Preparing the wall for glass mosaic. Mosaic laying (video): how do-it-yourself mosaic tiles are laid. Fixing mesh tiles

Which is also called a mosaic, looks very elegant. This finishing material seems to pass from the illusory plane of the fairy-tale world to the walls of shower rooms and bathrooms. If you decide to choose this option for finishing the room, you may be unpleasantly surprised by the cost of laying work. That is why you should become more familiar with the installation technology. Perhaps you can master it yourself.

Description of the mosaic

If you will be laying the mosaic with your own hands, then you should take a closer look at this material. Today it is one of the most popular, it is this that has found its application in the design of bathrooms. If we are talking about the kitchen, dressing room or bathroom, then there is no better option at all.

Mosaic can be:

smalt; ceramic;
glass.

The latter variety is the most widely used. Venetian glass forms the basis of this tile, which is why the material has high performance characteristics, among them it is worth highlighting:

impact resistance;
heat resistance;
durability;
frost resistance;
water resistance.

You can lay the mosaic in the jacuzzi or pool. You will be able to create a surface of high reliability with excellent performance. Among other things, it will be possible to get incredible colorful effects. If the mosaic will be laid on the wall, then you can choose its ceramic variety. The material is sold in a wide range of colors. Tiles may have inclusions, stains and other decorative designs.

Scope of use

Among other things, glazed mosaics can be found on sale. Its laying will achieve a non-slip embossed surface. The scope of use of ceramic mosaic is quite wide. It is laid in pools, in bathrooms and on the facades of buildings. If necessary, the surface of the material can be aged. In this case, the color is muted, and the edges are smooth. Smalt mosaic looks like glass. If we compare it with Venetian glass, then the first one contains sodium and potassium salts. Natural substances give the material a play of light.

Preparing for styling

If you will be laying mosaics in the bathroom, then you must remember that during the work you may encounter certain difficulties. This is especially true for beginners. The work surface must be perfectly flat. To carry out work on the installation of the finish, it is necessary to level the surface. Otherwise, the mosaic sheets will repeat the irregularities.

The result is a surface that is aesthetically unappealing. Even plumbing fixtures and proper lighting will not save her. You can level the surface by all possible means, it can be drywall or putty. A leveled wall requires cleaning and primer treatment. Otherwise, the adhesive will lose its adhesive properties.

The mosaic laying technology provides for the elimination of distortions, which can be done using a cement-sand mortar. At the next stage putty is applied in 2 or 3 layers. This surface can be grouted after drying. The dust is swept away, and then a primer is applied to the base.

Adhesive selection

When installing the mosaic, you can use one of several adhesive compositions. The substance can be made on a polymer basis with the addition of cement. Installation is possible with a conventional tile adhesive on which the ceramic finish is laid. The choice of composition for installation depends on the surface. There is no fundamental difference; laying on a plasterboard structure or floor is carried out.

However, it is a completely different matter if the tile must be fixed on a base made of wood or plastic. In this case, you should use special tools for working with these materials. Another important point is that glue of different colors differs in performance properties. White and gray compositions are made with the addition of different types of cement. If you have to work with glass mosaics, it is recommended to choose a light-colored adhesive, because the usual gray composition will give a dirty effect to the transparent finish.

Mosaic laying

For finishing different surfaces of the room, you can choose a mosaic. Laying the mosaic is not difficult. Another coat of primer paint should be applied to the prepared wall. It is necessary to choose the composition of deep penetration. The substance is applied with a brush until a light-colored foam is formed. Priming is necessary to increase adhesion and secure bonding of materials to each other.

The next step is to apply the adhesive composition with a comb. It is recommended to choose a tool whose teeth have a size within 8 mm. The distribution of the composition is carried out as evenly as possible. You should not rush to spend the entire mixture, because it quickly weathers and loses its adhesion properties. You need to apply the composition only on a small area of \u200b\u200bthe wall where you plan to lay the mosaic sheet.

