Attach Shelves – these shelves have a slot on the back side that you slide over the installed bracket. Saturday: Wait for the thinset to cure for a full 48 hours. If you're not sold on glass tile backsplash, check out these other types of back splash in our 2017 Backsplash Trends Look Book. This area is not very visible since it is under the cabinets. If you're wondering how much it will cost, check out our cost guide on installing backsplash professionally. Sand down bumps with a drywall sander fitted with a drywall sanding screen or sandpaper. Continue this process until the desired amount of backsplash is placed. You can easily test this by running your hand across the tile lightly. Remember to leave space for grout, usually 1/8". Hold the second section so that it is 1/8-inch below the bottom of the wall cabinet and overlapping the bottom section. Install a Glass Tile Inset . Compare prices and profiles to get the right price for your project! To apply, hold the trowel at 45-degree angle and use the notched edge to make ridges in the mastic. This is crucial because glass is transparent, and the color of the adhesive can affect it. The type of tile you choose doesn't have much bearing on the installation procedure because it's basically the same for all of them. If the space between the top row of tiles and cabinetry is greater than an inch, cut your extra tile pieces to fit the space. Continue setting more tile sheets within the tile field, from side to side. Test outlets before proceeding to place tile. Replace the electrical outlets with extenders, if needed. Using a rubber float or equivalent tool, gently press the tile into the adhesive to ensure. Mosaic Tile Backsplash. Adding a new backsplash or updating the existing kitchen backsplash is a fast way to update the most used room in your home. We hope you enjoyed our guide on how to install glass tile backsplash! For our new kitchen, we have decided to use a horizontal 3″x6″ glass subway tile to provide a clean, modern look. Begin sliding the cardboard spacers out from the bottom row of tiles. (See below for tools and a shopping list. Glass is very easy to clean up, and it can help highlight a unique commercial cooking range. Lay cardboard spacers flat on the countertop with their edges pressed against the wall. So if your kitchen’s got the blahs, give it a quick infusion of pizzazz with kitchen backsplash tile. Select your Glass Tile BackSplash: Tile Cirle.com offers a variety of glass tile selections including subway glass tiles and mosaic glass tiles. Glass Tile Advantages Unmatched beauty: The translucence and endless color varieties of glass arguably make it the most beautiful, contemporary-looking backsplash material you can choose. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years. The 1x1 inch squares may not look much butonce installed, they have this magical ability to transform the overallatmosphere of a place. Use painter's tape to protect your surroundings wherever you are installing your glass and use only a white thin set mortar recommended from the glass manufacturer to adhere your tiles. 4. Mosaic glass tiles in 12-inch by 12-inch squares are held together with a mesh backing—no need to set tiles one by one. Mosaic Glass tiles are divine. With the notched edge, pull across the thinset horizontally. Glass tile is a favorite material for backsplashes because of its beauty, versatility, and durability. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates a fast, no-fuss way to tile a kitchen backsplash. If you need help, contact us for free quotes from licensed, bonded, and insured professionals! After calculating how many rows and columns of tile you will need, begin planning the exact layout including any accent tiles you wish to include. If you have outlets on the wall you plan to install the backsplash, you will need to cut the tile beforehand. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. For areas outside of the countertop area, create a ledgerboard by screwing scrap one-by-two or one-by-four lumber directly to the wall. When applying and pressing grout, move the grout float diagonal to the lines only. Apply the mortar using the appropriate notch in straight lines Prime the flat edge of the trowel with a small amount of mortar Knock down the mortar ridges Back butter the clear glass tile with a thin film of about a sixteenth of an inch Notch the adhesive strips, if necessary, to fit around obstacles. The Cost to Install a Glass Tile Backsplash estimator will provide you with up to date pricing for your area. If the backsplash goes around a window, less tile may be used, but the general rule-of-thumb is to purchase 10% more than the actual square footage needed, to allow for broken pieces or possible mis-cuts. Then, make straight, parallel lines in the mortar by pressing into it with a notched trowel to help the tiles stick to the wall. Glass Subway Tile Backsplash Installation Tips One of the easiest ways to give your kitchen a new, custom look is to install a glass tile backsplash. Glass Tile is a very popular