Mosaic tile sticker. Do-it-yourself installation of mosaic tiles on paper. Marking the base to be coated

Today there is a huge number of different finishing materials with which you can create original interior indoors, focusing on any area or finishing the entire surface. These products include mosaic tiles, whose decorative possibilities amaze with their diversity.

Types and composition

A wall in a room lined with mosaics, or an entire swimming pool - in any case, the result from using such products will exceed all expectations. Moreover, you can entrust the laying of tiles to a specialist or do it yourself. But in order for the work to be carried out efficiently, a suitable adhesive composition is necessary. Most modern and domestic manufacturers building materials offer the consumer special adhesives for these works.

It is quite difficult to select the highest quality adhesive composition, which will allow you to save on consumption for 1 m2 of working area, since each type of product has individual characteristics and properties.

Types of mosaic glue are classified based on its composition. Three main types of products can be distinguished.

Dry composition

It is produced by adding white or gray cement to the mixture, thereby setting its color. Cement adhesive must be prepared for the work - the powder is mixed with water or latex in the specified proportion. The composition can be elastic, highly elastic and hard. Each of the above adhesive solutions has a narrow scope of application, based on the type of surface from which it is necessary to fix the tiles.

A rigid mixture is used when working with a smooth mineral base, you can safely treat brick or plastered walls, foam blocks, and concrete surfaces with it. Dry mixtures have a positive feature, which concerns their low cost. For non-standard cases, experts prefer to choose mixtures with good elasticity. The use of such products makes sense in situations where it is necessary to lay mosaics on surfaces that do not absorb moisture and have little resistance to temperature fluctuations, for example, for covering “warm” floors.

Elastic compounds perfectly secure products to a base that is subject to vibration, which is important for premises located in buildings located close to the metro or railway.

Dispersion adhesives

This mixture can be used immediately after purchase for mosaic work. It is a one-component adhesive, the main advantage of which is ease of use. The mixture is convenient to apply to substrates in residential premises, since it does not generate any waste or dust when performing the assigned tasks. To treat the surface you do not need a lot of product, the mixture does not dry out and does not lose its properties, it does not need to be kneaded, since the glue in the container is already completely ready for use. After finishing the lining, the container with glue must be tightly closed with a lid. The ease of use of the product more than pays for its cost.

Two-component adhesive

The reactive composition includes a hardener and a base, which react with each other, due to which the product acquires the ability to reliably fix the tiles. Products where the base is an epoxy or polyurethane component are more in demand.

The solution is needed to perform labor-intensive tasks associated with tiling surfaces with mosaics.

And since it does not contain water, the adhesive is used for substrates that are susceptible to moisture, in particular stone surfaces.

It is also successfully used for glass, wood and plastic products.

To work correctly with this glue, you need some experience.– it is applied to a small area with quick and clear movements, since the mixture instantly hardens, after which it can no longer be used.

Therefore, excess adhesive mass of a two-component composition must be promptly removed from the mosaic, since over time it will be quite problematic to remove it from the tile.

Which one is better to choose?

In order not to make a mistake in choosing the composition, it is necessary to take into account the specifics of the base being decorated, the area of operation of the room and the conditions. And also, before purchasing mosaic glue, it would be useful to take into account the time allotted for covering the base. For those cases where very little time is available, it is better to prefer quick-drying products.

A strong and smooth surface will be an ideal base, since the application of the composition will not have any obstacles, the mosaic will be securely fixed on such a wall or ceiling.

Finishing of plaster or cement screed can be done with high quality using any product. Decorating uneven surfaces, laying mosaics on waterproofing or old ceramic tiles is best done with a highly elastic mixture.

An important nuance is the type of mosaic. Based on the specifics of the products, the adhesive composition for the job is selected.

For glass elements, you need to carefully select the fixing mixture, since glass tiles are very capricious in terms of installation. Through the transparent glass elements, the base and materials located below are visible. For this type of mosaic, it is worth buying a white mixture.

Gray composition applied under the tiles can spoil the ornament of the composition, which will negatively affect the appearance of the surface. You can opt for an adhesive solution that contains white cement or polyurethane-based products.

If mirror glass mosaic on a paper base, which is often laid in swimming pools, is used for decoration, elastic glue of any color, even black, is suitable for the work. Such compositions, which will function with moisture, additionally include liquid latex.

Mosaic on mesh or paper has no fundamental differences in terms of the choice of glue. However, the technology for laying sheets requires markings to be applied to the base for an even pattern. When fixing such a mosaic, you need to ensure that the reverse side of the material is completely immersed in the composition.

