Do you feel like taking on a relatively easy DIY project this weekend? If so, check out our 7 easy steps on how to install a glass tile backsplash.

Step 1: Select A Tile And Get All Of Your Supplies

The first thing you want to do before starting your glass tile installation project is make sure you have all of the tools and supplies you need to get started.
Items needed to complete this project are:

• Glass Tiles
• Mortar (Tile Adhesive)
• Grout
• Notched Trowel
• Spacers
• Measuring Tape
• Tile Cutter
• Utility knife
• Level
• Sponge
• Float
• Drop Cloth

Step 2: Wall Prep

Bet you didn’t think you’d be cleaning walls when you started this project? In order to get good adhesion with the mortar, you want to make sure your walls are prepped before starting to put anything on the walls. Wipe down your walls with a damp rag to get rid of any dust or debris and then give your wall time to dry before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Measure Your Wall Space

Taking good measurements is important. Measure your wall from the underside of your bottom cabinet to the top of your kitchen counter. If your counter top has a lip, like a laminate counter top would for example, then measure to the bottom lip of the counter top.
Lay out your tiles and make sure you have enough to fill the space. Then use a level to mark your stopping point on the wall.

Step 4: Mix Mortar And Apply It To Your Walls

Mix the mortar according to the directions on the bag and wait about 8 to 10 minutes until the mortar is set.
Once the mortar is set, use your trowel to apply a thin set to the wall, and work in small sections at a time. If you apply too much mortar to the wall at one time, it will dry before you’ve had a chance to work with it and attach your tiles.

Step 5: Apply Tiles

Apply your tiles to the mortar from the bottom center and work your way outwards and up. Make sure you work the tiles into the mortar and use your level to make sure you’re keeping everything plumb.
If your tiles are not attached together in sections, use spacers between each tile. As the mortar begins to dry you can remove the spacers from between the tiles.

Step 6: Cut Tiles

If you need to work around outlets, or have any edges where you’ll need remove any excess tiles, you’ll need to use a tile cutter or a wet saw if you have lots of tiles that need to be cut. Just be sure you do this prior to applying your tile to the wall.

Step 7: Apply Grout

After you’ve cleaned your tiles with the sponge and the mortar has set, the next step is to apply grout to the tiles. Follow the instructions according to the directions when mixing the grout to make sure you’re getting the correct consistency.

Use a float to apply your grout into the tiles at a 45 degree angle, making sure you’re not pushing too hard, or you’ll sink your tiles too deep into the mortar making them fall out of alignment.

Allow the grout a few minutes to set then use a damp sponge to wipe off any excess grout on top of the tiles. Once the grout is completely dry, go back over it again with a dry cloth.

At this point you’re done and can enjoy the fruits of your labor, but if you choose to, you can apply a sealer to your tiles to prevent any mold and mildew.

Now that you know how to install a glass tile backsplash do you think you can do it? Leave us a comment and let us know.
 
Did you know TheRTAStore is more than just kitchen cabinets? We offer a wide variety of items for kitchens and bathrooms. We have a beautiful selection of Glass Tiles available in many different sizes, shapes, and patterns.