Super flat wall preparation from the studs out, $$$$$$$ and silicone are the keys.

I did a flat glass backsplash, and I love it. For me, it wasn't very expensive, maybe because my kitchen already required taking the drywall down to the studs. The glass and installation ended up being about $500, roughly 50 sq. ft.

The GC told me that they needed to be super careful with the installation because if you use glue or silicone it usually shows through. It's somehow self-supporting, so it had to be a perfect fit.

When I first suggested this, I didn't know it was uncommon. I think I was lucky that my GC had done it before and was quite comfortable with the prep and installation.

Now that I know what is actually required, I'm very glad that my GC instinctively knew what to do. I can see how it could go poorly with a less skilled/experienced contractor.

How many square feet did you use?

Mine was not $$$$ and it's Starphire, it's not big but I easily could have spent more on tile.

Mine is only siliconed at the top edge and down the side edges (on the outside, not between the back wall and the glass). It is essentially friction fit. It's such a close fit that the first one cracked trying it in and the second one cracked in one corner very soon after installation. I am living with that crack, which has not changed in 6 years or so, and it's behind the microwave, so no biggie. Part of the issue might also be that my wall underneath is not superflat, it bows slightly.

Anyone want to share pics of what they did? Please.

Thanks.

Thank you all for your help. Still would like to see some home installation pictures.

Someone just asked about this in a recent thread.

Here is a link that might be useful: Link to pictures