How Glass Tile Is Made

Posted on August 2, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

Glass tile production is an incredibly innovative and sustainable manufacturing process that can incorporate a large amount of recycled glass. Though each tile color, style, and shape is created using a slightly different process, all of the tiles we sell here at Glass Tile Warehouse are put through a kiln firing process that results in a beautiful, colorful tile that will never chip or fade. Here are some insights into how our tiles are made:

The Materials

Only glass that is free of contaminants (dirt, paper, etc.) can be used to make glass tiles, and the material used must be the same color and consistency. Post-consumer content such as jars, bottles, windows, or broken glass may be employed, but the glass materials must be sorted before they can be used. Sometimes different colored glass is used in the same tile to create interesting patterns or even images.

The Process

There are two basic techniques for creating a glass tile:

  • Molten Tile Method

In this process, glass and color is heated to an extremely high temperature until it reaches a molten liquid state. In this state, the glass can be poured and pressed into tile shapes using a cookie cutter-like tool to create small mosaic tiles. The tiles are then cooled, with larger tiles requiring a period of time in an annealing oven to reduce stress and promote hardness.

The final product with the molten method generally leaves some variability in color and texture in each of the tiles, which is generally the result that is wanted. If a more uniform tile is desired, color and quality control experts oversee each tile to ensure that it meets specifications.

One of the advantages to this method is that there is relatively little waste material left over.

  • Molded Tile Method

With this method, uniform pieces of glass are placed into ceramic molds and then heated to lower temperature than the molten method. The pieces are fused together by the heat, and the process is followed by annealing to ensure strength. One of the disadvantages to this method is that one cannot add color directly to the glass.

Once this process is completed a number of different finishes can be placed on the tile:

Glass Tiles - Gloss Finished Product

At Glass Tile Warehouse, each of our tiles are made with keen attention to detail that results in an incredibly high quality glass tile that will last. Visit http://www.glasstilewarehouse.com to get started on your custom order.

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5 Kitchen Styles of the United States

Posted on July 19, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

Following our post about different bathroom styles that are found throughout the country, we wanted to do something similar for those looking to remodel the kitchen. Kitchen designs are many and varied—you can match any home’s décor and create a cooking retreat that will bring your whole family together.

An element that will make a statement in any kitchen is glass tile. Since it is available in such a wide variety of shapes, colors, and finishes, we’ll show you how any kitchen can be enhanced by adding any of our glass mosaic tiles.

Traditional Kitchens

Traditional Kitchen Backsplash

The traditional kitchen style is seen in homes across the United States, and for good reason. This style is all about the old saying “the kitchen is the heart of the home.” Traditional style brings together the best of the elegant look of European and American kitchens in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries as well as a few modern innovations.

Classic stylishness dominates the traditional kitchen with open layouts and natural lighting. Typical features include crown molding, subtle ornamentation on trim and cabinets, neutral tones balanced with splashes of bold color, wood, stone, glass, and other natural materials, and antique fixtures.

Country Kitchens

Country Kitchen Wall Tiles

A country kitchen draws from the down-to-earth style of French, English, and colonial cottages to create a lovely, lived-in kitchen look. Particularly popular in old-style homes found on the East Coast, country kitchens create a relaxed, homey feel with their hand-made and antique stylings.

Expect to find floral or plaid patterns in furniture and window treatments, as well as whitewash or distressed wood finishes on cabinets and exposed beams near the ceiling. Modern appliances disguise themselves as antiques, lending to the overall sense of the rustic.

Old World Kitchens

Old world kitchens are the opposite of the contemporary style. Stepping into one is a little like going back in time—to pre-17th century Europe to be precise. Old world design is characterized by deep, rich colors and stains on wood, copper or pewter accents, stone walls or floors, and, of course, glass tile mosaics on the walls or backsplash.

