The Pros and Cons of Glass Tile
Does the unique beauty of glass tile justify the higher price tag?
Highlights
Glass tile reflects the light in a room.
It’s waterproof and easy to clean.
Glass tile tends to be more expensive than porcelain or ceramic.
Professional installation is recommended.
Selecting the right tile for your home is an important decision. In addition to ceramic and porcelain, homeowners often choose glass tile. It’s an elegant option, but there are pros and cons of glass tile to consider. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Glass Tile?
There are several different ways to make glass tiles; some come with a coating on the back to help hide the adhesive used during installation. Glass tiles come in a range of shapes, thicknesses, colors, and even transparencies, allowing you to create a one-of-a-kind look. You can use glass tile in almost any area, including showers, backsplashes, and swimming pools. But because glass can be slippery and can crack when walked on if it’s not installed correctly, it’s not always the best tile for the bathroom floor or other floors in your home.
Pros of Installing Glass Tile
Glass tiles make beautiful shower walls, backsplashes, and even fireplaces. Check out the many advantages glass tiles offer.
Light Reflecting
Glass tiles reflect the light in a room. This can create a subtle shimmering effect while also making a space feel brighter and larger. Choosing glass tiles can help transform a dark, small kitchen or bathroom.
Waterproof
Glass is completely waterproof and resistant to mold, making it a great shower tile. It’s also easy to clean: All you need is warm water and gentle soap or a mild all-purpose cleaner.
Eco-Friendly
Glass tiles are completely recyclable, and many are made from recycled materials. Glass tiles also use much less energy during production than other tile options.
Cons of Installing Glass Tile
There are some downsides to installing glass tile.
Higher Cost
The tile installation cost of glass tiles is higher than most other types of tile. The tiles themselves are more expensive, and so is the labor. On average, installing glass tile costs $5 to $15 per square foot.
Often Requires Professional Installation
Laying glass tile usually isn't a DIY project. Finding a reputable tile contractor near you will ensure the job is done right; otherwise, you run the risk of your glass tiles cracking. In addition, many glass tiles are transparent, so you need a professional who understands the perfect amount of adhesive to use so the tiles stick but the adhesive isn't visible.
Easily Scratched
You could unknowingly scratch your glass tile if you aren't careful when cleaning it. This happens most often when using abrasive cleaners not meant for glass tile.
What’s Better: Glass, Ceramic, or Porcelain Tile?
Choosing glass, ceramic, or porcelain tile is a big decision. Since glass tile flooring isn’t usually an option, you can narrow your choices down to porcelain or ceramic tile flooring.
However, if you're installing a backsplash or shower, keep in mind that only glass is completely waterproof, making it impervious to moisture and spills.
Porcelain tile is scratch-resistant and comes in many shapes, sizes, and styles. Unlike glass, installing porcelain tile can be a relatively easy DIY project.
Ceramic tile is a classic, durable choice for many areas of your home and is often more cost-effective than porcelain or glass. Ceramic tiles cost $0.50 to $7 per square foot, while porcelain tiles cost $3 to $15 per square foot.