As soon as you lean it against the surface, you need to press a little from above. Mosaic on a grid, which is laid using a technology different from that when the material is used on paper, allows you to control the seams. The material must be applied as a base to the wall. If we are talking about a paper-based mosaic, then it is necessary to act the other way around. The paper will subsequently get wet under the influence of water and will easily come off the decorative surface. The main disadvantage of this option can be considered the inability to control the thickness of the seam.

At the time of laying the mosaic at the corners, the sheet should be wrapped. If the outer or inner corner does not allow this, then the section should be cut. Grout and glue will mask the remnants of the mesh. The mosaic must be leveled by pressing on it with an object with a large area of contact. For this, a grout grater is perfect. There is no need to exert pressure on the tile with your hands. Otherwise, the surface will be uneven.

You can also choose a mosaic as a finishing material. Mosaic laying is quite often done by home craftsmen. The next step is to clean the surface. This stage is carried out on fresh glue. If you are late with these manipulations, then the remnants of the composition will have to be scraped off. To clean the seams, use a screwdriver or a paint spatula. While the adhesive allows, its residues should be removed from the surface, at this time it is possible to adjust the position of some tiles. If you choose the right comb, then the excess glue will not protrude to the surface.

Final works

For a long time and to this day, the mosaic has not lost its relevance. Laying mosaics today is carried out in bathrooms, bathrooms, and pools. If you also decide to follow the experience of the majority, then at the final stage it will be necessary to wipe the seams using special tools. This stage is the most sensitive.

Mosaic pool decoration

Laying mosaics in the pool is carried out according to a special technology. It provides for the choice of adhesive composition with waterproof characteristics. In this case, we are talking about polymer mixtures that are sold in finished form. The mass must remain elastic even after solidification, this will compensate for the load and deflection.

The grout is also selected with water-repellent characteristics, which will provide reliable waterproofing. The technology of pool lining is almost no different from that used in the case of classic surfaces. The only caveat is the laboriousness of the work.

The tile keeps within according to the standard scheme - a seam in a seam. In order to facilitate manipulation, the base should be marked. Installation of finishing is carried out by separate zones. Solid fragments should be located in visible areas. The application of glue is carried out on concrete, while the cladding itself is laid on top.

For grouting, a special waterproofing is used, which, as it will be, will be a waterproof mass. You can use a latex mixture, but epoxy grout is most commonly used for pools. The composition contains resins that harden after drying. They do not let even a drop of water through and reliably protect the glue.

Mosaics can also be used to decorate your pool. Laying the mosaic in this case may be accompanied by additional decoration in the form of grout. Specialists quite often use translucent mastics, to the ingredients of which sparkles are added. The mass is placed in the seams, while trying not to stain the tiles. It will take 2 days to dry. After that, the pool is kept dry for some time until the glue is completely set. After 3 weeks, you can fill its interior with water and enjoy the result.

Conclusion

The cost of laying mosaics should be of interest to you if you do not plan to carry out such work yourself. When purchasing a glass mosaic on a grid, you should be prepared that this material is laid on the floor at a price that is equal to 2,000 rubles. per square meter. Ceramic mosaic on the grid is mounted at a higher cost - 2,300 rubles. per square meter. A piece mosaic without a grid will cost the consumer when laying 3,300 rubles. per square meter. Small tiles are mounted by specialists at a price of 1,300 rubles. per square meter.

Mosaic tiles can add sophistication and originality to even the most nondescript and conservative interior. This material has gained popularity among consumers and is in demand along with other facing materials. Mosaic laying works are more expensive and significantly increase the repair budget. With the advent of mini-tiles on the grid, laying technology has become easier, and it will be possible to implement the intended design project on your own.

Mosaic tiles: the benefits of laying

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

Installing mosaic tiles is a modern, original and stylish interior design solution that allows you to realize various design ideas. Before making the final choice in favor of the 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 trim has similar characteristics to tiled cladding: strength and durability. The aesthetic and attractive appearance of the product is maintained for a long time.
Possibility of mounting on surfaces of various configurations: rounded niches and bath screens. The mosaic panel is easy to cut into pieces of the desired shape - this simplifies laying in hard-to-reach places.
A large assortment of mosaics allows you to create any decorative panel, an interesting pattern or ornament.