Transitional Kitchens

If you cannot make up your mind about which style suits you best, a transitional kitchen design may work for you. Transitional kitchens incorporate elements from many different kitchen designs to create the perfect style. Eclectic, transitional kitchen mix and match natural and man-made elements. They are also not shy about putting colors, textures, and finishes together. A transitional kitchen uses the best of all the styles and is a popular kitchen choice for people from the Midwest to the Northeast.

Contemporary Kitchens

Contemporary Kitchen Tiles

Contemporary kitchen designs are very popular in modern homes across the US and take their inspiration from popular modern European designs, such as those found in Germany and Scandinavia. Focusing on sleek lines and uncluttered detailing, contemporary kitchens tend to be very striking. A true chef’s paradise, the main draw of a contemporary kitchen is its attention to ultra-high tech and modern appliances.

Granite countertops, frameless cabinets, and stainless steel are all popular in the contemporary kitchen. Choices for color palettes range from minimalist white to bold hues of red, green, or blue.

Glass Tile Makes Any Kitchen “Pop”

From country to contemporary, glass tiles can be incorporated into any kitchen style to give it a unique spin. Kitchen backsplashes are a natural place for glass tiles in the kitchen, but other options include adding tiles to either all or a section of the floor, and even the walls. Glass tiles can be mixed with natural elements such as stone tile to fit perfectly into traditional or country kitchens. Glass Tile Warehouse also a wide variety of colors from reds to tans that will complement contemporary and transitional kitchens.

If you are planning a kitchen remodel, choose a style that will stand the test of time as something that will last. Glass Tile Warehouse can help you meet that goal.

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Bathroom Tiling Styles Across the United States

Posted on July 5, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

Though they have much in common, bathroom styles in the United States vary distinctly from region to region. Colors, patterns, and designs are brought together in unique and diverse ways—sometimes even differing greatly across state lines.

While this is the case, glass tile can fit perfectly into a wide variety of bathroom compositions to complete any look. Let’s take a look at what the different styles around the country are and how you can incorporate glass tile into each to create a one-of-a-kind bathroom design that is all your own.

Northeast

Bathrooms trends in the Northeast are all about contemporary simplicity. Features such ultra-modern basin sink designs combined with stylized faucets that resemble miniature fountains more than they do traditional taps are combined with sleek elegance in muted color palettes and natural lighting. Many bathrooms in the Northeast feature minimalist glass shower enclosures and clean, straight edges for tubs and counters.

Glass tiles are a perfect fit for this style of bathroom. Since they come in such a wide variety of shapes and styles, they can match any bathroom to complete a look of chic sophistication. A natural use of glass tiles would be to install any of our beautiful textured tile blends to the tub and shower area, especially if you choose to go with a clear glass partition. Another great choice would be to install subway tile on the wall behind the sink.

South

Southern-inspired bathrooms are all about everyday luxury. Imagine living in a country cabin or a colonial manse to get the idea of what these bathrooms are all about. Rich, saturated hues and luxurious textiles dominate the Southern bathroom. Modern equivalents of classic throwbacks such as clawfoot tubs, dressing chairs, and chandelier-style light fixtures give this bathroom style a classiness that endures.

Here, again, glass tile can be fitted in with the bathroom’s existing features to create a perfect accord. For the Southern bath, think about mixing and matching tile sizes and shapes for the walls or the shower area. Frosted glass or ceramic tile would be a perfect choice. For the floor, our stone bathroom tile blends can be installed to match a bathroom decorated with natural colors and textures.

Midwest

In the Midwest, bathrooms are designed with purpose and personality in mind. Bright colors and unexpected details such as geometric rugs and bold bouquets placed deftly alongside sinks or tubs play a role in defining Midwestern style. To create a bathroom haven in the Midwest, think form and function with outdoor lighting that fits perfectly inside, and contemporary off-center drawer pulls and cabinet knobs.

