Wall Glass Tile Installation

Glass tile installation is similar to methods used for ceramic porcelain and natural stone.

Wall glass tile installation.

To avoid scratching the glass tiles grout with unsanded grout. Glass tile is a very finicky type of ti. Don t start it at the floor. To do so make sure all of the tiles are intact and secure.

How to install a glass mosaic tile backsplash illustration by gregory nemec. 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. This provides added protection against bleed through of markings or old paint. A batten board is nothing more than a 1 x4 or 1 x2 board screwed directly into the wall horizontally.

Fix your straight length of timber batten to the wall you are going to tile. Thinset mortar should cover the entire area behind the tile but there is a chance a small spot could be missed. Then make straight parallel lines in the mortar by pressing into it with a notched trowel to help the tiles stick to the wall. Use a 3 16 v notched trowel to spread white tile mastic adhesive on the wall.

If you go with a translucent glass tile be sure to prime the wall white prior to installation. Apply the grout with a float gliding over the tiles at a 45 degree angle. Wait for the thinset to cure for a full 48 hours. Prep the wall apply the thinset and install the tile.

A batten board helps you start your bottom most course or row of tiles. If existing tiles are beyond repair remove the tile and install a piece of wallboard in its place. Remove the tile and prepare the wall according to the corresponding instructions above or tile over the existing tile. To install glass tiles start by spreading the mortar on the wall in a 3 inch by 3 inch space.

The manufacturer recommended this mastic for this type of tile. If you are planing to install glass tile then there are a few things you need to know before you start your install. Instead bring it up to about 3 4 of the height of your tiles. Wash the wall with tsp tri sodium phosphate or an ammonia based cleaner to remove any grease or oil.

Do not touch or clean the tiles during this time. The batten should run the full length of the wall and be positioned with the top edge one tile width plus one grout joint width above the floor or work surface. It s important to use white adhesive because any color behind the tile will show through the glass. Clean the tile grout the joints and caulk the perimeter.

Hang a batten board to prevent tile slippage. Repair any loose or cracked tiles.