A question I often get asked, is how to do mosaic tiling? As a relatively time-consuming, labor intensive project, installing mosaic tiles does have a few definite short cuts to completion. As a professional, a contractor does not have the luxury of a “near-perfect” result. His mosaic constructions need to be professionally and artistically perfect. Thus, most professionals opt for the ‘paper’ or ‘mesh’ processes which involve the actual configuration of the tiles to be constructed on a separate surface. (Incidentally, this part of the process is pretty much a given for any installer, professional or otherwise).
Thus arranged in the manner they will appear on the floor or wall, a “mesh” or “paper” is glued to the tops of the tiles to hold them in place. We try and make sure we work with a small enough sample so that the transference will keep the entire integrity of the design in place and unmoved. We then set this “batch” of mosaics onto a thin set applied to the sub surface. By adjusting appropriately, the tiles are set into place and the paper or mesh is extracted. Pressing the tiles into a firmer position adhering to the thin set can be done in any number of ways but preferably with a straight and flat board which should eliminate problems resulting from uneven thicknesses of the mosaics.
Once adhered, the last part is the grouting which follows almost all grout rules: spread evenly and clean thoroughly. Make sure when cleaning to dump and clean the sponge used for cleaning often. With some irregularities on the surface which are pretty routine in ceramic and glass tiles, grout can stick to them. Also, some careful consideration is always necessary in choosing the color of the grouting itself. Inasmuch as many colors and tones are available, there is bound to be a satisfying combination to opt for.
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