Among the disadvantages of mosaic decoration include:

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

The advantages of facing with mosaic tiles exceed its disadvantages. It is better to entrust the laying of a wall or a panel of small mosaics to a professional. In order not to overpay for the work of an experienced master, you can select a small accent zone and lay out a strip of mosaic yourself.

Features of different types of mosaic tiles

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

Stone. Tiles are made of quartz, marble, granite, slate or travertine. This material is highly durable, so it is used not only for wall decoration, but also for floors. Stone mosaic has a natural aesthetics, gives the room a special style. Some manufacturers offer exclusive collections of malachite or agate.
Glass. Ideal for 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 countertops. Glass mosaic with a translucent structure must be attached to a special adhesive.
Ceramic. Expensive material, suitable for finishing any area of \u200b\u200bthe house. The mosaic is covered with a glossy glaze or remains matte. Laying ceramic mini-tiles allows you to get a relief non-slip surface. Ceramics is resistant to mechanical damage and abrasive compositions of detergents.

According to the method of application, a mosaic is distinguished on paper and on a stack. The first option - the tile is covered with a paper base on the front side. 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.

Mosaic tile mesh comes in different types. The most durable and easy to install - polyurethane. They adhere securely to the mosaic and are suitable for installation in damp environments. A cheaper option is products on a gauze mesh. They can be used in areas with low traffic. In high-traffic areas, tiles on a fabric base will quickly become loose and may fall off.

Important! Before buying, you need to make sure that the mesh is firmly fixed on the mini-tile. Even with sagging, the mosaic should not “depart” from the base. During the laying of a defective product, problems may arise - the mosaic will not lay down evenly and the pattern may move.

Foundation Requirements

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

Surface preparation before laying involves the following activities:

Check the evenness of the coating. Minor differences in coating can be corrected with the thickness of the adhesive. However, this method does not always work. Optimum - preliminary plastering and grouting of the surface. With significant differences in the base, it is better to level it using sheets of moisture-resistant drywall.
Clean the surface. Before installing mosaic tiles, it is necessary to remove dirt and dust. The remains of the plaster after grouting must 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 optimally suited for work.

The choice of adhesive for laying mosaic tiles

To perform the installation, it is necessary to choose the right adhesive for mosaic tiles. Three types of adhesive are acceptable:

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

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

Ceramic products - cement glue of white, gray color. For lining a deformable or non-absorbent substrate, an elastic compound should be used; for finishing a stable mineral substrate, any tile adhesive will do.
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 mortar or reactive adhesive.
Glass mosaic. A prerequisite is the white color of the adhesive solution. It can be a cement or polyurethane composition. To finish the pool, bath or shower, add a plasticizer (liquid latex) to the glue. This component will provide the necessary waterproofing of the base. Finishing can be done with epoxy glue.

Important! When lining a swimming pool or bathroom, it is necessary to allow the adhesive to stand for at least two weeks after laying the mosaic. After this period, the container can be filled with water. Finishing work should be carried out at an air temperature of at least + 5 ° C.

Mosaic installation step by step

Marking the tiled base

First you need to make a “dry” layout of the mosaic and mark the base. This is necessary to accurately determine the location of the elements and make sure the color matches. If the layout step is missed, then in the process of work it may turn out that there is a canvas of a different color or format in the batch.

Having laid out the intended pattern on the surface, the parts of the tile must be fixed with adhesive tape and the canvases numbered - this will facilitate the further assembly of the ornament. Following the completed layout, a sketch is created. When developing a drawing of a mosaic tile, some nuances must be taken into account:

It is desirable to lay out the picture from the most illuminated area or from the center of the image. The tile will have to be cut, so the tiles 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 for starting work is any decorative element of the room: a panel, a mirror, a 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 on the floor, it is necessary to mark the boundaries of the location of the mosaic canvas - a laser ruler is optimal for this.