To select the appropriate adhesive for mosaic tiles natural stone, for example, marble elements for decoration, its variety is first taken into account. Because some breeds may change their color when exposed to moisture. For such work, it is better to purchase a cement or reactive composition.

Ceramic mosaic tiles are resistant to water, so in this case it is necessary to select the adhesive composition based on the type of surface to be covered.

For “diamond” mosaic tiles, which are the most expensive type of decor, allowing you to create a unique design in a room, special adhesive compositions are used; they are included by the manufacturer in the product package and are sold together.

How to use it correctly?

The mosaic canvas consists of a large number of elements on a special basis - mesh, paper, and also a foil backing. This product configuration provides it with high level flexibility, and products can be cut into elements of the desired size.

The adhesion of the adhesive to the base increases if the surface is primed.

Based on the base of the mosaic canvas, gluing the product is carried out using a certain technology. The tiles on a construction mesh base are simply fixed to the surface. No further additional work is required. Canvases on a paper base are first attached with the back side facing out to soak the base, after which it is removed.

After the product has been attached to the base, it must be leveled and recessed into the surface to ensure a uniform arrangement of the elements. Remaining adhesive in the joints between tiles must be removed while it is still fresh, using a spatula. Next comes the most labor-intensive process - grouting the seams between the parts.

Stamps

There are cases when, in order to save money, craftsmen use regular or silicone tile adhesive to cover the surface with mosaics. However, many compositions turn out to be unsuitable for such work due to their consistency, since they will be too thick or, conversely, liquid. In the latter option, the canvas simply will not stay on the base, and the presence of aggressive substances in the composition can harm the decorative material.

The walls of a house decorated with mosaics have always been considered a sign of wealth and good taste. But if earlier, in order to decorate your home, you needed an experienced craftsman who spent months on end laying out intricate patterns, today almost everyone can do such an operation with their own hands. So the topic new article is devoted to the question of how to glue mosaics on the wall.

To get a good result, it is not enough to understand only the process of laying mosaics. It is very important to have an idea about the material from which it is made, since you have to take into account the operating conditions, the quality of the finished surface and much more. So let's talk about everything in order. Let's start with the types of mosaics.

Types of mosaics

Modern mosaic is a small rectangular tile assembled into a layer of a certain size. The basis that holds the segments together is a polymer mesh, silicone or paper. This solution eliminates the need to manually assemble mosaic walls - just apply glue and glue the entire layer.

In addition to increasing the speed of masonry, there is another plus - this finish is bonded to the wall better due to the fact that the mesh base acts as a reinforcing element.

Let's start with the most simple option– ceramic mosaic. In essence, this is an ordinary tile, but reduced in size.

Manufacturers offer solutions with various surfaces: matte, glossy, heterogeneous and even with artificial cracks. The range of colors is also very large, which allows this option to be used in any room or interior.

As you already understand, the main difference between mosaics lies in the material from which it is made - this is what determines its properties and features. Next on our list are glass options; we have combined them into one item, since due to the similarity of properties they are often combined together.

So:

Mirror mosaic– is a panel made of small pieces of mirrors with polished edges. Mosaic walls in the bathroom made from this material visually enlarge the space, adding light and airiness. At the same time, the play of light will easily hide all the unevenness of the walls, if there were any before finishing.
Smalt mosaic- this is a material made from pieces of opaque glass, which during the production process are heated to certain temperatures and subjected to special processing. As a result, the material becomes very durable and resistant to low and high temperatures, while it does not lose its unique beauty. This mosaic is perfect for creating unique panels- all due to the fact that each fragment refracts light differently from the others, and therefore has its own unique shade.
Venetian glass mosaic– this is a multimillion-dollar variety of shades created using special additives during the production process. By working with such mosaics you can create real works of art. Venetian glass is highly durable and durable. Its only drawback is the very high price.

Advice! When buying a mosaic made of smalt and Venetian glass, you can purchase it without a base. This way you can post your own art panel.

Natural stone mosaic made from marble, jasper, sandstone, tuff and other natural stones. It's great for decoration garden paths and floors.

Advice! Be careful when choosing a material, as some types of natural stone do not tolerate moisture, that is, they are not suitable for finishing bathrooms, saunas and swimming pools.

Natural stone mosaic – slate

Our review is completed by a mosaic made of artificial granite., which is made from broken glass mixed with granite or marble dust. This production technology makes it possible to obtain a surface pierced with sparkling crystals, which create a unique play of light spreading as if from inside the product.

Mosaic glue

Today, the areas of use of mosaics have gone far beyond the boundaries of finishing baths and swimming pools (see: Cladding a pool with mosaics: design ideas). Finishing with luxurious mosaics can add a special charm to a bathroom, kitchen or living room.

