The Pros and Cons of Glass Tile

Does the unique beauty of glass tile justify the higher price tag?

A modern green bathroom
Photo: fStop Images - Ludger Paffrath / Brand X Pictures / Getty Images
A modern green bathroom
Photo: fStop Images - Ludger Paffrath / Brand X Pictures / Getty Images
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.

Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

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

Nice bathtub in a bathroom
Photo: Wirestock / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

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.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to ceramic tile services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A senior man grouting tiles on a wall
Jan 21, 2025
Jan 21, 2025
Sealing your grout goes a long way toward extending its life span. This guide breaks down the cost factors for sealing grout, including size, materials, and labor.
White hexagon tile floor in the bathroom
Jan 15, 2025
Jan 15, 2025
You're planning a bathroom remodel, but how much will it cost to retile your bathroom? Read this guide to find out.
Mother and son having fun at bath time
Jan 10, 2025
Jan 10, 2025
Damaged tiles should be fixed right away. In this guide, find out all of the different factors that affect your tile repair cost.
Couple laying tile floor
Aug 27, 2024
Aug 27, 2024
Choosing between different types of tile adhesive is an important part of any tile job. Here’s how to pick the best tile glue for your project.
An elegant man selecting bathroom tiles for his home
Aug 28, 2024
Aug 28, 2024
Porcelain and ceramic tiles aren’t exactly the same. Discover the key differences between porcelain versus ceramic tile, including cost, durability, and more.
Black and white subway tiled kitchen
Aug 26, 2024
Aug 26, 2024
Learn about the seven types of grout so that you can choose the right one when installing tiles on any wall or floor in your home.
Share project details to get started.