Glass Tiles 101
GLASS TILE
The first thing you need to know about glass tile, is that it is beautiful, and an excellent tool to add design and light to a space. There are three different basic types of glass tile: Cast glass, Fused glass, and Coated glass.
HOW IT’S MADE
Let’s break it down by the type of glass tiles:
Cast Glass is formed in a liquid state at least 1600 degrees farenheit or higher. Cast glass tends to have a slight wave or texture to its surface, and has the color and design throughout the depth of the tile.
Fused Glass is generally produced by using heat to alter sheet glass. During the process different glazes and other products are added to create the desired design. This process allows for a finished product with a smooth or textured surface.
Coated Glass is also made from sheet glass, but it has been altered at a low temperature. The other difference is that this type of glass displays its design on the back of a transparent glass, so the design is essentially viewed through glass.
APPLICATIONS
While glass applications can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, pools, and more; there are a few things to consider:
Glass tiles are sensitive to thermal shock.
Glass tiles are more flexible than porcelain or ceramic, which means this needs to be taken into account with installation.
They need to be applied with the proper materials to assure correct bondage. We always recommend using a licensed and bonded tile setter.