Glass Tile101: Cutting

Glass tile installation is basically like any other tile installation, with the exception of a few very important steps that must not be overlooked. Using the same tools as a conventional tile installer, with a few added steps, you can easily install your very own glass tile mosaic in the bathroom, kitchen or on your next arts and craft or home improvement project.

Substrate

One of the most important aspects of installing glass tile is providing the proper substrate. The surface underneath of glass tile must not only be clear and clean, it must also be free from any cracks or future cracks that may occur. Substrates like concrete, drywall or plywood are not sturdy enough to support the delicate glass tile. Cementious backerboard should be installed prior to installing glass tile to prevent future problems from cracks and splits.

Concrete slabs or walls need to be crack-free and well cured prior to installing glass tiles. An asphalt or cork flexible membrane may be applied to concrete to prevent future problems from occurring from expansion and contraction. This membrane is used in lieu of a thicker application of thinset mortar. Using organic mastics is not recommended as moisture in the mix doesn't evaporate and disperse in the tile like ceramics. This can cause mold and mildew to occur under the tile, causing some serious problems in the very near future.

Cutting

Cutting glass tiles can be a little tricky but if you're gentle enough, you can prevent breaking during the cut. For smaller glass tiles that are often used in mosaics, a simple glass cutting tool or glazer's knife and straightedge will easily cut glass tile quickly on location.

Larger glass tiles can be cut using a wet tile saw. Just like cutting conventional tiles, a wet tile saw uses a steel blade and water to grind its way through tiles without damage. When cutting glass tiles, the steel blade must be replaced with an electroplated diamond infused glass tile blade.

Curves and rounded cuts can be a little tougher to cut than straight cuts. Using a wet saw and tile nipper combination, curves can be carefully whittled at until they are cut as needed. This process can be tough to perfect, so practice first on a few scrap pieces until you're comfortable with cutting curves.

Drilling holes in glass tiles are more labor intensive than conventional tile hole drilling methods. Using a diamond tipped drill bit and a slow drilling speed; water must be constantly applied to prevent overheating which can instantly break fragile glass tiles.