Preparation of tools and glue kneading

Mosaic tile installation kit includes:

moisture resistant primer with antifungal effect;
adhesive composition;
grout;
rubberized spatula for leveling and pressing plates;
notched trowel;
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, the container is poured with water, and then the dry mixture is added;
the solution is mixed twice with an interval of 5 minutes;
the duration of one batch with a mixer is 1 minute at medium speed; Increasing the mixing speed and time may cause the adhesive to thin out.

Laying finishing material

The sequence of laying mosaic tiles:

Apply the adhesive solution to the prepared surface with a notched trowel - grooves should form. At one time it is necessary to cover the area, which will turn out to be lined for half an hour.
Attach the mosaic sheet to the base with the grid down and press it down a little. To evenly distribute the adhesive, the surface can be rolled with a roller. It is necessary to ensure that the distance between the squares remains the same, and the glue does not penetrate the front 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 to two days. Excess adhesive solution must be removed half an hour after fixing the mosaic - it will be difficult to clean the tile later.

Important! Walking on freshly laid tiles is not allowed. Loads are permissible only after the final drying and fixing of the mosaic.

Grout "mosaic" seams

The order of grouting seams:

Prepare grout according to package instructions.
For the convenience of cleaning tiles from traces of grouting, it is advisable to pre-treat the surface with protective sprays. After 20-30 minutes, you can start mashing the seams.
Put grout on the spatula and with wide movements, moving diagonally, fill the seams. The spatula should be slightly pressed down 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 hardens a little, the excess of the mixture must be removed by rubbing a damp hard sponge over the coating. The remains of stubborn 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 the seams. The stone has pores into which the mortar 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 ventilation does not cope with its task. High humidity can cause mold and mildew to grow on the 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 dipped in soapy water. When finished, rinse with water and wipe dry.
The surface of the mosaic must not be rubbed with oily substances, products with phosphoric acid and wax.

Mosaic tiles in the interior: photo ideas

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

Facing the walls and ceiling in the bathroom is a common method for decorating the “wet” zone of an apartment and house.

Mosaic is increasingly being used to design a working apron in the kitchen. This solution gives sophistication and respectability to the traditional interior.

Mosaic tabletop is a bright accent in the interior of the kitchen, living room or bathroom.

Laying mosaic tiles: video

How royally elegant miniature tile looks - the so-called mosaic. The finishing material seems to be moving from a fairy-tale world, an illusory plane onto the walls of bathrooms and shower rooms.

However, the cost of laying mosaics is a genuine shock. Is the complexity of the do-it-yourself mosaic laying technology from the category of fantasy?

Mosaic characteristic

Mosaic tiles are one of the most popular finishing materials that have found application in the design of bathrooms. When it comes to the bathroom, dressing room or kitchen, you won't find a better option.

A mosaic is an intricate pattern assembled from a small number of elements. Of course, the artistic expression of the panel is achieved not by the complexity of the pattern, but by the variety of materials. There is a mosaic:

glass;
ceramic;
smalt.

Glass is considered the most widespread. Venetian glass, from which stunning tiles are created, meets high performance requirements, namely:

impact resistance;
frost resistance;
heat resistance;
water resistance;
durability.

Mosaic laying is possible in the pool, jacuzzi. In addition to reliable performance data, the product creates incredibly colorful effects due to the rich color palette.

Ceramic is identical to standard large tiles. The material is produced in a wide range of colors. The tile can be glazed or contain inclusions such as craquelure, stains. Laying ceramic mosaics in the bathroom will allow you to achieve a relief non-slip surface. Ceramics is stronger than Venetian glass, which is combined with resistance to mechanical damage by abrasive products. The scope of ceramic mosaics is wide - from the facades of buildings to bathrooms and swimming pools. If necessary, the surface of the material can be easily aged. In this case, the edges will be smooth, and the color will be muted.

Smalt mosaic resembles glass. Unlike Venetian glass, potassium and sodium salts should be distinguished in the composition of smalt. Natural substances give the material an indescribable play of color.

Laying smalt ceramics, unlike glass mosaics, allows the use of one color for large surfaces. The fact is that each cell of the smalt is original in its own way, which is expressed by the overflow of shades. The smooth surface perfectly tolerates mechanical loads, including those with the use of abrasive products.

