Installation Guide

GROUT
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It is suggested to use a grout without sand for the installation of glass mosaics. Additionally,
we suggest a grout sealer application to prevent stains, water infiltration, etc…
It is noteworthy that the risk of scratches is present when sanded grout is used (regular grout and
epoxy grout) particularly on tile with shiny surfaces. Likewise, avoid abrasive products for cleaning.
EXTREMELY HOT OR HEATED ENVIRONMENTS
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Do to the nature of glass and glass tiles, the installation of glass tiles in extremely hot or heated
environments is only recommended with caution. In order to have a successful install care must be
taken as to not introduce thermal shock to glass or glass tile.
POOL/WET ENVIRONVENTS
Certain ABOLOS glass tiles can be used in wet areas. The proper installation of ABOLOS glass tiles
is critical to avoid stress on the glass. To find tiles that can be used in wet areas search ABOLOS for
“Pool Rated” tiles.
CUTTING GLASS TILES
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The easiest, fastest and best way to cut glass tile is with a simple glass-scoring tool and a straight
edge. IMPORTANT! All cut edges on ABOLOS glass tiles need to be embedded completely in the
setting material. To cut, score the glass lightly on the front or unpainted side of the tile along the
desired cut line and snap along the line. To snap the tile, place the tip of a tapered hardwood dowel,
similar to the size of a pencil, directly under the edge of the scored line and place even pressure on
both sides. Carbide wheel glass-scoring tools are available at nearly all hardware stores. A very
useful and important tool for all glass tile installations is a pair of GLASS RUN PLIERS. Using glass
run pliers allows the installer to easily cut and trim ABOLOS glass tiles. Cuts as thin as 3/8” or
smaller are possible.
Once the tile surface is scored, the score line is aligned with a white stripe on the top of the pliers
jaw. Slight pressure applied to the pliers will snap the glass. When score cutting, be sure to use the
Glass Run Pliers to affect the initial cutting of the glass. Then, while holding the tile face up, separate
the tile with a downward motion allowing the cut edge to sever the tile membrane.
ABOLOS glass tiles can also be cut with a wet saw. If using a wet saw, be sure to use a glass
compatible diamond blade in good condition. A blade for cutting glass has smaller diamonds than a
tile blade and has a continuous rim. Most blades designed for ceramic tiles are coarse and will chip
the glass. It is very important when cutting glass with a wet saw to have adequate water flow and to
cut slowly. It is best to practice making a few cuts with regular 1/4” window glass before proceeding
to cut the tile. A lapidary blade will also make a very clean cut on glass.
When cutting glass tile on a wet saw, it is required to cut the tile face down. This will prevent
chipping of the colored areas of the tile. A piece of electrical tape, masking tape or duct tape laid
along the line of the cut on the tile face will greatly reduce chipping along the edge. A light piece of
cardboard or building paper on the saw bed will protect the surface of the glass from scratches.
All edges must be sealed with a grout system to ensure complete protection to the tiles.