How to Install a Mosaic Glass Tile Kitchen Backsplash

Roberta Madison
by Roberta Madison

Mosaic Glass tiles are divine. The 1x1 inch squares may not look much butonce installed, they have this magical ability to transform the overallatmosphere of a place. As such, it is easy to understand why they have becomeso popular. Next year, in fact, glass tile will remain fashionable as designersand others experts in the field of interior decorating have stated thatreflective surfaces are in and glasstiles definitely fall under that. Whether as pool accents or as a full wallinstallation, mosaic glass tiles are impressive.


However, they are on anotherlevel of awesome if used as a kitchen backsplash. The tile colors, thereflective surface, and illumination from light sources can open up even themost sombre of kitchens. With knowing next year’s dandy trends, itmight be the best time to get started on some serious home renovation. Werecommend glasstiles but we also understand that, given the brittle nature ofglass, many folks might have an aversion to it. In truth though, mosaic glasstiles are less complicated than ceramic or porcelain. All you will need are a pairof scissors and a glass tile cutter. Armed with these, a fabulous kitchen backsplash is possible to accomplish within the span of a weekend. Advantagesof Using Glass tiles Some of you may ask though, why chooseglass tiles over other types? Apart from being stylish, there are a fewreasons.


One is that glass tiles are available in a number of colors and sizesgiving homeowners a wide range of options. Another is that glass is moreresistant to moisture, water, and even sudden temperature changes. Third, it iseasier to install than ceramic or porcelain. Fourth, the small squares can bepatterned into interesting designs and lastly, glass tiles are eco-friendly.Made from recycled glass, this is the choice for green proofing your home. With that in mind, let us get straight toworking on that backsplash.


MosaicGlass Tile Installation Materials: · Glass tiles · Thin-set mortar · Unsanded grout · Glass tile cutter · Trowel · Float · Sponge · Grout sealer · Tile spacers Steps: 1. Prepare and clean the workarea. Remove anything that will slow down work and carefully check the wallsurface for any residue. If the wall is painted, remove the paint first toensure a strong bond with the thin-set. In addition, if clear glass tiles areto be installed - it is vital to remove any previous paint job, as the colorwill be visible through the tile. 2. Practice safety and turn offthe power to the electrical outlets before removing the cover plates. Ifneeded, place a ledger for any gaps (such as the space where the stove is.) 3. Do a dry run and see how thebacksplash will look. Take corners and electrical outlets into account andmeasure the tiles to fit into these spaces. A test run will also help identifypotential problem areas. 4. Spread thin-set on the wall andplace tiles. Start at the bottom and work your way up. Make sure everything islevel and use tile spacers for even spacing. (Tip: Use only white, fast setting thin-set. Mastic adhesives canstay moist beneath non-porous tiles such as glass.) 5. If the tiles need to betrimmed, simply snip the mesh that holds the small tiles together. If the tilesneed cutting, use a glass tile cutter. This is a very handy and yet inexpensivetool. Aside from giving consistent clean cuts, this tool can be mastered by anewbie within minutes. 6. After installation, allow the thin-settodry in about 24 hours. Do not touch or do anything to the tiles. 7. Remove any excess thin-set then apply unsanded grout. (Tip:Sanded grout can scratch glass tile surface.) 8. Let the grout dry according tomanufacturer’s instructions then polish the tiles with a sponge. 9. Apply caulk where thebacksplash meets the counter or cabinet. Let dry again according tomanufacturer’s instructions. Finally, remove ledgers and place back the outlet's cover plates. Then, step back and enjoy the lovely new backsplash.

Owned by glasstilestore.com
Owned by glasstilestore.com
Owned by glasstilestore.com
Roberta Madison
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  • Nan Todd Nan Todd on May 05, 2017

    How do you handle the gap between the cover plate and the outlet or switch now that the wall is thicker? That's what has been holding me back.

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