Mosaic preparation

The main difficulty that awaits a beginner before installing tiles lies in the work surface. It must be perfectly level. In order to proceed directly to laying, you should level the surface. Otherwise, mosaic sheets will repeat all the irregularities of the wall or floor.

As a result, an aesthetically unacceptable surface will be obtained, which neither plumbing fixtures nor lighting will save. It is recommended to level the base by all means possible for this, whether it is putty or plasterboard construction.

A leveled wall also needs to be cleaned and primed. Otherwise, the adhesive will lose most of its adhesive properties on a dusty wall.

So, how to prepare the surface for laying mosaics so that the result is like in the video?

If horizontal or vertical distortions are significant, it is necessary to carry out the initial leveling of the surface with a cement-sand mortar.
Then apply two or three layers of putty.
Carry out grout putty after drying.
Sweep away the dust.
Apply primer.

Which glue to choose for mosaic installation?

During installation, you can use several adhesives. The substance may be polymer-based, using cement. In general, the installation of the material allows ordinary tile adhesive, with which ceramic tiles are fixed.

In fairness, we note that the choice of adhesive depends on the surface. So, there is no fundamental difference if the mosaic is laid on the floor or plasterboard construction. It is quite another matter if the tile needs to be securely fixed to a base made of plastic or wood. In this case, you will need a special adhesive to work with these materials.

Another important point - not many are aware that tile adhesive of different colors also differs in performance properties. A different type of cement is added to the gray and white compositions. For example, it is advisable to use light-colored glue for glass mosaics - ordinary gray glue will give a transparent tile a kind of “dirty” effect.

How to lay the mosaic with your own hands?

The installation technology of mosaic tiles is fast and uncomplicated. For example, let's take a look at the process of laying a mosaic on a wall. To optimize your work, we recommend that you perform the following steps in stages:

1. On the prepared flat surface, apply another coat of primer paint. It should be a deep penetration compound. The substance should be applied with a brush until a light-colored foam is formed. Priming has several reasonable explanations:

high adhesion is achieved;
the structure of the surface layer is securely fastened.

2. Apply adhesive with a comb (tooth size up to 8 mm). The glue is applied in an even layer so that the mosaic fits perfectly on the surface. Don't be in a hurry to use up all the glue as it weathers quickly and loses adhesive data. Apply a small amount of the composition to the wall, lay and press the mosaic sheet.

3. Glue the mosaic tiles. There are two types of material - based on paper and mesh. Laying the mosaic on the grid is done with the base to the wall, on paper - vice versa. Subsequently, the paper soaks under the action of water and is easily torn off. The main disadvantage of the second option can be considered the lack of the ability to control the seams.

When laying the mosaic at the corners, it is necessary to wrap the sheet. If the inner or outer corner does not allow this, it is recommended to cut the section. Glue and grout will mask the remnants of the mesh.

4. Align the mosaic by applying gentle pressure with an object with a large area of contact with the tile. For this, a hand grater for grouting is suitable. It is not recommended to put pressure on the tile with your hands. Otherwise, you can get an uneven surface. By means of an even base, the ideal plane of the sheets can be easily achieved. You need to put pressure on the mosaic in such a way that each cell evenly spreads out, taking its position. In other words, you should monitor the uniformity of all seams.

5. Clean up the mosaic. This stage is preferably carried out on fresh stretching glue. If you are late with cleaning, you will have to scrape off the remaining glue. To clean the seams, you can use a screwdriver or a small paint spatula. One way or another, while the glue allows, it is necessary to remove its remnants on the surface, adjust some parts of the tile. Tip from the experienced: if you choose the right comb, excess glue will not stand out on the surface.

6. Rub the seams with a special tool. This is the most scrupulous stage of work, which involves careful grouting of numerous seams. By the way, the consumption of the grout mixture will be several times higher than the performance when grouting large ceramic tiles. For effective grouting, use a wide, flexible rubber trowel. Of course, it is possible to rub each square of the mosaic sheet with jewelry, but this will take not a single hour. Grouting with sweeping movements can effectively and quickly fill the seams with water-repellent material.

