Installation Guide for Glass Tile
How to install glass mosaic tile that is face mounted on paper.
Tools Needed:
|
3 Buckets |
3/16" V Notched Trowel |
|
Dust Mask |
Grout Float |
|
2x4 that is 14" long |
1/16" Grout Spacers |
|
Putty Knife |
Old Rags and Sponges |
|
White Thinset Mortar |
Latex Additive |
Mix thinset to manufacturer's directions. Be sure to wear the dust mask. Latex additive is recommended for glass tile. It is not necessary if the thinset is latex modified.
Spread thinset on surface using the putty knife. Trowel throughout thinset using long straight strokes. Be sure to wipe excess thinset back into bucket.
Position first sheet PAPER SIDE OUT. Gently press the sheet down using a flat 2x4. This will ensure that all of the tiles touch the thinset.
Using 1/16" spacers place the next sheet beside the first. Press flat with the 2x4.
Continue to work in this manner until the first sheet has set for about 15 to 30 minutes (the thinset will start to harden). Take an old towel or sponge and wet the paper. You know it is ready when the paper turns a darker brown. Gently pull the paper against itself from every corner until it has completely released. If you pull straight out then you will probably pull off a tile or two.
Continue to install sheets and pull off paper until your surface is covered.
We recommend our wheeled cuttersfor cutting the tile around fixtures and corners. A tile saw will not cut our glass tiles.
After tiles have set for 24 hours, you will be ready to grout. Mix grout to manufacturer's specifications. Spread grout onto the tiles with a grout float using a back and forth motion in order to fill in all grout joints.
Wait about 10 minutes. Remove excess grout using paper towels or old rags. Then take a slightly damp sponge and start wiping the rest of the grout away. Once the grout is off of the top of the tiles, then use a stiff brush to buff the grout out of any pores.
After about an hour, use a clean cloth to buff off any haze that may form.
After grout has cured for several days, be sure to seal it with a high quality grout sealant. Sealant should be reapplied every year.
How to install glass mosaic tile that is face mounted on tile tape.
Follow the first set of instructions. However, you will need to wait until the thinset has completely cured to pull off the tile tape as it is very sticky.
How to install glass mosaic tile that is back mounted on mesh.
Follow the first set of instructions but apply the tiles with the mesh touching the thinset. There is nothing to remove from the front of the tiles so skip that step.
NOTICE: This information is offered as a guide only. There is no guarantee. Hire a professional installer who has experience working with glass mosaic tile.