Glass tile is right at home in the Midwestern bathroom. Our glass tiles one of the most attractive and affordable ways to add accent to floors, backsplashes, and tubs. The glass mosaic tiles we offer here at Glass Tile Warehouse can be used for these purposes in the Midwest. They come in a variety of fresh colors and finishes to brighten up and add interest to any space.

West Coast

Many new bathroom innovations come from this area of the United States as designers who live in these cities try different techniques and trends catch on across the country. For classic West Coast design, the beach is brought into the bathroom with natural colors and textures that resemble those found at the coast. A far cry from standard “shell” motifs, however, bathrooms on the West Coast go for a linear, clean style that is nevertheless very natural.

Glass tile is very popular as a design choice for West Coast bathrooms since it fits so obviously with the design techniques found there. Often, bathrooms on the West Coast can be quite large with separate areas for a shower and jacuzzi tub and multiple vanities. With all that space to cover, Glass Tile Warehouse has a large offering of unique tile blends to fit anywhere they are needed.

No matter where you live or what your bathroom style, Glass Tile Warehouse can help you create a bathroom with character. Shop by color or finish to find the perfect tile for your space.

 

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Adding Character Through Kitchen Backsplashes

Posted on June 21, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

Kitchen Backsplash by Glass Tile WarehouseGlass tiles provide a wide range of design opportunities for your kitchen, and with a little flexing of your creative muscles you can add something really unique that is both functional and attractive. Kitchen backsplashes were traditionally little more than a way to protect the walls from unintended splashes and make cleanup a little easier. Now, though, backsplashes are also about creating a unique look for your entire kitchen.

When you are choosing the style, design, and finish for your kitchen backsplash you should generally choose the tiles that complement the rest of the décor. There are some cases when a contrasting design works wonderfully, but you should only attempt this after consulting a professional because it’s really easy for a contrasting color scheme to go horribly wrong. Remember: you want to create a look that is eye-catching, not an eye-sore.

A lot of people use the same countertop materials for their kitchen backsplashes – marble, granite, etc. It’s simple and easy and obviously fits with the other elements in the kitchen. However, if you want to add something a little more unique, you can find some high-quality glass tiles that will match the look and feel of your kitchen and still let you be a little creative.

Glass tiles come in a wide range of colors and finishes. You can get some nice glossy tiles to add a little sparkle or go with a stone tile blend if you want a backsplash that looks like it’s related to the countertop but has a little complexity to the look. Or you could get really creative and design your own mosaics and patters out of different colors and textures to have a kitchen that is really unique, but you should also seek a consultation with a professional before you go down this road.

A glass tile backsplash in your kitchen can add a bold highlight or a subtle augmentation. You can run the tile the length of the countertop or keep it contained right behind the sink. Some people like to run the tile almost all the way up the wall while others only want it high enough to blend the countertop to the wall behind it. There are many different options for home renovators, and this is a great chance to use a little bit of your creativity and add some accents to your kitchen that are both functional and beautiful.

Begin planning the new personality your kitchen can take on. Check out our latest kitchen backsplashes today.

 

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The Top 5 Indicators It’s Time to Remodel the Bathroom

Posted on June 7, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

There are many different reasons why it might be the best time for a bathroom remodel, but here are a few things that may spark the need for renovations. Take a look at your own situation to see how GlassTileWarehouse.com can help you get started when it comes to design and bathroom tiles.