After waiting for the final drying of the grout mixture, it is recommended to wipe the entire surface dry. Another tip: if you have laid the mosaic on the kitchen apron, place the stove a little further away, otherwise the material may crack from temperature changes.

Conclusion

Perhaps that's all. In any case, the process of installing tiles is not an extremely complex finishing process. With a high-quality even base and with the obligatory implementation of the recommendations, even a beginner can effectively lay the mosaic. The price of updating the pool or shower in this case will be much more attractive than when contacting the builders.

One of the common facing materials is mosaic tiles. It is distinguished by the material of manufacture, small size and specific styling. In order for the surface to turn out perfect, you need to glue the mosaic tiles according to the technology. It is simple and consists of rules that you need to know.

Types and advantages of mosaic

Mosaic tiles have a wide range of applications. Wall mounted is used in wet areas: baths, bathrooms, pools, etc. Floor, due to its strength, is also used indoors, as well as for arranging paths and sidewalks.

Mosaic has gained wide popularity due to its advantages:

Beautiful appearance.
Invisible seams between tiles.
It is used in the kitchen, in the bathroom, as it is resistant to mechanical and chemical influences, processing with abrasive agents.
Easy care.
Due to the miniature size, it is possible to create various patterns and patterns.

Mosaic tiles are easier to install than tiles, as they are small in size. This makes it possible to lay the material yourself, without resorting to the help of specialists.

Different types of mosaic

There are several types of mosaic tiles depending on the material from which it is made:

mirror;
from natural stone (marble, tuff, jasper, sandstone);
from artificial granite;
ceramic;
from smalt;
from Venetian glass.

The material and texture is different. The following options are possible:

cracked surface effect;
mixed from different colors;
glazed.

Preparing the wall surface for work

To lay mosaic tiles so that they last a long time, you need to prepare the work surface. It is necessary to remove old finishing materials: tiles, paintwork, wallpaper, etc. After that, it is necessary to clean the walls from dust and various contaminants. To do this, you can wash them with a soapy solution. Additionally, you can degrease the surface with a detergent.

The work surface must have good adhesion to the adhesive composition.

After cleaning the walls, you should evaluate the condition they are in: what is their roughness, are there any cracks and potholes. Surface irregularities will show up as gaps between the mosaic chips and the wall will not look perfect. Therefore, the requirements for the surface for laying mosaic tiles are more stringent than for tiles. Walls should be:

clean - free of dirt and dust;
even;
smooth;
with enough adhesive power.

Significant irregularities are eliminated with plaster or putty. After leveling, the walls must be treated with a primer that penetrates deep into the surface and makes it perfectly even. But even after achieving smooth walls, before laying the mosaic on the wall, it is necessary that the work surface has good adhesion to the adhesive composition. This is especially important for rooms with high humidity. For example, in the bathroom, laying mosaics can become more difficult due to the fact that the base coat is unstable to moisture. Poor adhesion can also be with cement or plaster.

The problem of adhesion can be solved by selecting a suitable primer that will provide the necessary conditions for adhesion. In addition, it will also fill in defective areas and level the surface additionally.

Before laying mosaic tiles on the wall, all measurements should be taken correctly. Put markings on the walls, arrange beacons in the right places. In addition, you need to outline where the drawing, pattern, frieze, etc. will be located. Separate mosaic tiles can lay out any inscription.

Selection and preparation of the adhesive composition

For mosaic tiles, two categories are common as adhesives: polymer blends and modified cement mortars. Of the polymer mixtures, Ceresit is the most popular. In the line of this material there are universal products that are suitable for different coatings.

Most requirements are imposed on adhesive compositions, if the mosaic is not just in places with high humidity, but in constant contact with water, for example, in pools, fountains, etc. The technology of laying tile-mosaic materials in this case remains the same, but special attention should be paid to the waterproofing characteristics of the solutions.

To obtain an excellent result after laying the mosaic, it is better to use latex-based adhesives, which are characterized by increased elasticity and wettability. In addition, the advantage of these compositions is the light shades of the mixtures. This makes it possible to choose a shade that matches the color of the mosaic tiles used. An example is latex plasticizers or their analogues: Latexkol-m and Isolastic.

