Your Guide to Mirror Tiles

This is a simple guide for deciding whether or not mirror tiles are the right product to put in your home. My goal is to provide as detailed a webpage as possible, helping you understand all the considerations, starting with design and ending with maintenance.

I'll also talk in detail about the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional installation. If you have a question not covered on the page, use the "question" box below to send me a question. I'll try to get back to you within one business day.

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Some Things To Consider About Mirror Tiles

When it comes to using mirrored tiles in a home installation, there are a few things worth reviewing. Here are some drawbacks of choosing mirrored tiles over other reflective surfaces:

Affordability vs. Installation Costs

  • ●Mirror tiles are small, making them easy to warehouse and ship. This makes them readily available online and in stores at inexpensive prices.
  • ●However, while the tiles themselves are cheap, the installation process can be expensive. Mirror is a fragile and difficult building material to work with, requiring skilled labor for a polished look.

Continue reading the next section for important factors to consider before beginning your mirror tile project.

Mirror Tile Project Considerations

1. Distortion: All mirror tiles have distortion, primarily due to the glue used to bond them to the surface. This creates a high spot in each tile. While thicker glass reduces distortion, it's almost always present.

2. Installation: Mirror tile installation is unique compared to other tiled products. Experienced tile setters might not have the specific technique for mirror tiles. Techniques that work for ceramic tiles might not be effective for mirror tiles.

3. Cost: Despite being inexpensive, the complexity of installing mirror tiles can make the overall project cost comparable to, or even more expensive than, using a single large mirror.

4. Fragility: Mirror tiles, especially those made from thin glass, are fragile and susceptible to breaking due to impacts or heat exposure. This is a common concern for all glass products, but it's more prominent with thinner glass.

mirror distortion

a classic case of mirror distortion...

Alternatives That Achieve A Similar Look

Alternative Materials for Achieving a Similar Look:

  • Larger mirrors (as opposed to smaller tiles)
  • Ceramic tiles (typically found in bathrooms and kitchens)
  • Porcelain tiles
  • Various other tile products

Highly Recommended Option:

Metal veneer (a thin layer of metal that is easy to install and visually appealing)

Other Classic Options:

  • Wood
  • Paint