Whether designing a retro bathroom, creating a kitchen backsplash or just tiling a shower floor, mosaic tiles have many uses. Natural stone, glass and ceramic tile are all available in mosaic form, creating patterns and styles that will compliment any space.
What Are Mosaics?
Mosaics are tiles of any shape or material measuring 2” or smaller in width or diameter. Mosaic tiles can be mounted on sheets of netting or paper, or can be sold individually as loose tiles.
Ceramic and most stone tiles will normally be mesh backed for ease of installation, while glass mosaics, and mixed material mosaics of different thicknesses will often have brown craft paper applied to their fronts.
Mosaics of different sizes or colors can be grouped on one sheet to create patterns, like basketweaves, or intricate pictures and murals.
Uses for Mosaics
Mosaics can be used anywhere that tile is laid, but there are specific times that a mosaic will be the better choice. Shower floors require the use of tiles 2” or smaller to help accommodate the pitch of the drain. In addition to this, the multiple grout lines between mosaics, help to create a no skid surface for the wet floor.
Traditional bathrooms often use mosaic patterns on the floor, and small bathrooms can benefit from having a mosaic floor as well, as it helps to visually open up the space.
Cutting up sheets of mosaic into borders and accents, can be a very economical way of adding color and design to a room.
Utilizing Mosaic Designs
Besides their many practical uses, there are many ways that mosaics and dress up and accent a space. Create a mosaic backsplash behind the cooktop of the kitchen to draw and focus the eye. Use iridescent glass mosaics on a kid’s bathroom floor for a fun splash of color, and to brighten the space.
Mosaic medallions can be created for foyers and entry ways. Made of polished stone mosaics, these medallions can be inlaid into a wood or tile floor and will make something special out of any home.
Care and Considerations
Mosaic tiles can be cleaned and cared for like any tiles. Natural stone, and crackled ceramic tiles will need to be sealed prior to grouting, and on an ongoing basis to prevent staining.
Since there is a great deal of grout inherent in mosaic designs, try putting a stain resisting additive into the grout as it is being mixed to help impede discoloration and staining as time goes by. Check with the grout seller to see what is available for the brand of grout being used.
Mosaics can add interest and detail to any part of the home. Consider using a custom pattern or blend to pull colors from other areas of the room into the design for a seamless look. Or put a new twist on old patterns by changing the colors in them.
Wherever mosaics are used, they are sure to add beauty and appeal to the home.
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