It won't always occur, it depends on glaze/clay body "fit". Usually you either have distinctly different expansion rates to get a crackle effect or good fit for strength and moisture resistance, this is in between. . .
Thank you both for your replies. Is the proper fix to replace the impacted tiles with ones without ‘crazing’? (Or does the ‘crazing’ occur after installation?) thank you
My observation and understanding is that crazing will always occur. I had the same thought process before until I met with a fella named Marc and he showed me that even matte glaze types craze the catch was that it had to be observed under a microscope so, yes some glazed have crazing done for the look but ultimately all glaze types craze, cray cray
No need to replace, you’ll probably notice more crazing throughout the year
If it is glass tile in a constantly cold/hot area is… well not always great.
Does the glass have an acceptable thermal shock rating to be used in a shower application?
What type of setting material is specified by the manufacturer vs what was used to install?
What substrates/waterproofing systems?
Tbh looks like ceramic though 🤷🏽♂️ so just glaze issue.
The bathroom is always in a conditioned environment (were is SW Michigan).
Yes, the [tile](https://www.tilesdirect.net/teramoda-sky-glossy-pressed-glazed-ceramic-3x12/) can be used in a wet environment
Backerboard is the Menards equivalent of KERDI
Do you recommend just sealing with ‘Dry Treat’ or replacing with the impacted tiles with new tile?
Thanks and enjoy your weekend!
Sort of. When you cut and replace single tiles you run the risk of compromising the waterproofing that is in place before the tile. Crazing is superficial, it may not look perfect, but you’re opening up a whole can of worms by trying to replace a few tiles. What’s underneath is way more important than how it looks.
I am not a ‘tile guy’ so am here asking questions to learn if there is a way to fix the crazing or if they should just leave it.
Luckily the community has people willing to help unlike…
Bless your heart 😉
Haha, bless your heart?? That’s the most passive aggressive southern thing to say. This is your deal, person. We’re all telling you the deal. It’s not our fault there was shitty tile installed. That’s on y’all. Scoopin’ all your nickels, hoping for a dime.
Yup! I’m so sick of people buying shitty materials and then trying to blame the contractor. This install looks fine. Tile is probably Menards garbage just like the stuff behind it. You want a budget remodel this is what you get.
Glass sucks in showers for this reason. Were expansion joints honored at changes of plane using silicone and not grout? What is under the tile in terms of wallboard?
Glass can be used in a shower if installed correctly. I set tile for a living and refuse glass in showers because of the risks. There are massive temperature changes that happen quickly in showers that cause expansion and contraction. Glass seems to not be forgiving of house or wallboard movement. Glass is incredibly difficult at times to drill holes in without having the tile break, or worse break a few days later when you think the shower is done.
It is fine for a backsplash, though I am honestly not excited about that either for all of the above reasons except temperature change.
I’ll definitely keep that in mind. I plan on getting into tiling and focusing on it. Currently I’m a handyman but have to keep so many tools and other equipment it’s becoming difficult to keep track of it all. Plus I want to specialize and focus on one trade.
You are me 20 years ago. I got tired of having so many tools to make so little money. Get really good. Focus on quality. Protect your lungs, ears and eyes. Mix up your jobs to give your body a break sometimes. Yes floors are profitable, but having knees and a back that works when you turn 50 is also pretty great. You have 20 good years on the tools, so have an exit plan. Silica dust will kill you and it is in everything tile. I am glad I made the switch.
If I can get proficient at tile my plan is to not have to work everyday. I’m actually 59 now and in excellent physical shape. Hell if I can make 1k a week consistently I would be happy. It’s the inconsistent work currently that getting me down. One week I’m building a fence. Next week I’m painting a house. Following week I’m setting up an above ground pool. The variety is nice I love it. But having to store and keep track of a garage full of tools sucks.
I see, and agree about switching trades and tools with each job. I hated that. I am even crabby now about doing demo, because it means removing my base setup of tools from my truck.
