How to Install Glass Tile in Your Home

Glass tile can create a classic and expensive look for your home that can be had at a price that is much more affordable than what one would believe at first. They can be installed anywhere in your home and make ideal kitchen backsplashes and bathroom tiles. While the rewards are easily attainable, things can quickly become a hassle if you don't take a careful approach in installing these tiles in your home. Read on to learn how to avoid complicating things for yourself and prevent those simple mistakes that can extend your project for who knows how long.

When buying glass tile at your local home improvement store, remember to consult with the sales staff to determine which tile and mortar combination is ideal. Combining the wrong mortar with your tile can actually lead to the mortar to failing on you. Getting the right kind is important as it eliminates having to go back to the store again after botching an afternoon's worth of work on your kitchen or bathroom.

Clear the work area of any obstacles such as furniture, cabling and wires. If the cement sub-surface to be worked on isn't likely to get wet then it's fine to install the tile directly on top. If not then make sure that it has a waterproof membrane. Make sure that the surface is free from dirt and moisture and is stable enough to properly lay down the tile.

Measure the area for height and width and cut your tile accordingly then mark the wall with horizontal and vertical lines to act as markers that will aid you in laying down the tile. You can do the cutting yourself but you can also have it done professionally at the store if you're not confident enough in your skill. Simply give the surface measurement that you took previously.

Apply the mortar using a notched trowel, first to the work surface, then to the back of the glass tile itself. This ensures that you get an even coat on both surfaces and prevent any flaws in workmanship from showing through the glass.

Working in two to three foot areas, apply the tile to the surface using spacers as you go along. Working in small areas at a time prevents the mortar from drying out before you are able to lay down the tile. It also allows you to make any adjustments necessary while the mortar hasn't set in yet.

Apply the grout using a grout float and make sure that you fill the crevices in between the tiles. Allow the tile to set for abut 24 hours and then sponge off the excess with clean water.

The actual installation minus the time required for the glass tile to set can be done in just a few hours. This is a look that you can appreciate all throughout the house and doesn't require as much time as other expensive looking projects can take during installation.

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