  1. Increasing the value of your home – The housing market right now makes it difficult to sell any home, but if your bathroom is dingy, small and unappealing, then you might find that there are fewer people willing to bite. With a simple renovation, you can significantly add to the value of your home, easily making up the difference in your asking price.
  2. Your bathroom is outdated – One of the biggest reasons for a bathroom renovation is simply because a bathroom is old and needs something new. The colors on your wall might be straight from the 70s, or your fixtures might show more wear than you would like, but a remodel can solve that. For a fresh, unique look that adds a classic yet new design to your bathroom, consider putting in glass mosaic tile for your bathroom backsplash or over an entire wall.
  3. More bathroom space is needed – Whether your family has grown or you have just found that more space would be nice, enlarging your bathroom can do wonders to the aesthetic appeal. You can add a full sized tub, large shower or multiple sinks in order to get more use out of your space. While smaller bathrooms used to be more common, today’s construction habits leave a little wiggle room.
  4. There is damage you need to repair – Because the bathroom is a wet area, it stands to reason that the fixtures and materials would need to be replaced over time. Some older bathrooms even have carpet installed rather than tile or linoleum. While glass bathroom tiles will stand the test of time, you might need to replace your wood moldings, cracked countertops or dysfunctional fixtures.
  5. Safety and accessibility need to be addressed – Children and elderly alike can slip in bathrooms, and you might need to update your bathroom to make it safer. Even if you do not have anyone with accessibility needs in your family, you might want to renovate your bathroom if you are planning to sell your home, or you might want to plan for the future and take care of things before they become too difficult for you to handle.

If you’re updating your bathroom, be sure to think about the design elements you want to implement. Glass tile is functional, affordable and beautiful, and at GlassTileWarehouse.com, we have the selection to meet your needs.

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The Classic Beauty of Glass Subway Title

Posted on May 24, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

If you want a modern twist on a classic look, try glass subway tile.

Origins of Subway Tile

Subway tile gets its name from 1904, when the New York City subway system was opened. The underground walls of the subway transit tunnels featured distinct, white ceramic tiles that were rectangular in shape (3×6) and highly glossy. If you’ve ever been to NYC, you’ll know that the look is still popular today. The subway tile was originally put in because of how stain resistant and durable it was, and because it was going underground, the white color helped make things look less dark.

Subway Tile Today

Since the 1900s, this classic subway tile look has expanded into other mediums. Designers are no longer constricted to white ceramic tile, and now, colorful glass tile adds a unique flavor to the classic design. Still featuring the distinctive 3×6 shape, you can now take a modern approach while keeping the simple, uniform look of subway tiles. Subway tile has become extremely popular today, so you are sure to find the color and design you want, and because it is so versatile, you can use it in bathrooms, foyers, kitchens and more.

Because people are no longer restricted to whitewashed walls, this design element has come back as a modern trend that allows for a classically simple, low maintenance look. The resurgence in popularity is partly due to the fact that it is so easy to clean. Whether you install the tile with a decorative edging element or you keep things simple without any edging, the clean lines make a statement all of their own.

One of the added benefits of subway tile is that it is so affordable. With our selection, you can resurface your space for just over $13 per square foot, making this a great redecorating idea for kitchen tiles in a backsplash, walls and entire bathrooms using tile.

If you go with subway tile for your kitchen or bathroom, you’ll also want to pay attention to the grout you choose. The tighter you grout your subway tile, the more classic it will look, especially if you choose a white grout. If you choose a darker grout to complement a colored subway tile, then you will get a more contemporary look.

For your next project, let Glass Tile Warehouse help you create the design you’ve been looking for.

 

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How Versatile Is Your Glass Tile?

Posted on May 10, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

Glass tiles are very versatile and can be used in a variety of functions, whether you are looking to redecorate part of your home or you are interested in updating a commercial space.

Residential Glass Tile Benefits

Residentially speaking, glass tile works well for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom floors, shower walls, garden pathways, mudrooms, washing rooms and more. Because it is so easy to clean and maintain, glass tiles are often used where the surrounding area is most likely to become dirty. This benefit can have obvious appeal when looking to bring more tile into the home. The easier the cleaning will be the better.

Glass is stain resistant and durable, and because it does not absorb liquids, it is a great alternative to wood, linoleum or ceramic in kitchen and bathroom areas. It offers a layer of protection against spills, splatters and other liquids, but it is simultaneously easy to clean. Using soap and a damp cloth, you can clean glass tile in less time, restoring it to its unique beauty. Busy, active families often find that glass tile allows them to have an updated look without adding to the maintenance problems that kids can create.