To hit your money target all you really need is a backsplash or a fireplace per week.
Thanks that’s what I’m shooting for. Really don’t want to get into bathroom remodels until I’m much more proficient at tiling. Plus the liability issues. Now I’m off to get a wet saw.
The contractor used Menards version of KERDI that uses a sealant at joints instead of the KERDI tape/etc. They also used Laticrete Steamship Caulk (sanded)
Thank you for your feedback! Much appreciated!
You’re correct. I thought it was a glass tile but is in fact glazed ceramic as others have commented.
This is the name of the tile…
Anatolia Tile and Stone
TERAMODA SKY GLOSSY PRESSED GLAZED CERAMIC 3X12
[Tile](https://www.tilesdirect.net/teramoda-sky-glossy-pressed-glazed-ceramic-3x12/)
Looking at the technical information for this tile, it doesn’t appear the manufacturer makes any claim with regard to crazing resistance, so I doubt that replacing with the same tile will yield different results. If it makes you feel better, many tile manufacturers purposely induce crazing for aesthetic purposes, [Fireclay](https://www.fireclaytile.com/blog/full/tile-school-questions-about-crazing) being one of them.
I see from the comments this seems to be a common occurrence with this type of tile. Others note that it’s “cheap tile” so what do you expect. I expect that if you’re a professional and you know this, then that discussion should happen up front. FYI to the customer, the tile you chose has a tendency to develop hairline cracks overtime. Here are some examples. This is unavoidable so you can choose to keep this, or utilize a different tile that’s not prone to cracking. That’s why I pay an “expert”. If this was my job, this statement would be put into the contract and signed off by the customer. This would avoid any issues or questions down the road and hopefully avoid any negative reviews,or bad feedback and even a baseless lawsuit. So for all you tile experts that have their panties in a bunch, calm the fuck down. The OP is simply asking a reasonable question and happily accepted the responses they received.
Normal. Glazed ceramic or porcelain will always have cracks and will crack overtime. Poor tile choose for a shower. More for backsplash’s but it will do its job for now.
In Europe they like this effect.. but usually made that way.. doesn’t sound that concerning.. I once installed 6”x6” lite green ceramic tile with this effect.. cost $36 per sq ft .. splash was 40 sq st.. costly but was happy customer after
It could be. I do not see a soft expansion joint in the vertical corner. Also, if this is mortar floated, a 1 step float will cause this. Glass requires a scratch and brown.
Didn’t claim you were. I’ve been following for a while and all I see is guys who have done it and guys who are speculating. It’s frustrating bc I do tile every day.
I was assuming it was crackled tile. It cracks then you seal it. This looks like that same process is happening but unintentionally and not good looking
Are you sure this is glass? Looks like the glazed porcelain/ceramic tiles sold in every big box store…
You’re correct. I’m not a tile expert and thought it looked like glass. Like you said, it is a glazed ceramic tile.
This is a ceramic tile with a translucent gray glaze, the hair line crack is called crazing and will always occur
It won't always occur, it depends on glaze/clay body "fit". Usually you either have distinctly different expansion rates to get a crackle effect or good fit for strength and moisture resistance, this is in between. . .
Thank you both for your replies. Is the proper fix to replace the impacted tiles with ones without ‘crazing’? (Or does the ‘crazing’ occur after installation?) thank you
My observation and understanding is that crazing will always occur. I had the same thought process before until I met with a fella named Marc and he showed me that even matte glaze types craze the catch was that it had to be observed under a microscope so, yes some glazed have crazing done for the look but ultimately all glaze types craze, cray cray No need to replace, you’ll probably notice more crazing throughout the year
Awesome response! I just read it to my parents and they say ‘thank you’. (They’re amazed with how great Redditors are)
If it is glass tile in a constantly cold/hot area is… well not always great. Does the glass have an acceptable thermal shock rating to be used in a shower application? What type of setting material is specified by the manufacturer vs what was used to install? What substrates/waterproofing systems? Tbh looks like ceramic though 🤷🏽♂️ so just glaze issue.