Thanks to the variety of colors and textures of the material, mosaic allows designers to act boldly and originally, stopping at nothing. And in bringing their crazy ideas to life, such an irreplaceable thing as glue helps, correct selection which guarantees quality work.

The photo above shows one of the representatives of cement-based dry adhesives. This material is the most accessible and widespread.

Let's list its main properties and areas of application:

This glue is made from gray or white cement, which determines the final shade of the mixture, for the preparation of which it is enough to mix the dry base with water or liquid latex.
To work with various substrates, three types of these mixtures are produced: hard, elastic and deformable.
Hard adhesive is used when facing smooth, low-moving surfaces with a mineral base: brickwork, aerated concrete, foam concrete; concrete and plastered surfaces.

If your house is located in close proximity to the metro or railway tracks, then to lay any tiles you will need a deformable adhesive that will compensate for all vibrations and vibrations. In addition to the above, the use of these mixtures is also appropriate when the surface to be finished is constantly exposed to temperature changes and does not absorb moisture well (warm floors, exterior finishing, etc.).

Dispersion glue is ready-made solution from a jar that will become the best option for minor repairs, when it’s scary to get dusty and stain the finished finish. This considerable plus more than compensates for the higher cost of the product.

This material consists of minerals, water and acrylic additives. It is a paste-like mass of medium thickness, which is very convenient to work with.
The glue setting time is on average 40 minutes, which will allow you to accurately adjust the position of the mosaic layer on the wall. Just cover the unprocessed mixture with a lid and you can leave it until next use. This property will be appreciated by inexperienced craftsmen.
Dispersion adhesive is excellent for difficult substrates and provides high-quality fixation even on the surface of old tiles.
In addition to mosaics, this material is used when attaching tiles, clinker tiles (see Finishing with clinker tiles: a universal material for interiors and facades), majolica, glazed tiles and natural stone.

Next up are two-component adhesives based on polyurethane and epoxy resins. They are produced in the form of a ready-made mixture, divided into two parts (base and hardener). When the components are mixed, a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in the formation of a very strong elastic mass.

These compounds are completely waterproof, which makes them an ideal solution for lining swimming pools, bathrooms, baths, laundries and other rooms with high humidity.
Varieties of this glue are divided into three subtypes: flowing; with ultra-fine filler; with mineral filler.
The composition of the material is completely water-free - thanks to this, it is the only correct solution when laying mosaics from materials that do not tolerate moisture well (for example, sandstone).
Reactive adhesive firmly fixes mosaics on smooth surfaces: glass, metal, wood or plastic.

The disadvantages of this material include a very short production time, which makes it inaccessible to beginners. Also, if you do not remove the glue from the surface in time, it will take a lot of effort and time to clean it.

Which glue is right for me

Let's now summarize what we've learned about adhesives. Buying glue for mosaics is the final stage, that is, first you need to know exactly what material will be laid and what base will be prepared for it.

First of all, estimate the time allotted to complete the work. If deadlines are running out, then buy quick-hardening compounds.
From an installation point of view, the most intricate type of mosaic is glass. Due to the fact that this material is transparent, the base of the wall will be visible through it. Therefore, in order not to spoil appearance finishing, buy white glues.
Absolutely any glue is suitable for laying ceramic mosaics, since the entire rough part will be completely hidden behind an opaque surface.
Natural stone is also unpretentious. All you need to know is the material’s resistance to moisture. And if it is low, then we buy epoxy glue.

Ideally, the wall to be finished should be smooth, strong and clean. Applying glue to such a surface will not be difficult, and the strength of the masonry will be very high.

Cement and gypsum screeds are suitable for any type of glue. If you require installation on uneven, moving or finished old tiles surface, then opt for highly elastic compounds. When laying mosaics in very humid environments, use a waterproof adhesive with an adhesion rating of at least 2.5 mPa.

Advice! Before filling a lined pool with water, you must wait at least two weeks after all work has been completed.

Mosaic laying

Now let's talk about the process of preparing the surface and laying mosaics on it.

Surface preparation and installation work

We are deliberately skipping the alignment of the walls, as this is a topic for other articles. Let's imagine that our surface is already ready, and let's begin further processing.

Let's look at the process of preparing a plastered wall. The first thing we need to do is check the surface for the presence of unfilled voids. Unlike tiles, the mosaic must be laid on a completely flat surface. Any hole in the plaster can lead to the fact that a separate element of the mosaic canvas begins to dangle on the reinforcing mesh.
To quickly fill voids, it is convenient to use a metal trowel, which has the necessary rigidity, which allows you to control the applied layer of leveling mixture (it is best to use the material with which the walls were plastered).
The next step is grinding the surface. It is necessary to remove all layers and small irregularities that may interfere with further work.

