This general installation recommendations below are only a guide. Each situation varies. Please consult a tile professional for more detailed specifications if possible.
Due to the handmade nature of many glass tiles, a slight variation in color and texture exists, giving each piece distinctive beauty. All material should be inspected prior to installation. We recommend pulling from all boxes during installation in order to minimize any dye lot differentials throughout your project.
Glass Tiles should be installed only over cured and stable substrates. It is highly recommended that a crack suppression membrane be used to prevent shrinkage or movement of the substrate. This is very important, as any movement of the substrate will cause cracking in the glass tile.
The unique properties of Sandhill Glass Tile make it a versatile surfacing material ideal for many purposes. Glass tile may be used for interior and exterior installations on both horizontal and vertical surfaces, in residential and commercial applications. Glass tiles can be substituted for ceramic and natural stone products in most applications. Our environmentally friendly glass tiles can withstand normal fluctuations in temperature and humidity, and may be used in heated areas including pools, saunas, and steam rooms. In addition, glass tiles are nonporous making them resistant to chemicals and other contaminants in exterior as well as interior applications. The tiles should not be subjected to thermal shock.
Use white thin-set mortar mixed with a liquid latex admixture.This setting material is readily available at any tile supply store. All materials should be used according to manufacturers directions. Please note: mastic is not an acceptable setting material for glass tile.
Then spread the adhesive on the substrate with a notched trowel following the manufactures recommendations. Back butter each piece of glass tile with the mortar to ensure a perfect bond to the mortar bed with no voids. This will also prevent trowel marks from being visible through the glass tile. Spacing: Leave even spacing between tiles when installing tiles . Tiles may be aligned with spacers to show uniform joints and then allowed to set until firm, at least 24 hours. Excess adhesive must be cleaned from the surface of the tile with a wet cloth or sponge while the adhesive is fresh. Remove excess setting material from the edges. Install expansion joints where tile abuts restraining surfaces and at the perimeter of the installation.
At last avoid abrasive cleaners or chemicals, which may permanently scratch or damage the glass surface. Products such as Windex, ammonia mixed with water or vinegar mixed with water are recommended.
