A glass tile backsplash makes for a clean and contemporary upgrade to an older-looking kitchen design. Tiles come in a variety of styles to match just about any kitchen decor. Glass tiles are resistant to stains and mildew, and since they reflect light they help to make your room look bigger and brighter. Glass tile backsplashes are not too difficult to install and the required tools can be picked up at any tile supply store. Here are some tips that will help to make your weekend backsplash project both fun and highly productive.
Tiles
First off, you need to choose your tiles. A solid color backsplash is a good choice for older kitchens and is simple to install. In a newer kitchen you may choose to go with a glass mosaic tile backsplash to give your kitchen a more modern feel. A mosaic backsplash features two or more colors arranged in a pattern. The pattern can be as simple or complex as you choose to make it, but a basic design–with alternating light and dark colors–may be all you need to liven up your kitchen backsplash. A google image search for “mosaic tile backsplash” can give you some good ideas to work with.
Layout
When you’re ready to get started it helps to lay the glass tiles out on a flat surface beforehand so you know where each tile is going to go on the wall. Leave a 1/8″ space between each tile for grout. It is likely that the top and/or bottom row of tiles will need to be cut to fit into the desired space, so make sure you have a score-and-snap tile cutter or a wet saw on hand to make your cuts. Tiles around windows, cabinets, and electrical outlets will need to be cut as well. You can mark the tile with a wax pencil and cut each one when you’re ready to put it in. Just make sure to double-check it before making your cut.
Installation
Spread a thick layer of mastic onto the wall with a trowel and press a tile into place. It’s best to do a small section at a time, otherwise the mastic will start to dry out on you as you work. Insert a 1/8″ spacer between the tiles and move on to the next one. Handle the tile with care because glass tile may have sharp edges that can cut you if you’re not careful.
Grout
Once your tile is in place allow it to set for at least 24 hours. Remove all spacers and apply the grout by spreading it over the tile with a rubber float. Make sure to use a cross pattern and work the grout into the spaces really well. It’s okay if the surface of the tiles get dirty because it will easy come off later with a sponge and clean water. Wait at least 15 minutes before wiping the tiles clean. Then let the grout dry overnight and go back over it with a grout haze remover or a mixture of vinegar and water until the tiles are shiny.
A glass tile backsplash provides a distinctive look that friends and family will truly admire. With a little bit of effort today, you can enjoy a kitchen update that you will be proud of for years to come.