With plasterboard walls it’s even easier - we seal the seams and visible screw heads. After the putty has completely dried, installation can begin.

But do not forget to first sweep away the dust and prime the surface (see Priming walls and everything on this issue). This procedure will improve adhesion, bind remaining dust and reduce moisture absorption by the base. The same applies to any other surface.

After the above manipulations, you can begin cladding.

For this we need the following tools:

Two buckets: one for mixing glue, the other for rinsing the mixer (you can omit it if you purchased ready-made glue);
Electric drill and mixer attachment;
Construction level and laser level (can be replaced with a hydraulic level);
Notched trowel or trowel for applying glue with a tooth height of 4-6 mm;
Tool for smoothing mosaics (roller or grater);
Tools for marking and cutting.

So let's get started. We start with horizontal markings. Using a level, we determine the lower edge of our surface. If necessary, you can start laying from the center, but then you will have to accurately calculate the height in order to then fit the missing segments into it. If you start laying from the floor, then this will serve as a guide.

Afterwards, you need to make vertical markings. To do this, take a mosaic rug, and, moving it, step by step we mark all future columns. This procedure will show you how best to make the layout and which side to make the cut from if necessary.

Try to hide cut edges in corners and other hard to reach places to make them less noticeable.

Next, mix the glue and, using a regular spatula, apply it to the wall, making sure that the layer is as even as possible. Coat at a time exactly as much wall area as you can cover with mosaics, while avoiding the formation of a film on the surface of the glue.

No matter how hard you try, you will never be able to make the layer perfectly even. This is why a comb is used - only fine-toothed options are suitable for mosaics, which will make the layer minimal. This is necessary to ensure that excess glue does not squeeze out through the seams.

If you don’t find a small enough comb, you can use a larger one - just tilt it towards the plane of the wall, thereby cutting off the excess.

Place a notched trowel perpendicular to the wall and pull the adhesive from bottom to top. If bald spots have formed in some places, spread the glue collected on a spatula over them and stretch again. After you have filled your hand, you can try stretching the mixture in different directions. This technique will make the coupling even stronger.

Don't overdo it at this stage as the seams may move. For final fixation, use a rubber trowel - press it against the entire mosaic canvas, avoiding sliding movements. If necessary, the position of the formation can be adjusted.

Attention! If you are laying a glass mosaic, be sure to coat its back side with a thin layer of glue. Otherwise, grooves of dried glue will be visible through it.

When laying the next sheet, you will need to maintain an indentation that should be equal to the distance between the tiles on the layer. Tile crosses of the required size are suitable for this.

In this manner we cover the entire surface coated with glue, after which we remove the mixture remaining outside the mosaic. By the way, to apply the glue more accurately, use the vertical markings made earlier.

It happens that traces of silicone remain on the edges of mosaic mats - they need to be cut off with a stationery knife. Another feature is that the layers have a protective paper layer on which the direction of the masonry is marked, which does not need to be removed until the glue has completely dried, as it protects the surface from dirt.

What else you need to know when laying mosaics

Let's list the manipulations that you will have to do during cladding.

Cutting is a procedure without which no repair can be completed. Of course, you may be lucky and the width of the wall will exactly match the size of the mosaic. Well, if the sockets fit perfectly at the seams, then you are just lucky. All you need to do is cut through the reinforcing mesh and remove excess elements.

In other cases, you will have to painstakingly cut out each element of the canvas. For straight cutting, it is most convenient to use double-sided roller cutters. Cutting with this tool will not create noise or dust, and the resulting edges will be even and smooth.

When cutting holes in the canvas, things are much more complicated.

We offer two ways:

We remove segments from the canvas with the necessary margin– after which we separate the tiles individually, cut them with roller cutters and cover the socket in parts.
Cutting a hole with a grinder. To do this, transfer the exact markings to the reverse side and gradually cut through necessary elements, beveling the rotating disc at an angle. So, the cut will be more accurate.

Things are much simpler on plasterboard walls. Cutting is done after the surface has completely dried and grouted, simultaneously with the drywall. For this, an electric drill with a diamond bit is used.

Well, what about without grout? infinite number seams? Dilute the grout mixture with water and stir until a homogeneous mass is formed. Apply it to a rubber float and stretch it over the surface of the wall in a circular motion, without missing a single seam.

