Installing a back painted glass backsplash can add a stunning focal point to any kitchen or bathroom. With the right preparation and technique, it’s easy to DIY this project for a custom high-end look. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process from selecting the right materials to final installation. Follow along to learn insider tips to help your glass backsplash installation go smoothly.
Selecting Back Painted Glass Tiles
The first step is choosing your back painted glass tiles. There are a few considerations when selecting tiles to ensure you get the perfect fit and aesthetic for your space:
Tile Size
Back painted glass tile comes in a range of different sizes from mosaics as small as 1” to large format tiles 12” or larger. Smaller tiles like mosaics create a busier look with more grout lines while larger tiles have a more seamless, sleek appearance.
Most backsplashes use tile sizes between 4”-6”. This provides a good balance between grout lines and large scale visual impact. Larger tiles can be used if you want to create a more dramatic look but require very flat walls and precise installation.
Tile Shape
Beyond just size, back painted glass tile comes in different shapes including:
- Square/rectangular
- Hexagon
- Penny rounds
- Diamonds
- Subway tiles
- Large format rectangles
The shape you choose impacts the overall look and feel. For example, rectangular subway tiles create a classic vintage aesthetic while hexagons make a geometric modern statement.
Tile Color
Back painted glass tiles are available in every color imaginable. Solid colors make a bold statement. Mural designs and tiles with variations in tone can create more complex patterns. Consider colors and designs that will complement your cabinetry and counters.
Tile Finish
Tiles can have a glossy shine or more subdued matte finish. Glossy finishes have more reflective qualities that bounce light around the kitchen. Matte or satin finishes have a soft haze that is often easier to keep clean from fingerprints.
Buying Tip
When purchasing back painted glass tile, order 10-15% extra to account for breakage, cutting, and pattern inconsistencies. You can return unused tiles but it’s better to have more than you need.
Gather the Right Installation Tools
Installing a backsplash is largely about precise tile cutting. Gather the following tools to make the job easier:
- Tile cutter – Specialty glass cutters have diamond encrusted wheels for smooth cuts.
- Nippers – Allows nibbling away extra shards from intricate cuts.
- Wet saw – For involved curved cuts or outlets, a wet saw is needed to prevent cracking.
- Grout float – Floats have a spongy surface to spread grout smoothly over the tile.
- Rubber grout float – Softer than traditional floats to avoid scratching glass tile when grouting.
- Spacers – Plastic spacers keep consistent grout line width between tiles.
- Grout sealer – Seals grout lines on glass tile to allow easy cleaning.
- Laser level – Projects guiding horizontal and vertical laser lines for perfect alignment.
- Painter’s tape – Used to create clean borders and define edges.
Prepare and Measure the Area
Take time to properly measure and prepare the backsplash area for an efficient installation process:
Clean Surface
Start by fully cleaning the wall surface. Remove any existing backsplash, wallpaper, or other debris. Repair holes or imperfections in the wall with spackle and sand smooth.
Mark Switch and Outlet Locations
Mark the locations of any electrical switches, outlets, or other fixtures on the wall. These will need to be accounted for in tile layout.
Measure Dimensions
Measure the height and width of the backsplash area. Standard backsplash height is 4” above the countertop although you can adjust to your preference. Make sure to account for any unevenness or inconsistencies on the walls.
Calculate Tile Layout
Dry lay tiles across the backsplash area following the planned pattern. Use spacers to gauge the right grout line thickness. Measure the total tiles needed based on layout dimensions.
Allow Tile to Acclimate
At least 24-48 hours prior to installation, unpack all tiles and allow them to acclimate to room humidity and temperature. This prevents later cracking, warping, or discoloration.
Prep and Prime the Wall Surface
With measurements complete, start prepping and priming the wall:
Sand Surface
Lightly sand the wall area with 220 grit sandpaper. This allows the thinset mortar to adhere tightly.
Apply Drywall Sealer
Paint on a coat of drywall sealer primer. Allow to fully dry before moving to next steps.
Skim Coat Uneven Areas
If any sections of the wall seem rough or uneven, apply a skim coat of joint compound followed by primer to create a flat surface.
Mix and Apply Thinset Mortar
Thinset mortar provides the strong adhesive base to bond tile to the wall surface:
Select Suitable Thinset
For glass tile, a high quality white thinset mortar is best. This prevents visible shadow lines at the grout joints.
Mix to Toothpaste Consistency
Slowly add thinset powder to room temperature water in a bucket. Mix to a smooth, lump-free toothpaste like consistency.
Apply to Backsplash Area
Using a notched trowel, apply a thin layer of thinset to the backsplash area. Hold trowel at 45° angle dragging to create ridges.
