How to Install Backsplash Glass Tile With Mesh Backing

Glass tiles often have a mesh backing to make tile instillation easier and uniform. The tiles come in sheets in a variety of sizes and are also available in patterns to add interest to your backsplash. While the mesh backed sheets install much like regular tile, there are some extra steps you need to take to ensure proper adhesion to your wall.

Latex modified adhesive for use with glass tiles in the same shade as your grout
3/16-inch V-notched trowel
Grout float
Grout
Lint free cloth
Sponge

Instructions

- 1
  Spread a thin coat of thinset on your wall with the notched end of your trowel. Work in small areas at a time, as the thinset can dry after 15 to 20 minutes. Use the flat side of the trowel to smooth the ridges on the thinset.
- 2
  Spread a thin coat of thinset onto the back of the tile sheet using the flat side of the trowel. This is called back buttering and will help the glass tile to adhere well and will hide the trowel lines from showing through translucent tile.
- 3
  Press the tile sheet onto the wall and push the tile onto the wall with a grout float. Continue applying thinset to the wall and tile sheets until your backsplash is complete. Make sure to line the grout lines and edges of the tiles up with the surrounding tile sheets.
- 4
  Let the thinset cure according to manufacturer’s directions.
- 5
  Mix your grout according to the directions on the package. Hold the grout float at a 45 degree angle and press the gout into the grout lines.
- 6
  Let the grout sit for at least 20 minutes.
- 7
  Use a lint free cloth to wipe the grout from the face of the tiles. Dampen a sponge and clean the remaining residue from the tiles.

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