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The beauty of glass tile makes it a popular material for those who are remodeling their kitchen s or bathrooms. Installing a glass tile backsplash is not a complicated process. You can actually do it yourself. However, you need to do it right to get the best results. The following steps will show you how you can install your glass tile backsplash in the simplest way possible to give your room an attractive look.
This is the stage where you do all the necessary measurements as well as incorporating any designs that you've thought about. Make sure that you do the measurement well enough to ascertain the tile rows required. Of great importance still, ensure that you take into account 1/8 inch grout lines in the measurements.
Check the manufacturer's instructions for the thin-set mortar and follow them during the mixing. Mix water and mortar as you stir. Make sure that you add the mortar to water, according to the instructions of the manufacturer, as you continue to stir. You will know that it's ready when you notice it looking creamy. After mixing the mortar, wait for about 10 minutes. After the 10 minutes are over, apply the mortar to the wall using a trowel. For a quality finish, apply smooth and even strokes. Again, for you to do a good job, ensure that you apply approximately a 2-square-foot section in each application. It will be good for you to clean the surface using a sponge as you continue.
As you lay the tiles, it is best if you start with the tiles at the bottom row. Lay the tiles gently on the thin-set mortar. Press the tiles so that they are well positioned into the mortar. By doing this, you should ensure that the tiles are flat and well leveled. You can use a spacer to ensure that there is adequate space between the tiles. Once the mortar begins to dry, you can now pull the spacers out.
It's now time to cut the glass tiles to the required size. You can choose to use a manual cutter. It will do a good job. As you use the cutting blade, you should make a smooth motion so that you don't make a mistake. You can try the process using some tiles so that you avoid making the mistakes. Once you're confident, you can now cut to size. If you realize that there are edges that are exposed, it's prudent for you to polish them using a grinding stone. This will ensure that the tiles have a more polished look.
Take note that if you have multiple cuttings or you have complexcuttings especially if you're tiling where electrical outlets are present, the best tool to use is a wet saw. Even though it can be a bit costly, a wet saw will make sure that tiles are cut in the much-needed smooth way.
At this stage, it's highly advisable for you to use unsanded grout so that you do not scratch the glass tiles. Once you have made sure that the mortar has set and you have cleaned any excess mortar on the tiles, mix the unsanded grout according to the instructions of the manufacturer. This should help you to know the consistency that is required for the mixture. After you have mixed the grout, apply it without putting much pressure. If you apply a lot of pressure, you run the risk of sinking the tiles. As you continue with this process, keep on checking to make sure that tiles are not moving and that they are in order.
Once you're through with the grouting process, wipe the tiles using a wet sponge. Be careful as you clean the tiles to avoid messing up with the grout lines. Lastly, clean up any moist using a soft cloth once the grout dries up.
These simple steps should help you to install a glass tile backsplash with ease. If you follow the steps carefully, you will have your room looking beautiful after the remodeling. The important thing is to make sure that you use the right tools and be extra careful in each step.