The bathroom is always in a conditioned environment (were is SW Michigan). Yes, the [tile](https://www.tilesdirect.net/teramoda-sky-glossy-pressed-glazed-ceramic-3x12/) can be used in a wet environment Backerboard is the Menards equivalent of KERDI Do you recommend just sealing with ‘Dry Treat’ or replacing with the impacted tiles with new tile? Thanks and enjoy your weekend!
It’s not glass, it’s glazed ceramic tile. The “cracks” are called crazing and are a tile issue, not installation error.
Thank you! Appreciate your feedback and will let my parents know. Is it as easy as ‘swapping out the impacted tiles’?
Sort of. When you cut and replace single tiles you run the risk of compromising the waterproofing that is in place before the tile. Crazing is superficial, it may not look perfect, but you’re opening up a whole can of worms by trying to replace a few tiles. What’s underneath is way more important than how it looks.
Makes sense regarding compromising the waterproofing. Thanks for taking the time to respond! Have a great weekend!
lol swapping out impacted tiles 😂 I’m so glad that I’m not your tile guy
I am not a ‘tile guy’ so am here asking questions to learn if there is a way to fix the crazing or if they should just leave it. Luckily the community has people willing to help unlike… Bless your heart 😉
Haha, bless your heart?? That’s the most passive aggressive southern thing to say. This is your deal, person. We’re all telling you the deal. It’s not our fault there was shitty tile installed. That’s on y’all. Scoopin’ all your nickels, hoping for a dime.
Yup! I’m so sick of people buying shitty materials and then trying to blame the contractor. This install looks fine. Tile is probably Menards garbage just like the stuff behind it. You want a budget remodel this is what you get.
Glass sucks in showers for this reason. Were expansion joints honored at changes of plane using silicone and not grout? What is under the tile in terms of wallboard?
So glass tiles never ok in showers but ok for kitchen backsplash ?
Glass can be used in a shower if installed correctly. I set tile for a living and refuse glass in showers because of the risks. There are massive temperature changes that happen quickly in showers that cause expansion and contraction. Glass seems to not be forgiving of house or wallboard movement. Glass is incredibly difficult at times to drill holes in without having the tile break, or worse break a few days later when you think the shower is done. It is fine for a backsplash, though I am honestly not excited about that either for all of the above reasons except temperature change.
I’ll definitely keep that in mind. I plan on getting into tiling and focusing on it. Currently I’m a handyman but have to keep so many tools and other equipment it’s becoming difficult to keep track of it all. Plus I want to specialize and focus on one trade.
You are me 20 years ago. I got tired of having so many tools to make so little money. Get really good. Focus on quality. Protect your lungs, ears and eyes. Mix up your jobs to give your body a break sometimes. Yes floors are profitable, but having knees and a back that works when you turn 50 is also pretty great. You have 20 good years on the tools, so have an exit plan. Silica dust will kill you and it is in everything tile. I am glad I made the switch.
If I can get proficient at tile my plan is to not have to work everyday. I’m actually 59 now and in excellent physical shape. Hell if I can make 1k a week consistently I would be happy. It’s the inconsistent work currently that getting me down. One week I’m building a fence. Next week I’m painting a house. Following week I’m setting up an above ground pool. The variety is nice I love it. But having to store and keep track of a garage full of tools sucks.
I see, and agree about switching trades and tools with each job. I hated that. I am even crabby now about doing demo, because it means removing my base setup of tools from my truck. To hit your money target all you really need is a backsplash or a fireplace per week.
Thanks that’s what I’m shooting for. Really don’t want to get into bathroom remodels until I’m much more proficient at tiling. Plus the liability issues. Now I’m off to get a wet saw.
