skip to main content

Do I have to grout a glass tile backsplash?

16 years ago

Hi Everyone. I just finished installing a glass tile mosiac backsplash (my first time!). The lighting looks so nice reflecting through the tile, I don't want to grout it! The grout will not allow the light to shine through the sides and the top of the tile. Do I HAVE to grout a backsplash?

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

pbrisjar
16 years ago
Yup. This was discussed a few weeks ago.

Here is a link that might be useful: Here's the thread.
0
dalcolli
16 years ago
ritalon, I would like to learn how to do the glass mosaic backsplash as well - care to share any pictures? Also, could you suggest any good resources for learning how?

How close together are your tiles? Doesn't it look weird to see in between them? A local building supply place had a kitchen display with the glass but had not grouted and I thought it looked unfinished, though maybe their tiles were further apart.

In any case, the thread pbrisjar linked has a good design inspiration link in it.
0
Related Discussions
glass tile backsplash with no grout lines
Q
Comments (2)
Why do you not want any grout lines? You could put them close together but even if you do I believe you would need to grout maybe with unsanded grout to fill in any little openings... you definitely do not want moisture to get in behind your tiles. If you do put them right to the wall you will need to prep the wall. Score it really good so the adhesive will grab. And, use thinset so they will adhere. You can't go wrong with thinset.
...See More
Best Unsanded Grout for Glass Tile Backsplash
Q
Comments (8)
Many glass manufacturers do not allow the use of epoxy grout with their product. You must contact the manufacturer for this information. If there are no instructions in the box also inquire as to which setting material is called for. Some glass may require mastic instead of mortar. While you have them on the line ask about thermal shock rating. You have a large format glass tile (9 square inches is large format for glass) If you have a cook top, especially gas simply boiling a pot of water on the back burner could crack the glass tiles due to thermal expansion. Just a few things the DIY shows and box stores won't mention. Was any of this mentioned to you at your point of purchase? Always test grout first to verify it will not scratch the glass. Other grout manufacturers such as Ardex, Bostik, Tec should be considered also. Some make grout specifically for glass. I do not recommend glass tile installation for a DIY'er. or a GC/ remodeler. There is a lot more to it that I did not mention. Proper cutting, setting, polishing etc. If you think hiring a professional is expensive wait until you see the cost of hiring a amateur. Good luck with your project.
...See More
HELP - Grout looks weird on glass tile backsplash
Q
Comments (5)
It's hard to see from your photos the color issue you are having. If the grout job was sloppy, you should contact the installer for a warranty claim on the work. Did you discuss the type and color of grout with the installer prior to the work being done? We recently had a large tile job done, and we were given the opportunity to select the type and color of grout ahead of installation. I've researched before the possibility of putting new grout over old in a fireplace brick area, but I would think that would be harder to do on a backsplash where you don't have much if any extra room for a new layer of grout. Glass tile is a product all its own that requires special handling during installation, so it could be the installer may not have been familiar with the special requirements of glass tile.
...See More
DIY Grouting Glass Tile Backsplash
Q
Comments (2)
Once you touch it you own it. 4x16 is a large tile for a backsplash. If you have a cooktop be aware simply boiling a pot of water on the back burner can crack the glass due to thermal shock but I'm sure whomever sold you the glass warned you:)
...See More
ritalon
Original Author
16 years ago
The tiles are 1" and are meshed together in 1 sqft sections. They are about 3/16" apart, and yes, it does look a little unfinished with out the grout. I bought Linen colored grout and will break down and do it today.

I learned how to do this tile job by watching the links on the "This old House" website. I googled "how to install glass tiles" I think.... And it's easier than you would think with the glass tiles. You simply snip off the tiles that go around the outlets. I bought "jumbo" size outlet/receptical covers so I didn't need to make any cuts to the tiles. It looks great!

As a first timer piece of advice, I used WAY too much thin set on my first try. I started oozing through the tiles! You really only need a very thin coating of it and the tiles will stick.

Thanks for the feedback. I'll attach pictures of before and after grout today.
0
sw_in_austin
16 years ago
The glass tile in our bathroom (a mix of light green and bronze tiles, both iridescent and non) were grouted with light gray grout and still looked great after. The grout doesn't detract from the tile and they still look all shiny and glassy and reflecty.
0

Related Stories

REMODELING GUIDES 9 Ways Grout–Yes, Grout–Can Add to Your Design

Choose From a Palette of Grout Colors for a Warm, Unified Look

KITCHEN DESIGN Subway Tile Picks Up Gray Grout

By Living Small: City & Small Space Consulting

Heading into darker territory, subway tile offers a graphic new look for kitchens, bathrooms and more

BATHROOM DESIGN Convert Your Tub Space Into a Shower — the Tiling and Grouting Phase

By By Any Design Ltd.

Step 3 in swapping your tub for a sleek new shower: Pick the right tile and test it out, then choose your grout color and type

TILE Epoxy vs. Cement Grout — What's the Difference?

By By Any Design Ltd.

Grout is grout, right? Nope. Cement and epoxy versions have different appearances, durability and rules of installation

TILE 3 Key Steps for Grouting That Looks Its Best

By By Any Design Ltd.

Get your grout right to keep your tile beautiful and for an installation that will last

BATHROOM TILE Quick Fix: Repair Cracked Bathroom Grout

Banish an eyesore and safeguard your bathroom from water damage in 30 minutes or less with this DIY repair

HOUSEKEEPING How to Clean Grout — Stains and All

If your grout is grossing you out, this deep-cleaning method will help it look new again

KITCHEN DESIGN 5 Stunning Alternatives to the Tile Backsplash

By KitchenLab Interiors

Try Stone Slab, Glass, Steel, Concrete or Beadboard Above the Kitchen Counter

KITCHEN DESIGN The Future of Backsplashes

Grout is out. Continuous sheets of glass, stone, metal and porcelain are saving cleaning time and offering more looks than ever

KITCHEN DESIGN 8 Top Tile Types for Your Kitchen Backsplash

By The Inman Company

Backsplash designs don't have to be set in stone; glass, mirror and mosaic tiles can create kitchen beauty in a range of styles

Sponsored

Buckeye Carpentry & Renovations

Industry Leading General Contractors in Pickerington

More Discussions

How would you change this layout for a bigger kitchen?

2

help with backsplash!

7

Cashmere taj countertops

2

Recommendations on a Fireclay farmhouse apron front sink, white.

3

Where to end backsplash tile-floating shelves?

0