Glass Tile Backsplashes – So Many Choices

Where to begin? There are so many choices today of glass tile for your backsplash, where do you even begin? Let’s start with the breakdown of types of glass tile available.

Clear Glass mosaics – This was probably the first and most common glass tile for backsplashes. It is a simple 1″ x 1″ or 1″ x 2″ clear glass with the actual color paper adhered to the back of the tile to give it the vibrant color. This comes in both a 4mm and an 8mm thickness.

Recycled Glass – Eye-catching colors, rustic elegance and environmentally friendly recycled glass make recycled glass an exceptional choice! Due to the handmade character of this tile series, variations in shade, color and size within each sheet should be expected. Most recycled glass is comprised of between 30 and 70 percent glass from bottles and/or other waste glass that would otherwise have entered the solid waste stream. The most popular sizes are 1″ x 1″ and 1″ x 2″ brick.

Gem Stone Glass – Unique and exceptionally elegant, the color of gemstone glass mosaics are blended in while the glass is still in the molten state, so the colors will never fade away. Variations in color, swirl and shade are the characteristics of all gem stone glass mosaics. This series will come in an array of sizes from 5/8″ x 5/8″, 1″ x 1″ and even some 1″ x 2″ sizes.

Stained glass – There are 2 different types of stained glass to consider. First, there is the stained glass that is actualy made into sheet goods then cut to the different mosaic sizes which range from a 5/8″ x 5/8″ to a 2″ x 2″ and also available in small brick patterns that are normally 1/4″ x 2″ and the multi brick size that has 4- 6 different sizes on one sheet of mosaic. This type is normally recitified or more of a square, clean cut mosaic.

Second, is the type that is poured into a mold and then popped out for a tile. This type usually has more of an uneven texture which will give it its brilliance of color and variations of texture. This style normally comes in a 2″ x 2″ or 4″ x 4″ size. This style is normally NOT mesh mounted and there is more worked involved in the installation process.

Don’t get me wrong there is a lot more glass options available then what I described. In today’s emerging market the ideas and products are limitless. These are just a few of the more popular glass ideas that are seen and used on a day to day basis in most kitchen backsplashes across the United States.

The thing to do is to go into your project with an open mind and don’t get overwhelmed with the choices. Take your time, and enjoy the possibilities because no matter what glass you choose your backsplash will be stunning!