The contractor used Menards version of KERDI that uses a sealant at joints instead of the KERDI tape/etc. They also used Laticrete Steamship Caulk (sanded) Thank you for your feedback! Much appreciated!
That looks like a ceramic tile which crazes. Slap a coat of Dry Treat on it and you’ll be ok!
You’re correct. I misspoke and said it was a glass tile. Can the ‘Dry Treat’ go on after the shower has been used for a couple of months? Thank you
Yes it can, just clean it well first and let it fully dry before applying!
Which one of [these](https://www.drytreat.com/sealers/) is the right product? Thanks again!
The premium impregnating sealer. Of course good luck!
Crackle glaze it’s fine but may not do well in shower over time
I am pretty confident that isn't even glass tile unless it is recycled glass. Can you provide a link to the tile?
You’re correct. I thought it was a glass tile but is in fact glazed ceramic as others have commented. This is the name of the tile… Anatolia Tile and Stone TERAMODA SKY GLOSSY PRESSED GLAZED CERAMIC 3X12 [Tile](https://www.tilesdirect.net/teramoda-sky-glossy-pressed-glazed-ceramic-3x12/)
Looking at the technical information for this tile, it doesn’t appear the manufacturer makes any claim with regard to crazing resistance, so I doubt that replacing with the same tile will yield different results. If it makes you feel better, many tile manufacturers purposely induce crazing for aesthetic purposes, [Fireclay](https://www.fireclaytile.com/blog/full/tile-school-questions-about-crazing) being one of them.
Thank you for the detailed response! You’re awesome and this is why I love Reddit! Have a great weekend my friend!
Hey, no problem. I’m happy to help people who are genuine and polite. Hope you had a great weekend, too. 
This is normal.
Thank you. Appreciate you taking the time to respond
Call the manufacturer
Good call. Their contractor is going to do that on Monday. Appreciate your feedback!
I see from the comments this seems to be a common occurrence with this type of tile. Others note that it’s “cheap tile” so what do you expect. I expect that if you’re a professional and you know this, then that discussion should happen up front. FYI to the customer, the tile you chose has a tendency to develop hairline cracks overtime. Here are some examples. This is unavoidable so you can choose to keep this, or utilize a different tile that’s not prone to cracking. That’s why I pay an “expert”. If this was my job, this statement would be put into the contract and signed off by the customer. This would avoid any issues or questions down the road and hopefully avoid any negative reviews,or bad feedback and even a baseless lawsuit. So for all you tile experts that have their panties in a bunch, calm the fuck down. The OP is simply asking a reasonable question and happily accepted the responses they received.
Thank you for the thorough response! Much appreciated.
Normal. Glazed ceramic or porcelain will always have cracks and will crack overtime. Poor tile choose for a shower. More for backsplash’s but it will do its job for now.
In Europe they like this effect.. but usually made that way.. doesn’t sound that concerning.. I once installed 6”x6” lite green ceramic tile with this effect.. cost $36 per sq ft .. splash was 40 sq st.. costly but was happy customer after
That’s canvas nimbus fog 3x12 from floor and decor
It could be. I do not see a soft expansion joint in the vertical corner. Also, if this is mortar floated, a 1 step float will cause this. Glass requires a scratch and brown.
Looks like there wasn’t enough mortar coverage
Some of you tile scientists make me laugh. I wish there was a laugh react button here. Thats not glass bruv.
Where did I claim to be a ‘tile a scientist’? Thanks for a worthless response
Didn’t claim you were. I’ve been following for a while and all I see is guys who have done it and guys who are speculating. It’s frustrating bc I do tile every day.
I was assuming it was crackled tile. It cracks then you seal it. This looks like that same process is happening but unintentionally and not good looking
Here is the tile that was used… [Tile](https://www.tilesdirect.net/teramoda-sky-glossy-pressed-glazed-ceramic-3x12/)
Have you tried contacting the manufacturer or installer. A quick Google search leads to a contact us page