Installing Large Format Glass Tile - I AM CURRENTLY REMODELING MY KITCHEN AND AM INTERESTED IN INSTALLING A GLASS TILE BACKSPLASH. THE TILE REP THAT I AM WORKING WITH MENTIONED THAT THERE IS AN INDUSTRY WARNING ABOUT THE LARGER SUBWAY SIZE GLASS TILE CRACKING. ARE YOU AWARE OF THIS AND WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMMEND?
ANSWER - I'm not sure what you mean by larger subway size glass tile unless you are referring to the size of porcelain safety tiles used in subways that are about 12x12 inches, which is what I will assume.
There isn't any specific warning in installing larger sized glass tiles on various applications. There are different types of glass tiles e.g. cast glass tile, fused glass tiles, and low-temperature-coated glass tiles. that have different properties.
Glass tiles are more susceptible to cracking under various conditions, but if they are used and installed properly, and not subjected to abuse they will perform well. Make sure the wall doesn't have excessive deflection, make sure the tile is installed correctly per industry requirements and adhesive manufacturer's directions, and that it isn't subjected to excessive temperature fluctuations. T
o ensure your tile installer knows and understands the industry standards and installation methods, make sure they are ITS Verified through UofCTS. It is an online course that teaches them the standards and installation methods and verifies they understand what they learned, which they have to take annually to keep up with the standards. Go to http://uofcts.org/online-courses/titc-certified/ for details. Good luck.
Updated: April 25th 2012
