Kitchen
Tile Backsplash
As far as looks and appeal goes, we
really like the glass kitchen tile backsplash, and the ceramic
backsplashes. Marble
tiles are good too, but, in our opinion not worth the extra price
tag.
Both
ceramic and glass tiles are great inexpensive ways to give your
old, boring kitchen a much needed face lift.
Also, both the glass kitchen
backsplash tile and the ceramic tile require low maintenance,
and are very easy to clean.
What’s the
Difference Between Glass and Ceramic?
There are
actually quite a few differences between a glass tile kitchen
backsplash and a ceramic backsplash tile. Below is a list of benefits of
both glass and ceramic tile backsplashes:
Ceramic Tile
Benefits:
ð
Great finish and
aesthetic appeal
ð
Superior
durability
ð
Most
economical
ð
Reduces allergies
and improves quality of air
Glass Tile
Benefits:
ð
Quick and easy to
install
ð
Adds a great
unique look
ð
Stain
resistant
ð
Hygienic and easy
to clean
Here are some pictures of quality
ceramic tile kitchen backsplashes:
Here are some pictures of great
looking glass tile kitchen backsplashes:
Your Backsplash Project
You must figure out a few things
before you start your project. For example, are you completely
remodeling your kitchen, or just touching it up to add a little
flare?
Do you plan on changing any of
your fixtures in the near future? How about painting your walls, or
adding new flooring?
What type of surface are you dealing with?
Have you decided on what type of
look you’re going for?
Classic mosaic?
Innovative mural? It
is of the utmost importance that you know the answers to these
questions to avoid headaches, and overspending in the
future.
For instance, ceramic tiles
require a flat, smooth surface, so if you have a really rough
surface, ceramic tile is not a good long term
solution.
In this case, installing a glass tile would be a better
solution because glass tiles don’t require a flat, smooth
surface.
Installing My Kitchen Tile
Backsplash
Everyone is always trying to find
ways to cut costs.
This is especially true when it comes to home
projects. Most
people gravitate towards the self installation side to save
some extra costs that come with purchasing a kitchen tile
backsplash.
This is exactly why we have
included some general installation tips to help you install your
backsplash.
-
Turn off all power to the area, and
also remove any electrical outlet covers.
-
Wash the surface with warm water and
let it air dry.
-
Use a notched trowel to spread a
thin 3' x 3' layer of the tile adhesive about 1/16" thick at the
center base of the backsplash.
-
Place the first tile at the center
base of the backsplash. Make sure to use a level to check your
work.
-
Put spacers on each corner. To
correctly space all base tiles, you'll need to cut the bottom off
of the spacer so it fits next to the countertop.
-
Add tiles flush against the spacers,
working in 3' x 3' squares of adhesive.
-
To cut tiles, use a tile cutter to
mark the tiles, and then use a tile saw to carefully cut the tile
into the desired shape and size.
-
Use a damp cloth to wipe away any
extra adhesive.
-
Mix the grout according to the
instructions.
-
Use a rubber float to apply the
grout between the tiles.
-
Wipe off any excess grout with a
damp cloth.
-
Use a rounded stick to shape the
grout joints.
-
Wipe off any excess grout with a
damp cloth.
-
When the grout dries, use a clean
cloth to wipe and dry the tiles.
-
Replace any electrical outlet
covers.
-
Keep in mind you'll likely need
longer screws to fit them over the new tile.
Important Note: If you’re
installing glass tiles, you must use a latex modified thin set in
order to properly bond to the substrate. You cannot use ceramic tile
mastic, it simply won’t work.
Although installing your kitchen
backsplash yourself can save you some money, we still encourage you
to hire a professional. This will save you loads of time,
and give your kitchen a real professional look.
Questions You Must Ask Before Paying For
Professional Installation:
-
What type of credentials do they
have?
-
What kind of references do they
have?
-
How long have they have been in
business?
- Are they
members of the Better Business Bureau?
-
How competently do they answer
basic questions?
Do they really know what they’re talking
about?
-
Do they offer any type of
warranty and guaranty with their
service?
-
What type of quote do they give
you including material cost? How do they justify the
price?
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