Yeah, it sounds like he's saying he or his tile guys are bad with glass, not that glass itself is so trying. You need the right tools, but from there it's straightforward. Have done them in kitchens at many price points.

Can you tell us a bit more? What size are the tiles? Are they subway tiles? Something else? Do you have photos of the area where they are to be placed? If they are subway tiles, any reputable tile sub-contractor should be able to do smooth cuts on glass. But glass tiles can be expensive and one has to account for breakage. So maybe this guy doesn't want to work with an expensive material he could get stuck with? Anyway, decent glass subway tile will probably start at about $35/sf retail. You might be able to find cheaper glass tile at Home Depot, but your color range will be limited, and they won't have the trim pieces you'll need.

Listen to acm and Beth H. At least your tile setter is telling you right up front that he nor his crew can install the backsplash correctly. Don't risk it. Get someone that is skilled in installing glass tile.

You all have expressed my thoughts. No helpful photos for you. It is gutted. Rough in inspections were this week They are going to start putting it back together next week.
I am thinking a Snow White glass subway tile with white grout. Pretty straight forward to me.
If they can’t assure a finished product without chips or splinters then I am thinking to get a credit and hire a tile setter that can meet expectations after the remodel is completed. Any suggestions on who that could be in orlando Florida?

lol. be careful w/your tile people down there. Fla is infamous for 'tile setters' who claim to know it all and do horrendous work. (case in point, the crew your manager has!) Do your due diligence and research the proper people. Check their license, yelp, prior customers,, whatever it takes. If you buy your tile from a reputable tile store, they have qualified people they can recommend. (at least they should). Do not get a reference from Home Depot. They use the absolute cheapest.

You might try looking here for someone. i got this from the JohnBridgeTileForum.

http://www.tile-assn.com

Perhaps you project manager could submit his company name and find a good tile setter to do the work. I'd still do my homework on him though.

be careful if you buy your glass tile at cheaper places such as Floor and Decor. their glass tiles have been known to have chipping/peeling issues.

remember, if you want a good job, you will have to spend money for good quality tiles and workmanship.

I’ve been looking and trying to compare quality of glass subway tiles. Is there a brand I should be hunting for? It doesn’t seem like price should be the driving force or is it?

IMO glass tile is glass tile really have not been able to see the difference as for installing I have installed glass tile for clients myself with maybe the odd tile chipping and that is usually me being in a hurry. I would however suggest you do not choose backspalsh untill all the rest of the kitchen is installed many things have an effect on color and the backsplash can be installed anytime.

There is difference in thickness and quality in glass choices. Yes, price correlates. A2-3K project like this is no place to cheap out with cheepchinesecrapola materials.

Quality of glass tile does vary as do the installation methods. A glass blade will not insure there is no chipping. Specific techniques are required. Your contractor or subs do not know them. Hire someone that does. First I would verify with the manufacturer as to the proper adhesive. Most require special thinset mortar and others require mastic. You don't want to use the wrong one or this could happen. (This pic always gets folks wondering especially those who install a lot of glass or those who provide advice to others on public forums:)

Some recommend epoxy grout while others won't allow it.

Some allow their glass to be installed over a impervious waterproof membrane. Others No.

Some may not be able to handle the thermal shock from hot water to a cold tile.

Glass is not installed next to a direct heat source.

There are many variables but I have made my point. Paper face mounted glass will provide the best final product.

You could try to locate a certified installer in your area. It will not guarantee you anything but it will increase your odds. (CTEF Ceramic Tile Education Foundation) Installers must pass an actual written and hands on test. Not just attend a seminar. You will need to inquire of glass experience. Use a local professional tile shop to protect yourself.