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ritzrainbow

Glass subway tiles vs ceramic subway tiles for kitchen backsplash

10 years ago
For our kitchen backsplash I have been going back and forth between glass tiles and ceramic tiles. It would be really helpful if I can get some input on the pros and cons of each type of tile, especially from maintainence, looks and durability point of view.

Thanks much,

Comments (11)

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    I like glass tile I think it gives a bit of sparkle and they are just as easy to install as ceramic , I like them with a grout the same color

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    I would love to see the space that you are looking to tile. There are other materials as well. Glass has had its moment, in my opinion. I just did a thick real brick back splash because the kitchen was rustic. Ceramic or natural stone also work well depending on what else is going on in the ares.

  • 10 years ago
    Thanks Sandi. I am going for a contemporary look in the kitchen. I am personally not a big fan of rustic look so right now focused on either ceramic or glass tiles. The countertop is sparkly white and cabinets are in espresso shade. For glass tiles I picked up a sapphire blue shade. Still researching on ceramic tiles though. I'll put up some pictures soon. I was researching online and came across some concerns about glass tiles like they are not as easy to install as ceramic tiles. Even the contractor was saying that glass tiles look different and may not give you the look when actually installed. That's why I would like to know more from the community.
  • 10 years ago

    Your tile setter needs to know to use white thinset rather than gray, so that the color isn't changed, and I think that the grout has to be unsanded, but otherwise it's just about the same procedure. I'd pick the one you like!

    ritzrainbow thanked acm
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    You're safe with either product. Biggest cleaning concern would be your grout. Either you choose a standard grout that needs to be sealed or go epoxy that doesn't need to be sealed. I agree with ACM about using white thinset for installation, will not change the color of your glass tiles. DO NOT allow your installer to use mastic instead of thinset. If they use mastic there is a good chance the setting material will not cure properly and could change the color of your grout. -- this is for glass only.
    If you choose tile, any setting material can be used.

    ritzrainbow thanked Cinar Interiors, Inc.
  • PRO
    10 years ago

    The actual install regardless of adhesive is no different you need proper tools and an understanding of the tile you are installing both tiles can be daunting if you have never done it. I have installed both and really the difference is not much as far as actual install is concerned.

  • PRO
    10 years ago
    last modified: 10 years ago

    Don't be afraid of glass- but do rely of the thoughtful expertise of your personal professional installer (non-sanded grout, etc). Have you considered solid glass backpainted sheets? Very little grout- so easy to clean. We try to spec these on every project we can and our clients love them. Glass is actually very affordable and a good local glass guy can make this a great and simple process. Glass tile, we've found, is more expensive and more of a pain to get just right (sorry tile Pros- we love you everywhere else).

    Use Resilience Moisture Guard paint from Sherwin Williams, pick any color and have fun!

    Happy Backsplashing!

    isARK Studio

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    @isARK - Are your glass sheets ordinary tempered glass or a special type of glass? They look great...do they turn out to be less expensive than a glass tile backsplash?

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    Definately more expensive but they look awesome .

  • 10 years ago

    I agree that glass tiles are not as easy of an install as ceramic and can yield poor results if the installer isn't familiar with the different techniques and requirements for a professional job. Of course there are different versions of so called glass tiles and some are actually as easy as ceramic tiles to install.