Mosaic tiles are a popular choice for a wide range of projects. In a residential setting they add style to social areas, while in restaurants and bars they can create attractive environments that enhance dining experiences.
Many corporate buildings benefit from mosaic designs that reflect their brand identity helping them present a strong company image to clients and partners.
In the following sections, we’ll explain the process of how to lay mosaic tiles. Today, using mesh backing is the most common practice for installing mosaics. Ideal for projects with tight deadlines, this method helps art consultants and commercial interior designers ensure intricate mosaic shapes are tiled accurately and swiftly. Here we take you through each step involved.
As with any tilework, mosaic installations require a clean and level surface to work with. The most important consideration is that the surface is entirely flat, with no raised bumps or hollows that will disrupt the appearance of your finished design. To resolve any imperfections, apply levelling compound where necessary to create an even canvas for your mosaic layout. Afterwards, make certain the surface is completely clean and free of all dust and debris. Now you can coat the surface with an acrylic priming agent that will facilitate effective adhesion.
If the mosaic forms a pattern, lay out the design to make sure you have the right configuration. Aim to tile from the middle of the room moving outwards for walls and, if tiling a floor, make sure you finish at an exit. When tiling a natural stone look rather than a pattern, plan by ensuring you have plenty of variation spread across the layout. This will provide a more natural finish.
It’s important to select the correct adhesive for mosaic layouts. When the mosaic tiled area is minimal like a design feature or when creating a border, standard wall adhesive will suffice. However, for full walls, splashbacks and tiled washing facilities, a superior product is required that ensures durability. Now apply adhesive to the surface ensuring you spread it evenly. Expert installers recommend using a notched trowel. Choose the tool size that matches the dimensions of mosaics you’re working with. Always work in sections with a methodical approach.
Mosaic tiles and sheets can be cut to fit. You can use a sharp knife to cut through the plastic mesh on the back of the mosaic. However, you can cut individual mosaics to fit using tile nippers.
Push the mosaic sheet into the surface coated in adhesive; you can use spacers if required. Square mosaic sheets are typically affixed using a brick pattern. Ensure you allow for the grout joints, so they have identical spacing in the mosaic design. You can use a grout float with a rubber face to press on the surface of the mosaic. This will effectively embed the mosaic into your adhesive and ensures you level the tile. As you work, make certain that you clean off excess adhesive from the surface of the mosaics to create a perfect finish.
Once the adhesive is dry, you can grout. Choose the right grout and mix as per the product’s instructions. Fill the joints completely with grout, and make sure you don’t leave gaps. As you work, clean any excess grout from the mosaic tiles. You can use a sponge or damp cloth. If you wish, you can also choose to seal the grout.
It is advised that installers wear protective personal equipment (PPE) like goggles and gloves when working.
At Digital Ceramics, we work closely with our clients, taking time to understand project aims. This ensures we provide mosaic tiles perfectly designed to exceed expectations. The custom tiles we created are formed with high-quality ceramics and make use of dependable screen printing informed with the latest digital and marketing innovations on offer today.
As a result, we provide robust mosaic tiles designed for lasting use. All our custom tiles are resistant to abrasion, colour fading and water, and can weather heavy traffic in an indoor or outdoor setting.
To talk about the mosaic tiles that you seek and access a quote, reach out to us at Digital Ceramics today.
Talk to us today and find out how we can transform a project of any scale into an exciting visual experience.