When choosing an adhesive, you should consider the material from which the tile is made. For ceramic, a one-component white cement adhesive is suitable. For glass tiles, you need to use a specially designed adhesive for it. It can consist of two components or be mixtures with latex, rubber and resin.

Before work, you should prepare the required amount of adhesive composition. To do this, you need to take a clean dish, pour water into it and add the prepared glue mixture until the desired density is obtained. The resulting solution must be mixed well and left to ripen for 5 minutes. When buying glue, it is better to consult a specialist.

Technology of laying tile and mosaic materials

In order not to suffer with collecting individual chips into a single whole, you can purchase ready-made panels in the form of squares of the appropriate sizes. Or collect such sheets yourself. Ready assemblies can be of two types:

chips are assembled into a module using paper glued to the front side;
elements are mounted on a grid.

The assembled mesh frame is cut into small modules and mounted directly on the wall in the designated places. There are friezes on sale in the form of borders that make up the sheet. They are glued end to end, forming a continuous line.

To carry out the work, you need to prepare the following tools:

rubber roller;
notched trowel;
wire cutters;
glue;
sponge;
grout.

After the surface is prepared, you need to put the adhesive. Since the mosaic coating is quite thin, you need to properly lay out the glue. First, it is applied with the smooth side of the spatula. In this way, good adhesion of the mosaic to the surface will be ensured. Excess glue is removed using the notched side of the spatula. You need to know how to use a spatula correctly. The tool should be pressed so that no air bubbles remain in the adhesive layer. The angle of inclination to the surface should be about 45 degrees.

When laying mesh panels, slight height deviations in level are allowed, since the tiles are on a single base. In the case of gluing small fragments, additional alignment must be performed. This is done with a trowel with a rubberized edge by applying it to the material. When aligning, you need to control the position of the fragment in length, width and height.

Glue should be applied only to the surface on which you can glue the mosaic. After applying the adhesive, it is immediately necessary to lay the tiles so that the surfaces adhere well. Use a rubber roller to remove air bubbles between the tile and the adhesive.

For precise laying of tiles, after gluing the first fragment, mark the wall for laying the rest. To adjust the level, you can insert spacers in the right places.

To prevent the tile from settling below the set level when it dries, a double gap should be made from below. Thus, the fragment under its own weight will take its position.

If you glue tiles with a paper base, then 20 minutes after the glue has dried, you need to remove the paper from the front side of the tile. To remove it without much effort, the surface must be abundantly moistened with a damp sponge. When the paper gets wet, with confident movements, the mosaic should be freed from the protective coating. Movements should be made from the upper corner to the opposite. During laying, it is necessary to monitor the gaps between the tiles - it should be the same in width.

When 3-4 days pass, the glue is completely dry, you can start grouting. First, the surface of the mosaic should be washed with warm water to remove any glue and paper residue. Then lay out the grout, holding the ironing press at a 45 degree angle, apply it diagonally. After 15 minutes, the surface should be wiped with a dry soft cloth, and then walk along the entire wall with a wet sponge. After 15 minutes, the mosaic should be polished with a dry cloth.

The surface should be treated immediately, because after the plaque has eaten in, it will be difficult to remove.

Thus, laying mosaic tiles is a simple process that beginner builders can do. With the help of a mosaic, you can show individuality by making a unique pattern. Properly laid mosaic will be an excellent alternative to tiles and will last a long time.

Mosaic, made on the wall or floor, becomes the decoration of any room. If you think that laying a mosaic with your own hands is an unrealistic thing, then you are greatly mistaken. Of course, many masters will say that it is difficult to do such work. In some ways, they are right, but if you have a little effort, patience and a sense of taste, then making a mosaic in your home is quite possible. You can use this article as a guide.

Preparing the foundation

Laying out a mosaic (made from special tiles or individual elements) is a creative and challenging undertaking. Here you need to show more diligence and accuracy than when laying ordinary tiles. Increased demands are placed on almost everything.

