Fewer accessories stand out from your kitchen than a glass splashback. Made from mirrored glass, these functional and aesthetic accessories help protect your kitchen while adding a contemporary look to your kitchen decor. But what if you want to switch up your kitchen’s interior design with tiles?
You can apply tiles over glass splashback as long use you prepare the surface well. Clean the glass surface thoroughly with soap, then dry and wipe it with methylated spirit before application. However, removing the splashback before tile installation will ensure the tiles last longer.
Splashback tiles come in a wide range of designs and colors for added aesthetics. The wide range of options allows you to match your interior decor or mix and match the tile to create a contrasting palette. Here’s how to cover your glass backsplash with tiles.
Can You Add Tiles on Top of a Glass Splashback?
Yes, installing tiles over your glass splashback is possible with the right tools and ample preparation. Laying tile on your glass splashback adds the aesthetic appeal of your decor and transforms the seemingly mundane glass into a work of art.
The kitchen allows you to hone your culinary skills and explore different cuisines. However, cooking is often a messy affair that involves accidental splashes and spills.
Luckily, ceramic backsplash tiles (on Amazon) are easy to clean and stain-resistant.
What are the Benefits of Removing the Splashback First?
Whether to remove the glass splashback when applying tiles depends on various factors, including time, budget, and homeownership status. If you aren’t living in a rental and have ample time, consider removing the splashback before applying tiles.
Consider removing the plasterboard with the splashback; then, you can replaster the wall and apply your new tiles.
Although this approach may take time, it ensures the tiles adhere well to the wall and last longer. You can also break the glass splashback and apply tiles over rough plaster to save time.
Materials You’ll Need to Get Started
Any DIY home improvement project requires the right tools. To successfully apply tiles over a glass surface, you’ll need the following:
- Tiles
- Medium-grit sandpaper or sander
- Tile grout
- Tile grout trowel
- Flat trowel
- Tile spacers
- Level
- Grout sealer
- Safety glasses
Consult the experts while purchasing tile to confirm the right grout type for adhering to the glass and tools you need.
Wear protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves when working with glass.
How to Apply Tiles Over a Splashback
Applying tiles on glass can significantly affect your kitchen’s functionality and appearance. First, clean the glass splashback well with soap and water, rinse, dry it completely, and then wipe the surface using methylated spirit.
After drying, follow the simple steps below:
- Assembling your materials and priming the glass surface are the first steps in this DIY project.
- Next, put down a drop cloth and lay out the tile, grout, and necessary tools.
- Sand the glass with medium-grit sandpaper (on Amazon) or an electric sander to prepare it for priming. Avoid applying too much force when using an electric sander since this could crack the glass. Sandpaper and hand sanding is your best bet if you’re inexperienced in sanding glass.
- Use a trowel to spread a thick layer of grout on the glass in the spot where the tile will go. To create a rough surface, ensure there are lines in the grout and smooth out any bumps with the trowel.
- Place spacers between the squares of the first row of tiles if you use individual tiles. If you’re using small mesh-backed tiles, then spacers are unnecessary.
- Once you’ve finished the first row, adjust the level, so all tiles have the same height. If the tiles aren’t straight, you should take them off and shim the area with a thin plank of wood.
- Most glass is cut to precise proportions, so your tiles won’t need any leveling before installation. If not, start afresh while the grout is still wet and remove the tiles.
- Repeat step 3 above for each successive row of tiles. If the second and third rows are level, it’s safe to assume the rest of the rows will be as well. This will shorten the remaining process by one simple step. If any grout escapes between the tiles, wipe it off with a moist sponge or rag.
- Use a flat trowel to apply a thin grout layer to all the tiled surfaces. The grout you use can be a contrasting color or clear.
- Next, use a wet rag to remove the excess grout from the tiles’ surface. Whatever is left will dry between the tiles, forming a seal that safeguards the surface and the tiles themselves.
- Wait approximately 24 hours, then apply a grout sealer for maximum protection.