Glass tile can transform a space into something truly unique. With such uniqueness, however, comes complex installations and tricks of the trade that often elude most homeowners. That's exactly why we're breaking down our comprehensive training: Glass Tile 101.
Glass is not always associated with durability, but in truth, glass tile can be just as strong and long-lasting as ceramic tile. By nature, glass tile retains certain properties that make it more resilient than ceramic tile. Glass tile is also a versatile material, and thanks to the wide range of colors, opacities, and finishes available, it can add a unique sense of eclectism to designs. Glass tile backsplashes may be where most people are most accustomed to seeing this material, but glass tile has many options for other applications.
Glass tiles come in various forms and colors, depending on the process used to create them. Some tiles are cut and cold-cooled, while others are melted, cast, and cooled. The result can vary by color, texture, thickness, size, shape, and application. The varieties of glass tile allow for endless customization options, and its versatility opens the door to indoor and outdoor projects alike.
Cast Glass Tile:
Fused Glass Tile:
Low Temperature-Coated Glass Tiles:
Sintered Glass Tile:
Stained Glass Tile:
Glass tiles are divided into sub-categories, usually by size. However, most companies will only advertise this if it's a design feature.
Miniature Mosaics – glass tile mosaics smaller than ¾" x ¾", sometimes labeled micro or mini
Mosaics - glass tile mosaics between ¾” x ¾” and smaller than 3” x 3”
Large Format - glass tile mosaics or glass tiles typically larger than 3" x 3"
The size of the tile may dictate design, but the size of the sheet it's assembled on is equally important. Some very simple mosaics that fit easily into a rectangle or square may be equivalent to 1 square foot (about 12" x12") in size. These are the easiest ways to calculate how much to order and the price for clients. More intricate or decorative mosaics with unique patterns usually do not have a perfect square or rectangle. They generally are in shapes that fit together – like a puzzle piece – to avoid seeing the seams where all the sheets were assembled.
If you are installing your glass tile in a location other than an interior drywall, always check with the manufacturer for acceptable application use. Glass tile has many characteristics that determine whether it is suitable for your project requirements. This is the most important nuance to learn. Read on to learn why.
Thermal Shock: Glass is more sensitive to temperature changes. Thermal Shock - ANSI A137.2 requires thermal shock resistance testing using a 100°F temperature range and passing the test is mandatory for all glass tiles except those intended for dry interior wall applications. Unlike ceramic, not all glass tiles in the market can withstand the range of temperatures outdoors. Always confirm with the manufacturer before using glass tile in exterior applications, kitchens, fireplaces or other areas where rapid temperature changes might occur.
Opacity:Glass tiles are produced in a wide array of opacities, from opaque to transparent. The extent to which you can see through a tile is important when selecting installation materials and even how the tile is installed. Whether to use white or gray mortar and smooth out the trowel lines relates directly to the tile opacity.
Characteristic or Defect: Inherent properties such as folds, creases, and bubbles can result from casting, which many consider to add to the beauty and individuality of cast glass tiles. ANSI A137.2 establishes the appropriate aesthetic attributes and defects. For example, if a cast glass tile has a bubble inside the body, the bubble is classified as a beauty mark, but if that tile has a bubble on the surface that creates a sharp edge or crater, the bubble is classified as a defect.
The aesthetic criteria, though, for fused and low-temperature-coated products are different from those of cast glass tiles. Greater uniformity is more easily achieved for fused and low-temperature-coated products, and the aesthetic criteria reflect that.
Matte Surfaces: Sintered glass with a matte surface, or any matte glass in general, may show dirt more and be more difficult to clean. Sintered glass may require denatured alcohol to remove difficult stains.
Mounted Tiles:Since glass tiles are generally sold and installed as mounted assemblies, whether they are back-mounted or face-mounted products is an important aspect to consider. ANSI A137.2 recommends that glass tiles intended for submerged applications be face-mounted to prevent problems stemming from improper coverage or backing material failure. This is also true for steam showers.
Some information in Glass Tile Nuances sourced from "Introducing ANSI A137.2 – The New Standard for Glass Tile," by Ryan Marino
From a design perspective, glass mosaic tiles provide wonderful opportunities to play with color, whether subdued neutrals or bold brights. Whether translucent or opaque, they catch and reflect light to brighten up a space and marry well with other natural surfaces, including stone, ceramic, and wood. They also show off plenty of special effects, from "hammered" metallic to matte sea glass to textural treatments that mimic variegated stone or woven fabric.
Want curves, whisper-thin details, and elaborate patterns? These can be achieved with waterjet mosaics or by hand. Glass tile is a specialty in and of itself, but there are many special things about glass tile on the market today.
The way glass tile is cut is actually part of the design!
Glass tile is found in many specialty collections. Here are just a few ways they stand out:
GENERAL TIPS
CLEANING
Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a nonabrasive cleaner to keep glass gleaming. With cementitious grout, avoid acid-based cleansers, including distilled white vinegar, which can weaken it. The mineral buildup may necessitate more frequent cleaning in areas like the shower.
ARCHITESSA RESOURCES
For more information on the installation and care of glass tile, see the comprehensive Care & Maintenance, glass tile installation, and case studies below.