Work in Small Sections
Only apply thinset in 3-4 square foot sections at a time. Thinset dries quickly so working in phases prevents lumps or cracking.
Install Backer Board if Needed
On surfaces like plaster that don’t hold thinset well, cut and install backer board first according to manufacturer directions. Then apply thinset.
Set the Tiles
Once thinset is prepared, carefully set and space the glass tiles into place:
Work Methodically
Start tiles in the center working outward. This helps keep lines and grout spacing even on all sides.
Apply Thinset to Tiles
Use the notched edge of the trowel to apply a layer of thinset to the back of each tile before placing it on the wall.
Use Spacers Consistently
Put plastic spacers between tiles to maintain the desired grout line thickness as you work. Keep spacing consistent.
Press Tiles Firmly
Use care when handling glass tiles to avoid cracking. Press each tile firmly into the thinset to create a strong bond to the wall.
Make Precise Cuts
Use the tile cutter, nippers, or wet saw as needed to cut border and outlet tiles for exact fit. Reapply thinset after cutting before setting tile.
Check Alignment
Periodically use the laser level to verify tiles are level and aligned. Adjust as needed while thinset is still wet.
Apply Grout
After the thinset fully cures, normally 24 hours, it’s time to grout the tile joints:
Tape Off Countertop Edge
Apply painter’s tape along the countertop edge to keep a clean border where the backsplash meets the counter.
Dampen Tile Surface
Use a sponge to lightly dampen the tiles before grouting. This prevents the tiles from absorbing moisture from the grout too quickly.
Apply Grout on Joints
Use a rubber grout float to spread grout smoothly over the joints, pressing into spaces between tiles. Remove any excess grout on the tile surface.
Clean Grout Haze
Once grout has set 10-15 minutes, use a lightly damp sponge in a circular motion to remove any hazy grout film on the tiles. Take care not to dislodge grout from joints.
Remove Tape and Spacers
Carefully peel off all painters tape. Also pop out any remaining tile spacers from the joints.
Let Fully Cure
Allow grout to cure fully for 72 hours. Avoid getting the grout wet during this time.
Seal and Finish
The final step is sealing the grout lines and polishing for added protection and shine:
Apply Grout Sealer
Paint grout sealer evenly over all joints according to manufacturer directions. Allow sealer to fully cure.
Polish Tiles
Use a soft cloth to apply glass tile polish. Rub in a circular motion to create light finishing shine on the tile. Avoid polishing the grout.
Admire Your Work
Step back and admire your stunning, professionally finished back painted glass backsplash! Enjoy for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have some questions about installing a back painted glass backsplash? Here are answers to some commonly asked DIY questions.
What’s the Best Grout Color for Back Painted Glass Tile?
Matching the grout color to your tile color minimizes the visible grout lines for a seamless look. White or very light grey grout works best for most back painted glass tiles. Avoid any darker grout colors that could look dirty over time.
How Do You Cut Holes in Glass Tile Backsplash?
Use a glass and tile wet saw to cut any detailed openings needed in the tile for outlets or fixtures. Make multiple shallow passes when cutting to avoid cracking tile. Smooth the cut edges with sandpaper so there are no sharp areas.
Should Glass Tile Backsplash Go All the Way to Ceiling?
Standard backsplash height is 4” above the counter although you can extend to the bottom of upper cabinets or all the way to the ceiling. Going to the ceiling makes a bolder design statement but requires cutting tiles to fit electrical boxes unless you move them lower.
Can You Use Regular Thinset for Glass Tile?
Tile dealers recommend using a premium white thinset for glass tiles instead of multipurpose thinset. The white thinset provides a clean look that won’t shadow through the glass tile. It also fully cures to a harder consistency.
How Long Does Thinset Take to Dry Before Grouting?
Check thinset manufacturer recommendations but normally 24 hours of curing time is needed before grouting glass tiles. Cool, humid conditions may require longer curing time. Test thickness by touching the thinset before grouting to make sure no residue transfers.
Is Glass Tile More Expensive than Ceramic?
Glass tile is typically two to four times more expensive per square foot compared to ceramic tile. However, the dramatic impact of glass often allows using less square footage to create visual appeal. The long-lasting durability also saves replacement costs over time.
Conclusion
A stunning back painted glass backsplash can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. While professional installation is always an option, with the right planning and technique, this is a DIY friendly project for most homeowners. Just take your time to prepare the space, use quality installation products, and work carefully when setting the delicate glass tiles. The end result will be a stunning focal point you can enjoy for decades to come. With this guide’s step-by-step directions, you can install your back painted glass backsplash with confidence.