How to Add a Glass Tile Border to White Subway Tiles

Prep Work

• 1

  Measure the length and height of area around the subway tiles to determine the amount of tile, mastic and grout needed. Multiply the length times the height to get the square footage. For this example, the length of the border is 12 feet and the height of the border will be 4 inches. Because the height of the border is not a foot, divide it by 12, which gives us 0.33 feet. Multiply: 12 feet x 0.33 feet = 4 square feet.

• 2

  Design the border. Home improvement stores and tile stores often have several displays that may provide inspiration. The small glass tiles are most often available in sheets, which makes them easier to install. You are not bound to the size of these sheets and can cut them down to the size you want.

• 3

  Purchase the tile, thinset and white grout. Glass tiles are somewhat opaque, so be sure you get white thinset and white grout. Any other color may alter the color of the glass tile. To account for any number of issues, get 10 percent more tile than you need, rounding up to the nearest full square foot. In this example, we should purchase 5 square feet of glass tile.

• 4

  Map out the design on the wall. Having a level row of subway tile to work from will make installing the border tile straightforward. Still, it is important to have the design plan penciled in on the wall to make the application of the thinset and tile go smoothly.

Installation

• 5

  Apply thinset to the wall using the flat side of a 3/16-by-1/4-inch V-notch trowel. Use the trowel to put more thinset on the wall, this time, using the V-notched side to create full notches going the same direction. Flatten the notches down to 1/8 inch using the flat side of the trowel.

• 6

  Cut the tile to size as necessary. In this example, we are using a partial sheet of mosaic tile, which requires cutting the webbing between the glass tiles to the correct height. Place the tiles on the wall, making sure they are level and evenly spaced. If the tile is backed in paper, apply the tile so the paper faces out. This is the front of the tile. If the wall is a color that contrasts with the thinset, apply a thin, even coat of thinset on the back of the glass tile to prevent the color from showing through.

• 7

  Tap the tile evenly, using a float, to ensure the tile is adhering to the wall.

• 8

  Repeat Steps 5 through 7 until the border is complete. If your tile was paper-backed, use a spray bottle to apply a mist of water and carefully remove the paper. Allow the thinset to cure for a minimum of 24 hours.

Applying Grout and Grout Sealer

• 9

  Mix grout powder and water with a drill and mixer attachment. You are looking for a consistency similar to toothpaste or peanut butter. Text the mix on the float; it should stick but still be wet.

• 10

  Apply the grout, using the float. Keep the float at a 45 degree angle to work it into the grooves between the tiles. Continue working until the spaces between the tiles have all been filled in with grout.

• 11

  Wipe the grout from the tiles using a clean, damp sponge. Let it set for a minimum of 24 hours.

• 12

  Apply grout sealer. Be sure to use either the brush or roller attachment on the grout lines only. Grout will absorb the sealer at first; continue to add sealer until it isn't soaking into the grout.

• 13

  Wipe any sealer that has gotten on the tiles. Allow it to cure thoroughly.