Commercial Glass Tile Benefits

Commercial buildings often use glass tiles as well. Hotels, spas, restaurants and schools enjoy it because of its appearance and sophisticated look.  Typically, glass tiles are used in the bathrooms of these commercial buildings, though you will see them on several walls for decoration as well.

If you are contemplating a renovation project, think of how glass tiles might factor into your design. Whether you are working on a commercial space or your home kitchen, we can help. To begin researching the best place to start is determining which glass tile finish will best meet the look your setting will need.

To begin evaluating glass tile go to the Glass Tile Warehouse Home Page.

 

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Tile Trends from the 2011 Coverings Expo

Posted on April 5, 2011 by Glass Tile Warehouse

Directly from the 2011 COVERINGS Tile and Stone Expo in Las Vegas:

“Glass mosaic tile is the freshest way to bring personality to your space.”

According to Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer, Alena Capra, CKD, CBD, NKBA,
mosaic tiles are the hottest trend for kitchen wall tiles and bathroom backsplashes.

The freshest looks, according to a nationwide Kitchen + Bath designer survey include the following:

Painted back glass accents, glass + stone blends, glass + metal blends, glass subway tiles patterned in either a brick running bond, herringbone or basket weave patterns, bold color glass tiles, and bold glass tile blends, and textured glass tile blends. The hottest bold colors include oranges, golds, and blues.

Going Green is a vital growing trend. Recycled glass tile is a fabulous way to gain a unique look for your space, and do a favor for the environment.

Whether your space is traditionally conservative and calls for a glass + stone blend or glass subway tiles, or is contemporarily bold, and cries out for a splash of bold color, Glass Tile Warehouse has you covered.

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Why use kitchen backsplash tile?

Posted on January 26, 2011 by GlassTileWarehouse

Originally, backsplash tile was used for pure convenience. People installed these easy-to-clean surfaces behind the cooktop, sink, and prep area to protect their kitchen walls from splatter stains and water damage. Of course, backsplash tile still serves this purpose, but now, it also serves as an aesthetically pleasing addition to almost any kitchen.

Over the years, kitchen designers and homeowners realized that distinctive kitchen backsplash tile can breathe a breath of fresh air into a kitchen. Convenience and style, art and functionality working together. And, that’s exactly what our featured backsplash tiles offer.

At Glass Tile Warehouse, we supply customers with a wide selection of backsplash tile. Without a doubt, you’ll find the glass tile that bridges the gap between your countertop and your cabinets. Our backsplash tile comes in an array of different colors bound to fit any kitchen’s color scheme.

Another attractive aspect of kitchen backsplash tile is that it’s easy to install. By taking advantage of our simple installation guide, you’ll have a fully functional and tasteful kitchen backsplash in no time. While we highlight some of our more popular backsplash tile here on our featured page, be sure to check out our entire selection of glass tile. If you should have any questions regarding backsplashes or glass tile in general, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Visit us at www.glasstilewarehouse.com to find the right glass tile to update your kitchen or bathroom today!

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Glass Subway Tiles now available at Glass Tile Warehouse

Posted on December 23, 2010 by GlassTileWarehouse

Subway tiles used to only mean white 3×6 ceramic tiles, but not any longer. Glass subway tiles from Glass Tile Warehouse offer a modern twist on a classic look, sure to enhance any kitchen or bathroom space. Best of all, your new glass tile kitchen or bathroom backsplash only looks like it cost a lot. At only $2.19 apiece, you can surface or resurface your project area for only $17.52 per square foot!

Glass Tile Warehouse now carries large format crystal style glass tiles in 3”x 6”, 4”x 4”, and 1” x 6”. Click here to check out the different sizes and colors and order your tile samples today.

Please feel free to email us or call us at 877-247-6489 for more information.

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