If you're thinking of installing a new kitchen backsplash or updating an old one, you'll want to browse the full range of glass tile backsplash ideas.

Kitchen backsplash materials run the gamut from traditional ceramic tile to high-end granite, but glass tile can be an attractive, inexpensive and easy-to-clean alternative.

If you've decided on glass tile for your kitchen backsplash, you're ahead of the game, as you've already done some important planning for your kitchen update. Next, you'll want to decide on the scope of your project—how much glass tile will you need—as well as the style, pattern and color of the tile.

In terms of the amount of glass tile you'll need, this will be determined by the surface area your backsplash will cover. You may choose to cover the entire wall above the kitchen counters with backsplash, or you may decide on a reduced scope that covers only a portion of the wall. Either way, marking off the surface area you'll cover and then measuring the square footage will show you the amount of tile you'll need.

Once you've got the square footage figured out, it's time to think about the style of glass tile you'll feature. The possibilities are just about endless, from sparkling, clear styles to frosted, colored or textured glass. One consideration that may help you decide on a style is whether or not you plan to match the existing design of your kitchen with the new glass tile backsplash or if you'll use the backsplash to add a new, unique visual aesthetic to the space.

A glass tile backsplash is a great way to add color and visual interest to your kitchen, and you'll also find that the tiles can be arranged in an endless array of patterns, adding even more distinct style and design flair. Glass tile is available for backsplashes in just about any style, from rectangular subway tiles to mosaic and penny styles, so the arrangement you decide on will be entirely up to you in the end.

Once you've settled on a style, color and pattern for your glass tile backsplash, it's time for the installation. There are two routes you can choose here—professional installation or the do-it-yourself road. Hiring a contractor to install your backsplash will be more expensive, but it'll save you time, sweat and frustration—especially if this is your first time at the tile rodeo. Some tile styles are easier to install than others—for example, mosaic tile often comes with a mesh backing that allows you to simply stick large sections of tile to the sticky backing, making it a particularly popular choice for first time DIY-ers.