Laying & Spacing Glass Backsplash Tile

Prepare the surface for your backsplash. Use a screwdriver to remove any switch plates. Clean the wall and rub sandpaper over the entire backplash area. Wipe away the dust with a rag.

Multiply the width times the length of the area you need to cover with the backsplash to determine the number of tiles you will need, relative to the size of the tiles you are using. Order a few more tiles to account for mistakes, breakage and tiles you will need to cut.

Use a tape measure to find the center location for your backsplash. Mark the location and draw a straight line from top to bottom that is flush with your central location.

Lay out your tiles on the countertop in front of the backsplash. This will help you to determine if your tiles will fit evenly or if you will need to trim any of the tiles on the ends.

Mix your thinset. Use the manufacturer's instructions to get the right consistency. Use white thinset if the glass tiles are translucent; any other color can influence how the tile will look.

Apply a thin layer of thinset to the backsplash area with a straight-edged trowel, starting on the bottom portion of the backsplash area.

Place a glass tile at the bottom center location where you drew your line. Place a spacer to each side of the tile. Lay tiles flush against the countertop until you reach the end of the backsplash area, placing spacers in between each glass tile.

Continue to space your tiles on the wall. Work from the bottom to the top and from the center out to the side. Place spacers in between each tile to keep the spacing uniform. Add a small layer of thinset as you go so it doesn't dry before you install the tile. Add thinset directly to the tile if you are placing it near an outlet.

Cut any tiles that you need to maneuver around cabinetry, outlets or to fit in at the end. Use the diamond-abrasive blade from a wetsaw to cut one side of the tile. Repeat for as many sides as needed. Place the tiles in position on the backsplash.

Use a three-part epoxy grout to grout the tiles. Apply a layer of the grout to a rubber grout float, a tool that looks like a trowel but will not damage your glass tiles. Use long strokes to work the grout into the tile crevices. Let set for 15 minutes.

Wipe off any grout on the surface of the tiles with a wet rag.