MOSAIC AND MOSAIC TILES
Mosaic is the process of creating a larger design, by fitting small pieces of coloured glass, stone or other materials, together in a pattern. Placing mosaic tiles is time consuming and requires a meticulous approach. Because of the tiles’ virtually limitless range of colours and materials, it’s currently one of the most versatile, popular and stunning options in tiling. Mosaic tile will always find an application, whether it be traditional walls, pool surfaces, table tops or mirror frames.
Mosaic tiles can be manufactured out of a wide array of materials. You’ll find them available in stainless steel, copper, ceramic, porcelain, stone, cork, glass and pebble. Anything goes. Nowadays mosaic tiles are widely used in bathrooms, kitchens, powder room, and a host of other possible living spaces.
Properties
Glass mosaic is the most renown of mosaic tiles, closely followed by ceramic mosaic
What is glass mosaic?
Glass mosaic is manufactured out of silica (quartz sand) and colour pigment, fired to a temperature of 1000 ° C. Intensive heating creates that famous look of ‘opaque’ glass mosaic. After a cooling down period, the tile surface will show small pores and hairline cracks. These properties are typical to glass mosaic. This specific quality will occur in most mosaic manufacturer’s products.
What is ceramic mosaic?
Ceramic mosaic is made up of entirely different source material. The word itself says it all, as ceramic is manufactured out of china clay. The kaolin granules are moulded into their desired shape, under 2,500-5,000 tons of pressure. The desired colour is achieved afterwards by adding a glazed layer. Firing the tile to a temperature of 1,280 ° C will set its colour.
Ceramic tiles come in a matte or glossy finish, as well as several sizes and shapes. Among ceramic tiles you’ll find, for example: pebble mosaic, stone mosaic, square mosaic tiles and a variety of shapes.
Ceramic mosaic is ideal for areas that tend to get dirty, like kitchens, where grease and dirt are often prevalent. Ceramic tile is, furthermore, easier to clean than its glass variant.
Installation
Mosaic tiles come pre-fixed on mesh sheets or paper.
Mosaic tile manufacturers recommend setting the tile using a flexible adhesive and grout. When used in damp areas, the grout should also be dirt- and water repellent to prohibit the growth of mould.
Mosaic tile floors can be set in a pattern, or in random order; they can be used on working surfaces as well as small table tops.
A major drawback in setting mosaic tiles is that only skilled professionals can guarantee a perfect outcome.
Maintenance
Mosaic tiles are easily maintained using a damp mop and a mild detergent.
Possible stains should be promptly removed using a non-abrasive, synthetic brush.
Ceramic mosaic is ideally suited for areas that tend to soil easily, like kitchens, where grease and dirt are often present. Compared to its glass variant, ceramic tile is easier to clean
Practical questions
Can mosaic tiles be used outdoor?
The vast majority of mosaic tiles are suitable for outdoor use.
Can mosaic tiles be used in combination with radiant floor heating?
It’s absolutely no problem for mosaic tiles to be used in combination with radiant floor heating.
Can mosaic be custom made to order?
Because mosaic consists of small components, it’s ideally suited for customisation, ranging from tiling curved areas, to the execution of the most challenging and creative patterns. Even the in- and exterior surfaces of bath tubs, shower floors and sinks can be adorned with mosaic. Pools can also be splendidly outfitted with mosaic.