After you have walked a few square meters, take a damp sponge and carefully wash off the excess mixture. Here it is important to guess the condition of the drying grout. If it is still liquid, then you will wash off more than necessary, and if you miss the moment, then get ready for a tedious cleanup. Typically, such information is indicated on the label of the mixture, but we still recommend conducting a test to avoid mistakes.

If you have fully understood the information provided, then the mosaic on the wall will lie smoothly and beautifully. The video in this article will clearly show how the whole process occurs, so we recommend that you familiarize yourself with it. That's all - success in your endeavors!

The updated design of the kitchen and bathroom will help give the apartment individuality and unusual style. You can quite successfully cope with the task yourself. To do this, you will need to learn how to glue a mosaic and feel free to get to work.

Mosaic ˗ is one of the types facing material, consisting of small rectangles or fragments of other shapes (triangles, ovals, rhombuses, etc.). The variety of shapes, structures and colors opens up possibilities for flights of fancy when decorating the interior.

Manufacturers offer a large selection of facing materials. The mosaic can be pieced or assembled into a specific picture on silicone, paper or polymer based. This assembly method greatly simplifies the work of a craftsman of any level.

A feature of modern mosaics is that the fastening substrate can be used during installation as a reinforcing material, which is a definite advantage when performing the work.

Kinds

The composition of the mosaic is quite diverse. The main materials used to produce cladding:

Ceramics (tiles).

Glass (mirror, smalt).

Natural stone.

Artificial granite.

In order to understand which mosaic to choose, let’s take a closer look at the material from which the cladding is made.

Ceramic mosaic, better known to us as tiles, is produced by firing clay. The durability and environmental friendliness of such a material is the main advantage when choosing.

Available with a glossy or matte surface, or with a pattern on the surface. Withstands loads well on floors and stoves. Glass is the most popular and most famous, used since ancient times. Opens up a wide selection of decorative design Good for decorating small rooms, as it visually expands the space.

Mosaic tiles can add sophistication and originality to even the most unprepossessing and conservative interior. This material has gained popularity among consumers and is in demand along with other facing materials. Mosaic installation work is more expensive and significantly increases the renovation budget. With the advent of mini-tiles on the grid, the installation technology has become simpler, and you can implement your planned design project on your own.

Mosaic tiles: advantages of installation

Mosaic tiles are a popular type of facing material, widely used for decorating bathrooms, saunas, swimming pools, kitchens, living rooms and facades. Mosaics are decorative compositions made from many small glass, ceramic, and mica elements. All parts are fastened on an elastic mesh, forming a flexible finishing material.

Installation of mosaic tiles - modern, original and stylish solution interior design, allowing you to realize different design ideas. Before making the final choice in favor of mosaic, you should familiarize yourself with the features of the cladding:

Small tiles are made from materials that are resistant to high humidity and temperature fluctuations. High wear resistance allows the use of mosaic decor in public places.
Mosaic finishing has similar characteristics to tile cladding: strength and durability. The aesthetic and attractive appearance of the product is maintained for a long time.
Possibility of installation on surfaces of different configurations: round niches and bath screens. The mosaic panel is easy to cut into pieces of the desired shape - this simplifies installation in hard-to-reach places.
A large assortment of mosaics allows you to create any decorative panel, interesting pattern or ornament.

The disadvantages of mosaic finishing include:

high cost of material;
more complex installation compared to conventional installation ceramic tiles;
High-quality mosaic installation requires careful preparation of the base.

The advantages of tiling with mosaic tiles outweigh its disadvantages. It is better to entrust laying a wall or panel of small mosaics to a professional. So as not to overpay for work experienced craftsman You can select a small accent area and lay out a strip of mosaic yourself.

Features of different types of mosaic tiles

Based on the manufacturing materials, the following types of mosaics are distinguished:

Stone. The tiles are made from quartz, marble, granite, slate or travertine. This material is highly durable, so it is used not only for finishing walls, but also for floors. Stone mosaic has a natural aesthetic and gives the room a special style. Some manufacturers offer exclusive collections made of malachite or agate.
Glass. Excellent for covering surfaces exposed to moisture. However, the material is less resistant to impacts and scratches, so it is not recommended for laying on floors or finishing tabletops. Glass mosaics with a translucent structure must be attached with special glue.
Ceramic. An expensive material suitable for finishing any area of the house. The mosaic is covered with a glossy glaze or remains matte. Laying ceramic mini-tiles allows you to get a textured non-slip surface. Ceramics are resistant to mechanical damage and abrasive detergents.

Based on the method of application, a distinction is made between mosaic on paper and on stack. The first option is that the front side of the tile is covered with a paper base. After installation, the paper is removed.