So, when laying a mosaic, the preparation of the base must be taken more responsibly. If, during the installation of the tile coating, you can slightly correct the location of the tile using the thickness of the adhesive mass, then this will not work. Any bump or depression will be immediately visible. Moreover, such a requirement applies to any plane. Whether you are laying the mosaic on the ceiling, floor or wall, the surface quality must be perfect. Speaking in a popular way - as "under the wallpaper."

When preparing the surface, pay special attention to verticality and horizontality. If the error is more than 1–2 mm for every three meters, then ugly areas may form at the ends. This requirement is especially true for laying mosaics from small tiles, here all the irregularities will be especially noticeable.

To improve adhesion and reduce the porosity of the base, the entire surface must be primed. It is advisable to do this in several layers. If you use transparent tiles in your “picture”, then it is worth covering the surface with tinting. Otherwise, the heterogeneity of the base will be visible through the transparent elements.

When laying mosaics in rooms with high humidity (bathrooms, saunas, etc.), it is required to apply another layer. It will consist of waterproofing impregnation.

We markup

Before you start laying the mosaic, you need to carry out a preliminary markup. This is especially important if you are doing this kind of work for the first time. Sketch first. In this case, you should pay attention to some nuances:

if the room has external corners (boxes or slopes), then the drawing should start from them;
if there is any decorative element on the wall (mirror or panel), then it also becomes a priority;
try to remove all possible trimmings in inconspicuous corners (for example, the corner of the front door).

After the paper sketch is ready, it is transferred to the wall. If the mosaic is laid on the floor, it is desirable to make a “dry” layout.

We apply glue

Now let's figure out how to glue. The adhesive mass must be selected carefully. As a rule, a special adhesive is produced for mosaics. It can be either tinted or white. Here the choice will depend on the tile used (transparent or not). Also pay attention to the base material.

When installing it is worth remembering that the glue hardens quite quickly. After twenty minutes, a film forms on its surface. Therefore, do not apply a large amount at once. It is better to go through no more than one square at a time.

The adhesive is applied with a straight spatula. The layer should not exceed four millimeters. Then they pass over the surface of the adhesive mass with a notched trowel (tooth height not more than 3 mm).

Some professionals apply a thin layer on the tile itself. In this way, a more reliable fastening is achieved. But such a layer should be minimal so that the mosaic looks even.

We mount the mosaic itself

If you know how to install ordinary tiles, then you will quickly figure out how to lay mosaic tiles. The principle is very similar, there are only some nuances.

So, for example, ordinary tiles (when laying on walls) are mounted from below. The bottom row will be the holding base for the top row. There is no need to do this with mosaic tiles. They weigh little, so you can start installation from any place you have planned.

It is better to start the first laying tests from an inconspicuous place. So you can practice a little and make the main part better and more beautiful.

The mosaic tile is leaning against the adhesive mass and pressed lightly. Here you should carefully look at the seams. It is unlikely that it will be possible to use plastic crosses (as is the case with ordinary tiles). Everything needs to be done by eye.

If the adhesive does not immediately set during installation on the walls, then the tile may move out a little. In this case, small cloves will help. They are inserted into the seam and hold the material in place.

As soon as the square is laid, it is necessary to walk on it with a plastic platform with a nozzle made of elastic material. With it, lightly tap the entire finished surface. At the same time, your actions should be moderately strong and short.

Half an hour after laying the square, it is necessary to remove the protruding excess glue. This is done carefully with a stick or brush with a hard bristle. If the mosaic tile has a paper coating, then it must be disposed of on the day of laying. To do this, wet it a little and remove it. Postponing this work for the next day is undesirable. Cured adhesive may be difficult.

We produce grout

Grouting should be started a day after laying. For this work, a rubber spatula is used. Check all seams before grouting. Remove protruding adhesive residues and debris from them. The grout itself is made with strokes in different directions. The last pass must be perpendicular to the previous one.

After applying the grout, the excess must be removed. If you are using waterproof material, then this is done immediately. Water-soluble grout is given for 10-15 minutes, then it is removed with a damp cloth. Remaining plaque can be removed at the end of the day with a soft cloth. On this, all work is completed.

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