backsplash that comes in many different styles, types, colors, and textures that are easy to incorporate into your home. Slightly rock the sheet up and down, perpendicular to the trowel lines, to collapse the ridges and help the tile settle into place. With glass mosaic tiles, it is usually possible to avoid. Flatten the tile with a grout float if necessary. Move the tile along the length of the placed tile and continue tapping it until all pieces are evenly placed. Once slid over the bracket, insert the included screws in the holes on the bottom of each shelf and wrench to tighten them into place. How to Install Backsplash Project overview: Planning, materials and tools Nothing packs more style per square inch than mosaic tile for kitchen backsplash tile ideas. After the mortar sets and the tiles have been cleaned of any excess mortar, mix up the unsanded grout to the consistency recommended by the manufacturer’s directions. If it's uneven, go ahead and re-tap the uneven places. Additionally, watch our video demonstating the installation of a glass subway tile backsplash project we completed in New Jersey. Working in 2-foot square sections to prevent the thinset from drying on you, add thinset to the wall in a three-step process: At the centerline, press a sheet of tiles into the thinset, resting on the countertop spacer. Occasionally tap the tiles with the one-by-four and the hammer to flatten them, especially where tile sheets meet. A single layer of scrap cardboard taped to the counter with painter's tape works well as a spacer. Fill out our 2 minute questionnaire to get started! Friday: Prep the wall, apply the thinset, and install the tile. It is best to work in small areas at a time. One edge of the sheet should be on the centerline. When it comes to installing ceramic, porcelain, or stone tile backsplash we recommend you contact a professional. The space immediately behind a range cooktop can be a great place for a full inset panel made from glass tiles. The tiles reflect the light to give your kitchen or bath the appearance of being brighter and larger. This material is … If you are unsure of what backsplash you want, check out our 2017 Look Book of Backsplash Trends. 2. One person can align the piece of glass where you want to install it, whilst the other places the 2mm packers against the wall. With the tape measure, determine the center of your tile installation field. Turn off circuits to all outlets in the backsplash installation area. The average hourly cost of labor for experienced tile installers to cut and place the tiles is $71.50. Use the wall marks as a general guide of where to apply the mastic. It is important to apply grout sealer annually. It does not only transform a room but it also protects your walls from splatters and stains. The bottom row of glass tiles will require a space of 1/8-inch between the bottom of the row and the top of the countertops. Yes, this entire backsplash can be removed with just a few screws. Adjust the Layout to Fit the Space Step 1: Set a Center Point Find the center of the wall that best suits your tile selection and mark a vertical line. Make sure that the ledgerboard meets the height of the countertop cardboard spacer, not the countertop itself. I purchased the Ryobi $125 wet saw at Home Depot, custom ordered the blue glass subway tile from Dahl tile along with the thin-set mortar, trowel, spacers and grout. Continue this process until the desired amount of backsplash is placed. If the edge of the tile does not butt up against a … It's better to have all spacing issues worked out ahead of time—well before working with the thin-set mortar. Knowing how to install tile backsplash is an effective way to save money by doing the work yourself. The size of the area will determine the number of tiles you’ll need to buy, as well as the space you’ll need to prepare, so keep this information noted down when purchasing your equipment. Step One: Grab your grout float, apply and press grout between the tiles. I also decided to make the backsplash removable/modular. The wall should be perfectly flat and free from bumps or depressions. The space behind a sink is also a good place for a glass tile insert panel. Because installing glass is a little different then installing ceramic, knowing what to do is important. These backsplash installation costsare fo… Flatten down the grooves in the thinset with the broad, flat side of the trowel. Once you finish the bottom row, move to the second (top) row. This colorful, geometric design will give your kitchen a bright, fresh look. If it feels even you did it correct. Next, push the tiles firmly into the mortar, and continue applying the mortar and tiles in 3 inch by 3 inch spaces. Similar to the previous step, use scissors to cut the tile to its correct vertical dimension, plus make any cut-outs for electrical outlets. For a successful glass tile backsplash installation, you must use a white, latex-additive thinset mortar. You want the grout to be dry enough to hold the joints in place, but wet enough to be cleaned without