The second option - the mosaic elements on the reverse side are connected by a mesh, which is applied to the adhesive solution. This mosaic is easier to install.

The mesh for mosaic tiles can be different types. The most durable and easy to install are polyurethane. They adhere securely to the mosaic and are suitable for installation in damp environments. More cheap option- products on gauze mesh. Their use is possible in rooms with low traffic. In high traffic areas, tiles on a fabric backing will quickly become loose and may fall off.

Important! Before purchasing, you need to make sure that the mesh is firmly attached to the mini-tile. Even when sagging, the mosaic should not “move away” from the base. When laying a defective product, problems may arise - the mosaic will not lie evenly and the pattern may move.

Base requirements

The mosaic is laid on a flat, smooth base. If this requirement is neglected, then the flexible mesh fabric will repeat all the protrusions and the result will be “embossed”.

Surface preparation before installation involves performing the following activities:

Check the evenness of the coating. Minor differences in the coating can be corrected using the thickness of the glue. However, this method does not always work. Optimally - preliminary plastering and grouting of the surface. If there are significant differences in the base, it is better to level it using sheets of moisture-resistant plasterboard.
Clean the surface. Before you install mosaic tiles, it is necessary to remove dirt and dust. The remaining plaster after grouting should be collected with a vacuum cleaner, and the coating should be wiped with a clean rag.
Prime the base - this will improve the adhesive characteristics of the materials and completely rid the surface of dust. Deep penetration formulations are optimal for the job.

Choosing adhesive for laying mosaic tiles

To perform installation, you need to choose the right adhesive for mosaic tiles. Three types of adhesive composition are acceptable:

dispersive one-component;
cement-based adhesive of rigid or elastic composition;
reactive adhesive solution consisting of 2 components (base and hardener).

When purchasing glue, you need to take into account the type of mosaic tile, the nature of the surface and the room. Recommendations for choosing an adhesive composition based on the tile material:

Ceramic products - white cement glue, gray. For finishing a deformable or non-absorbent base, you must use an elastic composition; for finishing a stable mineral base, any tile adhesive is suitable.
A natural stone. Marble is sensitive to moisture and can change color with prolonged contact, so this mosaic is fixed with a quick-hardening cement composition or reactive adhesive.
Glass mosaic. A prerequisite is the white color of the adhesive solution. This can be a cement or polyurethane composition. To finish a swimming pool, bathtub or shower stall, you need to add a plasticizer (liquid latex) to the glue. This component will provide the necessary waterproofing of the base. Finishing can be done using epoxy glue.

Important! When tiling a pool or bathtub, it is necessary to allow the glue to sit for at least two weeks after laying the mosaic. After this period, the container can be filled with water. Finishing work must be carried out at an air temperature of at least +5°C.

Step-by-step mosaic installation technology

Marking the base to be coated

You must first make a “dry” layout of the mosaic and mark the base. This is necessary to accurately determine the location of the elements and ensure color matching. If the layout step is missed, then during the work it may turn out that the batch contains a canvas of a different color or format.

Having laid out the intended design on the surface, parts of the tile must be secured with tape and the canvases must be numbered - this will facilitate further assembly of the ornament. Following the completed layout, a sketch is created. When developing a drawing of mosaic tiles, you need to take into account some nuances:

It is advisable to lay out the picture from the most illuminated area or from the center of the image. The tiles will have to be cut, so the tile particles should be located along the edges or in the inner corners - in inconspicuous parts.
If there are external corners, the layout of the pattern begins with them. The priority element to start work is any decorative element premises: panel, mirror, niche.

After laying out, numbering and creating a detailed sketch, the mosaic sheets must be carefully folded back into the boxes. On the wall or floor, you need to mark the boundaries of the location of the mosaic canvas - a laser ruler is ideal for this.

Preparing tools and mixing glue

The set of tools for installing mosaic tiles includes:

moisture-resistant primer with antifungal effect;
adhesive composition;
grout;
rubberized spatula for leveling and pressing down slabs;
notched spatula;
roller for priming the surface;
construction mixer for uniform mixing of glue;
container for preparing glue.

Mixing is carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions. In this case, you must adhere to some rules:

First, water is poured into the container, and then the dry mixture is added;
the solution is mixed twice with an interval of 5 minutes;
the duration of one kneading with a mixer is 1 minute at medium speed; Increasing the mixing speed and time may result in thinning of the adhesive.

