The fact that a tile is made of glass doesn’t mean that a single procedure can be followed for every type of tile or installation.

Swimming pools and spas, for instance, have unique requirements. Glass tiles also fall under various types or categories, as a recent surge in new tile technologies has lead designers to adopt widely different production methods. The result: many unique types of tile, some with unique installation requirements.

The differences in tile, beyond size, thickness, and shape, include:

• Some are opaque or colored by a glaze applied to the back that’s designed to mask the adhesive.
• Some have an additional coating of an opaque material to cover any installation imperfections.
• Some colors are fired on, others are simply cold applied.
• The backing material on some tiles is porous, increasing their ability to adhere to standard mortars.
• Some have an additional coating of an opaque material to cover any installation imperfections.
• Some colors are fired on, others are simply cold applied.
• The backing material on some tiles is porous, increasing their ability to adhere to standard mortars.
• Some are made for skid and impact resistance that makes them a good choice for floors; others are wall tiles only.
• Some small mosaic tiles come mounted on mesh fabric backing [ see special instructions]; others are attached to a removable paper facing.

In fact, no installer can say with certainty that he is fully qualified and able to install all types of glass tile.

Fortunately, reputable manufacturers who introduce original tile types typically design, test, and clearly state-specific installation instructions that are appropriate for their tiles. In addition, manufacturers who begin to create lines of tiles within an established tile type need to pick the correct installation method to prescribe to their customers.

Most manufacturers will recommend products that they have had success with. Makers of adhesives and setting materials who indicate their products for glass tile also need to run them through comprehensive testing and sufficient real-world trials.

Finally, it’s up to the professional or do-it-yourself installer to read, understand, and follow the instructions for a particular glass tile product.

Aboutglasstile describes an installation process that is effective for many different types of tile. This method involves the use of a crack isolation membrane – an extra step and expense that is a good safeguard.