Ceramic Tile vs. Glass Tile for Your Backsplash

Featured Image: Flash Ivory 5 x 5 Ceramic Kitchen Backsplash Tile from Arizona Tile

When renovating, many homeowners choose to install features like a backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom. Choosing the right tile for the job, however, can be tough. Varieties of tile function in some spaces better than others, as well as have different maintenance needs. Knowing which works best for you before installation begins is important. If you’d like to learn more about glass and ceramic tile, this guide will help you decide which will best complement your space.

Image: Geo 2 Bisou Dawn Hex Mesh Glass Bathroom Backsplash Tile from Arizona Tile

Glass Tile

Uses

Glass tile is simple, refined, and contemporary. The delicate, translucent nature of the material adds a gentle shine to your space, creating an open and airy feel. Reflecting the natural light of the room, it lifts the space and opens it up with a welcoming, serene room feel. A bathroom backsplash favorite is the Geo 2 Hex Mesh. The soft patterns add flair into the space without overwhelming the room design.

Painted-back glass tile, such as Islandia and Dunes, should not be installed in applications where it is exposed to extreme heat. This includes outdoor direct sunlight applications or interior walls behind industrial stovetops.

Image: Islandia Aruba 4 x 3 Mesh and Islandia Tinos 4 x 3 Mesh Glass Kitchen Backsplash Tile from Arizona Tile

Maintenance

The basic upkeep of a glass tile is easy. Simply wipe down the surface with a cloth and any non-abrasive cleanser to keep it gleaming. The sheer tones of most glass make it easy to see when a touch-up is needed. A classic option like Islandia glass shines up beautifully and is a breeze to clean.

Image: Dunes Pearl & Platinum Leaves, Dunes Pewter 3 x 12 Wave Glass Tile Bathroom Shower Wall with Shelf from Arizona Tile

Variety

Our glass tile comes in a wide selection of tints, sizes, and designs. When renovating, homeowners may envision a glass tile backsplash with the classic square mosaic-style feature. While our style experts love this look, there are so many other options for incorporating glass. Our Geo 2 is a mini hex featuring contemporary, geometric designs in three patterns and five solid colors. Our Islandia series offers eight varied tones, a 4 x 12, a 4 x 3 mesh, as well as a fantastic Chevron mesh. Finally, our Dunes features six beautiful neutral colors, a flat and textured 3 x 12, a staggered and straight 2 x 6, and two mosaics inspired by nature. Each series provide endless possibilities for mixing and matching so you can create a feature piece that is completely unique.

Image: Smooth White 4 x 24 Ceramic Tile Kitchen Backsplash from Arizona Tile

Ceramic Tile

Uses

As an accent piece, ceramic tile shines in the kitchen and bathrooms. This affordable, easy-to-clean surface has a classic look that complements any room design. A timeless choice is Smooth. This Italian-made ceramic wall tile is offered in a wide variety of colors and pairs well with other tile series, including natural stone.

Maintenance

When used as a backsplash, keeping your ceramic tile clean is easy. Just wipe it with a pH-balanced neutral cleaner and warm water. Be sure to thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing. Don’t use a detergent on a glazed tile, as soap film will give it a dull appearance. Simply wiping glazed tile with a damp sponge will keep its luster. There is no need to wax, polish, or buff. Don’t use vinegar or cleaners containing acids or alkaline agents. Also, be sure to not use scouring powders, as they contain abrasives that may scratch the surface of the tile.

Variety

Ceramic tile has a lot of variety. The classic rectangle shape is commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms. Geometric shapes are also common in this material, which provides some options for your space. Our Paloma series is a great example of this. Where ceramic shines, though, is in the huge selection of available colors for tile, like in our Flash series. This tile comes in a range of grayscale hues, making it a reliable option for any design style. For the adventurous renovator, more colorful shades are available as well. Blush, Light Blue, and Cobalt are just a few of the many color choices ceramic tile offers. Matte and glossy finishes are also options in many series.

Our team at Arizona Tile is committed to making your home renovations or new build a success. With our experience and knowledge, we can guide you through the remodeling process. Be sure to stop by one of our locations to speak to a specialist and browse the showroom. If you need help selecting a tile, no worries, our team knows how to help. The Just Imagine tile visualizer also lets you browse tile, and even lets you see how it would look in your space before you commit. If you have any questions, contact us today. We look forward to making your renovation dreams come true.