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How To Install Mosaic Tile

The type of installation will dictate the type of adhesive(s) used. Indoor or artisan projects might use a different type of adhesive than that used in
exterior or wet area installations (especially showers and pools/spas). In either case, you should follow all manufacturer guidelines for use to ensure proper adhesion. Or consult a licensed tile contractor for more advise.

For home improvement installations, especially wet areas, a professional, licensed tile contractor should be consulted. This being said, installing mosaic tile can be fun and very rewarding for the DIYer.

Practice on small projects, like stepping stones or mirror frames, prior to large installations like backsplashes and bathrooms. Installation of mosaic tile follows the same basic steps as setting traditional ceramic and natural stone tiles. Just like traditional tile projects, most people choose to grout the final installation. Therefore, when setting mosaic tile be sure to be aware of the mortar/adhesive bed. If the mortar bed is too thick it may ooze up through the grout lines. If you experience this during installation, the mortar should be removed as soon as possible from the grout lines. (If you are installing translucent glass it may help to smooth the mortar bed to avoid the potential of seeing trowel ridges through the tile.)
For mosaic tile a v-notched (typically a 3/16” v-notch) trowel is preferred to a square-notch. White thinset or mastic is also preferred over the traditional gray. (Most big box stores and/or your local tile retailer will have a product in stock to suit your needs). Allow at least 24 hours after tile installation for the adhesive to dry prior to grouting. (Once again follow manufacturer’s guidelines)

How to Grout Mosaic Tile

Supplies needed:

• Disposable container (quart size to large bucket depending on amount of grout needed)
  
• Disposable wood paint stick or drill bit attachment (depending on project)
  
• Clean water for cleaning grout (you will need to change this a few times)
  
• Grout sponge
  
• Grout float (depending on project)
  
• Rubber gloves
  
• Dust mask (dry grout is potentially toxic when inhaled)

Now that you have installed your mosaic tile, you are ready for the final step: Grouting. The first step is to decide whether to use sanded or unsanded grout. Many manufacturers suggest the use of unsanded grout for smaller grout joints; however, most homeowners, artists and installers prefer the look, texture and workability of sanded grout. We always suggest sanded grout, but it is a personal choice.

Choose your grout color. Most manufacturers offer a wide array of grout colors ranging from white to neutral to red to blue to black. The options are stunning and beautiful. Grout color is the most important aspect to finishing your mosaic install so don’t always settle for the choices at the “big box” stores where you may only find a handful of colors.

Chemical and technological advances over the last decade have brought about affordable and high quality grouts and mortars. Consider discussing grout options with your professional installer or local tile distributor. For wet areas and backsplashes you may choose to use an epoxy based grout that is extremely resistant to mold, staining and fading. For most other projects standard sanded grout will suffice.

The amount of grout you will need is dependent on the area of the mosaic tile installation. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for coverage and divide that area in half. The smaller grout joints associated with mosaic tile increases the amount of grout required. Remember, it always preferred to have too much grout than too little.

Before starting, make sure you have your dust mask and gloves on. Scoop the appropriate amount of dry grout into a plastic or disposable container and slowly add water to the dry mixture, stirring with a disposable paint stick as you go. It’s easy to add too much water so be conservative. Once the consistency of your grout is that of cooked oatmeal, allow the grout to slake (or just sit there in its container) for about 15 minutes. Slaking allows the water and the grout to chemically create their bond. Re-stir before applying to the tile.

Begin spreading the grout liberally and working the grout into all grout joints and open spaces, using either a grout float, if your surface is large and flat, or a grout sponge (available at any hardware store). Once the installation is grouted, begin removing excess grout immediately with a lightly dampened grout sponge. (Same one used for applying grout is fine)

Once the excess is removed allow to set for a time, about 15-30 minutes, and begin cleaning the tile with a clean, lightly damp grout sponge. Continually rinse your sponge in clean water and wring out fully. Get fresh water as needed and continue. Be sure that the sponge is not too wet or it will have the effect of pulling the grout out the grout lines. If you see this happening, stop the cleaning process and allow the grout to set up a little longer.

Once the tile is cleaned and you are happy with the look of the grout in the joints allow to set for 24 hours. Once the grout sets you will be able to clean off any haze left on the tile. Your mosaic tile installation is now complete and ready to enjoy.