applying too much pressure. Flatten down the grooves in the thinset with the broad, flat side of the trowel. Minimum = $9.13 2. Mix and match from assorted sell units to achieve a consistent variation. The manufacturer recommended this mastic for this type of tile. Installing a glass tile backsplash is made easy with a sticky thin-set mortar that secures the tiles firmly to the wall. For example, if there is a corner on the left side and a refrigerator on the right side, begin with full tiles on the left and end adjacent to or behind the refrigerator, again with full tiles. Be sure to spread the mastic evenly. After the grout has dried, clean off the haze with grout haze cleaner. Step One: Start by measuring from the top of your counter to the bottom of your cabinets, followed by the height of the wall you intend to place the backsplash. Step Two: It is important that you take care to mind your timing during the next few steps. Avoid placing cut tiles in visible places as much as possible. In most kitchens, the distance between the top of the countertop and the bottom of the wall cabinets is 20 inches. Project Timeline. Compare prices and profiles of our licensed, bonded, and insured professionals and get the best price for your project! With the notched edge, pull across the thinset horizontally. Email us at info@greatpros.comFor issues with a project please call 623-745-0777, Questions You Need to Ask a Contractor Before you Hire Them - Questions to Ask General Contractor, The No-Stress Guide on How to Hire a Contractor near you, How to Find a Good Contractor - Everything you Need to Look for, Unsanded Grout (unless otherwise specified). How To Install Glass Splashback Part 3 – Prepping The Glass Backsplash This next step is easier with 2 people. Maintain a thickness of around 1/4-inch. Determine the square footage of your backsplash: Measure the length of the backsplash, in inches, and multiply it … There is never pressure or hassle when you use Great Pros. Simply enter your zip code and the square footage, next click update and you will see how much it should Cost to Install a Glass Tile Backsplash installed at your home. Step Four: Wait two weeks before applying grout sealer for the first time. Try sticking to a work space of 3 feet for the best results. Use a measuring tape and a pencil to mark out the area your backsplash will cover. If you find that your wall is smaller than the amount of tile, consider moving the jagged end to an inner corner wall. Caulk the corners of the tile. Apply the grout with a float, gliding over the tiles at a 45-degree angle. With the notched trowel, pull out thinset mortar and fan it across the wall, using the flat edge of the trowel. Kitchen backsplash is a wonderful way to show off your design tastes. Two mosaic tile sheets stacked are 24 inches high, total. Step 2 Apply glass mosaic sheets, mesh-side down, firmly into the freshly spread setting material. Sunday: Clean the tile, grout the joints, and caulk the perimeter. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series, A laser level is helpful, though not necessary, for installing a. Move the tile along the length of the placed tile and continue tapping it until all pieces are evenly placed. The tiles will be held on the wall with thin-set or mastic. Note: if you still have ANY mastic or mortar still on the wall, you need to go back and work more on the tile removal process. Maintain a thickness of around 1/4-inch. Step Two: Place a strip of painter's tape along the top of your counter and on the bottom of your cabinets. Excess thinset will stick to the trowel or fall to the countertop. Hold up one section of tiles to the wall, resting on the cardboard spacer. After the tile has fully cured in the thinset, apply grout with the rubber grout float. If you are filling space less than 1/8", purchase "unsanded" grout unless otherwise specified. Steps for Installing a Glass Tile Backsplash: Snap a chalk line onto the backsplash wall 5½ inches above the countertop. Adding a backsplash to your kitchen is one of the most ideal solutions you can try if you want to upgrade the look of your home. Tile backsplashes look great and are low maintenance, and glass tile is one of the most attractive, versatile and easiest-to-clean backsplash materials out there. Click here for more glass tile options. So, this gives you plenty of working room. Yikes, I didn’t harp to long on that scenario. Aligning the outside edge with the wall and resting the bottom on the cardboard spacer, begin pressing the glass tile sheet into place. Shoot the laser level's vertical line at this spot. Measure beforehand to ensure your tile does not go over the length of your outside wall. Grout the Tile Backsplash To avoid scratching the glass tiles, grout with unsanded grout. Maximum = $17.89 In addition to the cost of the glass tiles, homeowners who are installing a glass tile backsplash will encounter some additional expenses related to the project. Tile backsplashes need a 1/8-inch expansion gap around the perimeter where the tile meets the cabinets