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Best Unsanded Grout for Glass Tile Backsplash

5 years ago

Hello,

For our kitchen backsplash, we plan to install 3" x 12" glass tiles. Any thoughts on which brand to go with for unsanded grout? I see names like Custom, Mapei, Laticrete, etc.

Also wondering if there are any recommendations for epoxy-based unsanded grouts.

Thanks,

James

Featured Answer

PRO

Creative Tile Eastern CT

5 years ago

last modified: 5 years ago

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.

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Comments (8)

James Lee
Original Author
5 years ago
Wow very good info. Didn't hear any of this from the sales rep, of course. Will definitely look into this more (especially thermal shock) and take care to hire someone who knows what they're doing. Appreciate the advice!
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1/8-inch backsplash tile joints: Sanded or unsanded grout?
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damiarain
5 years ago
What color are the tiles?
James Lee
Original Author
5 years ago
This is what we got:

https://www.flooranddecor.com/glass-decoratives/pearl-polished-glass-tile-100230218.html

Unlike the image, the actual color is a reflective white (pearl) with the glass adding a slight green hue.
GreenDesigns
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
The grout type is determined by the joint spacing, not tile type. With irregular seconds from an over stock place, you are going to need a pretty wide grout line. Which can not use unsanded grout. You need something like MAPEI FA.

And you need a great installer, with a wetsaw, with past experience with glass, and who knows this, and explains it to you. He will know to back comb, without you asking.
James Lee thanked GreenDesigns
PRO
Creative Tile Eastern CT
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
Find a qualified installer first. Inquire as to his/her preferred grout for glass and research it. Normally the grout joint determines grout. That water has been muddied by technology. In the past 1/8" was the changing point from unsanded to sanded grout. Even the Mapei FA mentioned above will go from 1/16" to 3/4" joint. The FA stands for fine aggregate. Yes some grout will be designed for tile type (glass). There is even glow in the dark grout. You may laugh but consider a commercial building during a power outage.

This link will help with questions to ask.

https://www.ceramictilefoundation.org/homeowners-guide-to-hiring-qualified-tile-installer

Do NOT assume any tile setter can install glass.
James Lee thanked Creative Tile Eastern CT
PRO
Creative Tile Eastern CT
5 years ago
Not recommending this product. Just presenting options available in the industry.

https://www.bostik.com/us/Bostik-products/dimension-rapidcure-urethane-glass-tile-grout
James Lee thanked Creative Tile Eastern CT
James Lee
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks for your tips, guys! I found a great installer with experience in installing glass tiles. He plans to use Laticrete Permacolor Select Non-Sanded

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