precise. Consistently checking progress maintains the layout design.

Grout the Tile Seams

Once the tile adhesive has dried 24-48 hours, it’s time to mix up grout and fill the seams between tiles:

Choose an unsanded grout suitable for grout joints 1/8” or less. Match the grout color with your tiles.
Following package instructions, mix the grout powder with water or latex additive to a thick, creamy consistency.
Holding the grout float at a 45° angle, firmly pack grout into the tile seams, scraping off excess.
After grouting a section, wipe the tiles clean with a damp sponge in a circular motion. Rinse the sponge frequently.
Once grout has dried 90 minutes, rub a soft cloth over the tiles to polish and reveal their sheen.

Cleaning grout off glass tile promptly prevents cloudy residue buildup that can dull the surface. Take precautions to avoid scratching.

Seal and Finish the Project

The glass tile backsplash is now fully installed but a few final steps remain:

After grout has cured 24 hours, apply grout sealer following label instructions to protect from stains.
Caulk perimeter edges and joints using a flexible silicone caulk that matches the grout color.
If necessary, trim any protruding tiles using a RotoZip rotary tool for clean, accurate cuts.
Wipe down the entire surface with a soft, damp microfiber cloth to remove any remaining haze or residue.
Finally, seal and polish the tiles using a specialist glass tile sealer to enhance luster and repel water.

With proper sealing and protection, a glass tile backsplash will keep its radiant beauty sparkling for many years of daily use.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Glass Tile Backsplash

What tools do I need to install a glass tile backsplash?

Essential tools include a wet saw with diamond blade, trowels, tile spacers, grout float, mixing paddle, sponges, tape measure, level, felt tip marker, caulk gun, silicone carbide stone, microfiber cloths, drop cloths, and more. Having all tools assembled beforehand streamlines the installation process.

How do I cut glass tiles?

Cut slowly and carefully using a wet saw with diamond blade made for glass. Support the tile and mark cuts with a pen. Make successive small cuts for curves rather than one long one. Save all scraps. Finish edges with silicone carbide stone or sandpaper.

What thinset mortar is best for glass tile?

Use white unmodified thinset for best adhesion with glass tiles. Mix it fairly thick and apply with a notched trowel in an even 1/4” layer. Let it become just tacky before setting tiles for optimal grabbing power. Add latex for more flexibility.

Can I use sanded grout with glass tiles?

No, only use unsanded grout with glass tiles since sanded grout can scratch the delicate surface. For joints 1/8” or less, choose an epoxy-based grout or polymer-modified grout. Avoid discoloring grouts with dyes.

How do I cut glass tiles around outlets?

Use a RotoZip rotary tool with specialized blade to cut neat holes for outlets and other obstructions. Work slowly and carefully. Protect surrounding tiles from damage during cutting. Smooth rough edges with carbide stone.

How do I polish glass tile after grouting?

Once grout has cured at least 90 minutes, gently wipe tiles with a soft, damp cloth in a circular motion. Avoid any abrasives. Use a specialized glass tile polishing compound or liquid car wax to restore sheen and luster if necessary. Re-seal after polishing.

Conclusion

Installing glass tile backsplash brings elegant, light-reflecting style to your living space. With the right tools and techniques, this eye-catching project can be tackled successfully as a DIY weekend upgrade. Protecting the delicate glass material requires careful handling and precision. But taking it slowly while following proper preparation, cutting, adhesive, grouting, and sealing steps will ensure your glass tile backsplash shines for a lifetime. With a gorgeous new backsplash as the focal point, your kitchen or bathroom will truly sparkle.