and countertops. Step Three: Begin with the bottom row if you are stacking more than one row of glass tile. With scissors, cut the mesh backing that holds the tiles together. Use a utility knife and steel-rule straightedge to cut five ⅜-inch-wide strips of tile adhesive. Use a 3/16" V-notched trowel to spread white tile mastic (adhesive) on the wall. If you are removing any outlets or switch covers, remember to turn the power off from your fuse box. Tips For Installing a Glass Tile Backsplash, 28 Amazing Design Ideas for Kitchen Backsplashes, Kitchen Tile Backsplash Tips for Working Around Wall Obstacles, How to Convert an Acrylic or Fiberglass Shower to Ceramic Tile, Adhesive Tile Mat Backsplash Review: Pros and Cons, How to Repair Water-Damaged Tile Shower Walls. At this point, you want to establish your horizontal spacing. You can easily test this by running your hand across the tile lightly. Place tile squares along your counter allowing a 1/8" gap between each to leave room for grout. To install glass tiles, start by spreading the mortar on the wall in a 3 inch by 3 inch space. As the grout begins to form it will haze your tile, when you see this take a moist sponge and clean away the excess. 1. Supplies such as grout and tile adhesive add an average of $1.48 per finished square foot of backsplash. Step Four: Holding a block of wood firmly, begin tapping it with a hammer to evenly set the individual pieces of tile. If it feels even you did it correct. 5. Step Three: Before the grout has completely dried, use a soft, dry cloth to clean off the remaining haze. Backsplash installations can be done by yourself as a DIY project, or you can find a professional to get the job done. It's important to use white adhesive, because any color behind the tile will show through the glass. With outlets, you have a bit more tolerance because the outlet faceplate provides up to 1-inch of coverage in all directions. Natural stone should be sealed prior to grouting. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide to installing a kitchen tile backsplash. Cover the countertop in plastic sheeting and tape down the plastic. Determine where you want to cut the tile sheet. Fill in depressions and cracks by smoothing them over with drywall compound. Excess thinset will stick to the trowel or fall to the countertop. You do not want jagged cut tile on the outside wall. Find out why everyone usesus for home projects! To begin installing a tile backsplash, you should first determine the boundaries that will contain it. Creating a plumb, or perfectly vertical, line from the countertop up to the cabinetry is a good way to do that. Starting at the bottom and working your way up, attach the tile sheets to the mortar by pressing them firmly into it. Step Five: Let dry for 24 hours or the designated amount of time given by the maker. Measure the space where you want to install your backsplash. Spend ample time dry-fitting the tile on the countertop before installing it on the wall. Average cost per finished square foot of glass tile backsplash: 1. Be sure to wash the sponge frequently throughout the process to ensure the best results. Create a custom kitchen backsplash with inexpensive glass tiles and marbles. A glass tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom announces itself with shimmering light and rich colors. Using a toothed trowel, begin spreading the mastic over the area where the first 3 feet of tile will be installed. Lay out the tile on the countertop. 1) Put your tile and tile adhesive in the room you are going to be installing and maintain the temperature at 70 degrees or more for a full 24 hours before you start this how to install a subway tile backsplash. This video is to show how to install a glass tile backsplash. If it's uneven, go ahead and re-tap the uneven places. Run the float diagonally across the tiles to avoid digging out the grout. Only move the grout float diagonal to the grout lines. With multicolored, small mosaic tile, you can capture the look of an upscale spa in your kitchen, or you can have a more classic tiled-backsplash look with square subway tiles. As such, it is easy to understand why they have becomeso popular. Following the line of tiles on your counter take a pencil and sketch a general guide for applying mastic and continue up the length of your wall. Questions? It's usually fine if you need to increase the upper 1/8-inch expansion space to 1/4-inch or even 1/2-inch. Step by step, learn the materials and tools needed for a glass tile backsplash installation. Do not touch or clean the tiles during this time. Tap the sheet with a short scrap piece of one-by-four and a hammer to set the tiles in place. How-to Install a Glass Mosaic Tile Backsplash Illustration by Gregory Nemec. You can check out our cost guide post to estimate how much it would be to intall backsplash in your kitchen professionally. Learn how easy it is to install a kitchen tile backsplash with these step-by-step instructions. For free quotes without hassle or pressure, fill out our 2-minute questionnaire.