Laying finishing material

Sequence of laying mosaic tiles:

Apply the adhesive solution to the prepared surface with a notched trowel - grooves should form. At one time you need to cover an area that can be covered within half an hour.
Attach the mosaic sheet to the base with the mesh down and press slightly. To distribute the glue evenly, the surface can be rolled with a roller. It is necessary to ensure that the distance between the squares remains the same, and that the glue does not penetrate onto the front part of the mosaic. To keep the gaps between the elements at the same level, you need to use crosses.
Carefully remove the film and leave the glue to dry for one or two days. Excess adhesive solution must be removed half an hour after fixing the mosaic - it will be difficult to clean the tiles later.

Important! You cannot walk on freshly laid tiles. Loads are allowed only after the mosaic has completely dried and fixed.

Grouting mosaic joints

Grouting order:

Prepare the grout mixture according to the instructions on the package.
To make it easier to clean the tiles from traces of grout, it is advisable to pre-treat the surface with protective sprays. After 20-30 minutes you can start rubbing the seams.
Use a spatula to scoop up the grout and use wide movements, moving diagonally, to fill the seams. The spatula should be pressed down slightly so that the grout is slightly below the level of the mosaic.
The solution must be slightly moistened so that it is saturated with water and does not crack. You can use a damp sponge or a small spray bottle to water the flowers.
After 20 minutes, when the solution has hardened a little, the excess mixture must be removed by running a damp, hard sponge over the coating. The remaining cement dust can be removed with a 5% sulfuric acid solution.
Rinse the mosaic with clean water.

Advice. Marble mosaic requires special care when rubbing joints. The stone has pores into which the solution can penetrate and change the color of the tile.

It is advisable to periodically treat the mosaic coating in the bathroom with special fungicidal agents. This must be done if the ventilation does not cope with its task. High humidity can cause mold and mildew to appear on walls.
For cleaning, it is advisable to choose gel-like detergents without abrasive components.
Contaminated areas of the panel can be wiped with a soft sponge soaked in soapy solution. When finished, rinse with water and wipe dry.
The mosaic surface must not be rubbed with oils, phosphoric acid or wax.

Mosaic tiles in the interior: photo ideas

Decorating the fireplace screen with silver mosaic. The surface shimmers and shimmers under the glare of fire, creating the illusion of movement.

Cladding the walls and ceiling in the bathroom is a common method of decorating the “wet” area of an apartment or house.

Mosaics have increasingly begun to be used to decorate a work apron in the kitchen. This solution adds sophistication and respectability to the traditional interior.

Mosaic table top - bright accent in the interior of a kitchen, living room or bathroom.

Laying mosaic tiles: video

Mosaic tiles have long been used as a finishing material for kitchens and bathrooms. Previously, craftsmen had to lay out each individual element, so laying the mosaic took a lot of time. Now the process has been significantly simplified thanks to mosaics produced on mesh or paper.

Distinguished by its originality compared to ceramic tiles, mosaics allow you to decorate a room and realize your boldest fantasies in the interior. In order to decorate a wall or floor with mosaics in a high-quality manner, you need to understand the features of this process.

Laying mosaic tiles in rooms with high humidity and temperature changes is justified by the high wear resistance and durability of the material. In this case, it is necessary to distinguish between the process of gluing mosaics and tiles.

Mosaic is a finishing material that repeats all the irregularities of the base. Its installation is carried out only on a perfectly flat surface without defects. The shape of the surface does not matter, but it must be thoroughly cleaned of previous coatings. Any unevenness can affect the final result.

Mosaic happens:

glass;
ceramic;
metal;
concrete.

Choosing the Right Glue

Laying mosaic tiles can be done using various adhesive mixtures:

Homemade solution based on sand and water. This is the simplest and cheapest option, which is based on fine sand and high quality cement. The shade of the adhesive mixture depends on the type of cement used. This option is not particularly suitable for a glass surface; it is also better not to place it on a plasterboard wall (the base may become limp).
Standard tile adhesive. This option provides fairly good adhesion, but has a greenish color, which can ruin the appearance of the finish.
Polymer based mixture - optimal choice for rooms with high humidity. It is based on polymer components that ensure quick drying and good fixation. This glue is suitable for any mosaic.
The epoxy composition ensures reliable adhesion. On this basis, the cladding can last more than 10 years. The only disadvantage of this option is its cost (this is the most expensive mixture).
If the material is glued to the countertop, then it is better to use liquid nails instead of tile adhesive.

The difference between mosaics on paper and on mesh

Mosaic tiles on mesh and paper backing are the most popular types of finishes. The second option is cheaper, but it does not allow you to control the seams between individual elements.

