Subway Chic

A wall of tile makes a sleek statement.

Glass mosaic squares add a trendy splash, while white subway tiles keep the design clean and contemporary. Combining glass with affordable ceramic allows for a budget-friendly update with an upscale feel. Floating black shelves offer storage, and undermount lights illuminate the glass tiles.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start with a clean surface that has been primed and painted in your desired color. To showcase the natural beauty of the green, glass tiles we painted our backsplash white. To determine the amount of tile you will need to cover the area, multiply the width by the height.

Using a level as a guide, draw a plumb line at the point where you want the backsplash to begin.

Use scissors to cut the glass tile sheets to your desired size.

If necessary, use a tile cutter to trim the subway tiles for end pieces.

Apply a generous amount of tile adhesive to the wall, and begin attaching the tiles in your desired pattern. To keep within our budget, we chose to alternate inexpensive subway tiles with the glass ones. Add spacers as you work to create even grout lines. Attach the glass tiles in the same manner.

Use a rubber grout float to apply a thin layer of epoxy grout to the surface.

Clean excess grout using a wet sponge and water.

When the tiles are in place, apply a thin strip of caulk at the base of the backsplash. Smooth the caulk line by running a wet fingertip over the caulk.

When all the tiles are in place and the gaps have been caulked, clean the surface thoroughly with a sponge and water. Allow the tile to set completely.

Good To Know
Glass tile reflects the color behind it, so use white thin-set mortar and white unsanded epoxy grout, which will avoid changing the color of the tile.

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Lowe’s List

Skill level: Intermediate

Rough cost estimate: $300* (for a 6- x 5-foot backsplash)

Rough time estimate: 2 days**

ceramic tiles (3- x 6-inch, white, #64396, #239378)
glass mosaic tiles (2- x 2-inch, American Olean, Glacier Mist, Special Order)
thin-set mortar (white, #255417; #43954)
white epoxy grout
caulk (white, #39134)

*Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.
**Does not include lead time for Special Order materials.