Each type has its own rules. The mosaic on the mesh is glued face down, and after the glue has dried, you can immediately proceed to grouting the joints. To install paper-based mosaics, the sheets are applied to the surface with the paper side up, after which you must wait at least a day to continue the process.

Cladding stages

The use of mosaic tiles is quite common: they are used both for finishing a room and for decorating individual elements. In this case, the tiles can be laid on the floor, on the wall, on the ceiling, on the windowsill and on the countertop.

The technology of laying mosaics is not very different from laying tiles, but requires more responsibility. A convenient point when gluing mosaic tiles is their flexibility, which allows you to stretch or narrow the seams.

Glass mosaic is most often used for swimming pools, although it can also be found quite often on walls and floors as panels. The installation of glass mosaics should be planned taking into account lighting, because... horizontal backlight will display all errors.

Tools required for installation:

2 spatulas (smooth and serrated edge);
roller or rubber grater;
building level;
knife;
pencil and ruler.

To lay tiles on the floor, it is better to use a more durable material: stone, marble or porcelain stoneware. Laying marble mosaics - perfect option for bathroom interior. This is the most durable material, used for floor covering. In this case, it is necessary to monitor the color of the selected glue: it should be white, not grey. This is due to the fact that marble quickly absorbs everything and changes its color shade forever.

When arranging a kitchen, bathhouse, or cafe, wooden mosaic cladding is used. This option has a lot of positive properties: strength, soundproofing, durability and uniqueness.

Preparing the foundation

Mosaic tiles should only be laid on a prepared base. After removing the remnants of wallpaper, paint and other coatings, you need to check the plaster. Required condition When preparing to lay tiles, coat with a primer to hide traces of dust and improve adhesive properties. After priming and checking the walls using a level, you can proceed to the next stage.

We carry out the markings

After the primer has completely dried, the surface is marked. First of all, you need to decide how the mosaic will be laid. The choice will depend on your imagination and preferences. In addition to the classic one, there are other options for laying out mosaic tiles:

alternating matte and glossy types;
combining mosaics with tiles;
pixel mosaic;
panels and paintings;
use of hexagonal mosaic.

The location of the mosaic pieces must be carefully marked. When drawing up a sketch, pay attention to the following points:

if there are slopes and boxes in the room, the drawing begins to be laid out from them;
if there is a decorative element in the room, then it is a priority;
Try to hide all possible undercuts in a corner or at the bottom of the floor.

After the sketch is drawn up, it is transferred to the wall.

Apply glue

Gluing mosaic tiles is not difficult, but you need to choose the right glue. When choosing an adhesive composition, the material of the surface on which the tile is laid matters. To prevent the appearance of an unwanted shade, it is better to choose white glue for glass mosaics.

As for the preparation of the glue, the solution is prepared in accordance with the requirements specified on the packaging. After studying the instructions, apply the glue to the surface using a rubber spatula.

It is undesirable to apply glue directly to a surface with a large area, because it dries quickly and forms a film on the wall. It is better to dilute the amount of glue that will be used immediately.

Laying on floors and walls

Laying mosaics with your own hands should begin with those places that catch your eye the most. Unlike the technology for laying ceramic tiles, in this case there is no need for additional support - if the work is done evenly, the mosaic will not slip or fall off. Given the high flexibility of the material, you should not press it with your hands - because of this, the sheets may lie unevenly. The optimal tool in this case would be a silicone roller.

Laying mosaic tiles on a grid:

In this embodiment, the sheet is turned with its front side towards itself, and its back side is completely immersed in the glue.
The sheet is gently pressed with a rubber spatula.
The distance between the mosaic pieces is checked (it should be the same).
The remaining adhesive is removed from the tiles, which are left to dry completely.

Laying on paper base:

Turning the sheet of paper with the paper side towards you, glue it to the wall and tap it with a spatula to distribute it evenly.
After laying the second line, we return to the first and blot the paper with a damp sponge until it begins to easily peel away from the surface. Remove paper from the mosaic from the top corner, getting as close to the surface as possible.
After removal paper base The seams and tiles are leveled with a small spatula.
Before applying grout, the tiles are left to dry for 24 hours.

We produce grout

Grouting is carried out only after the solution has completely dried, and for this a minimum of 2 days must pass. The facing surface is cleaned with a brush and warm water. If there are smudges of glue at the joints, remove any remaining glue with a knife or sharp blade.

The mixture is diluted according to the instructions and applied at an angle of 45°. The grout is left to dry for 20 minutes, after which it is cleaned with a dry cloth to remove any remaining mixture. It is then washed with water and polished after drying.

Mapei grout is a win-win option Italian manufacturer. Its only disadvantage is that it quickly sets to the surface.