How to Lay a Mosaic Tile Floor
I don’t know about you, but when it comes to bathroom flooring, I like the look of mosaic tiles. In my opinion, it gives off an old-fashioned vibe that I adore. Laying a mosaic tile floor isn’t that difficult or expensive either, depending on what tiles you buy and from where. I estimate that it will take you roughly a day to install depending on the size of the room. Here’s how to get the job done:
Supplies Needed
In order to complete this project you will need a chalk line, mosaic tiles, tile adhesive, tile nippers, a few 2x4s and a small sheet of plywood. You’ll also need tile spacers, grout, a rubber float, an old tooth brush, a sponge and some clean rags.
Preparing the Room
Start by using a piece of graph paper to map out your mosaic tile design. One of the nice things about mosaic tiles is that they come with a paper or mesh backing. I’d recommend using that backing to your advantage during the configuration process.
You can use the mosaic tile’s backing to mark off your measurements. I have found that doing so makes it easier to complete any necessary cutting or shaping. Once you are satisfied with the design and have your dimensions secured, you can start to lay down the guide boards.
Begin by snapping down a chalk line that is perpendicular to the room’s main door. Afterward, dry lay a row of mosaic tiles alongside the chalk line. If you reach a point where you can no long fit a complete mosaic tile, stop and install a guide board. The guide board should run perpendicular to the chalk line. Hence, it will look like you’ve divided the room into a “T”, with the guide board serving as the “T’s” top.
Preparing the Custom Tiles
Continue by custom cutting any mosaic tiles needed to cover the area between the guide board and the wall. Depending on the size of the room and the amount of time you have available, you may want to make your cuts with either a tile nipper or a snap tile cutter. Once you’ve made your cuts, set those tiles aside and turn your attention towards the other section of the room.
Laying the Mosaic Tiles
Dry lay all the whole mosaic tiles. One you are satisfied with the tiles’ placement, start flipping the mosaic tiles over, a few at a time, and attaching each one to the floor with tile adhesive. Don’t forget to use spacers in order to make sure the tiles line up correctly. Based on my experience, I’d recommend spreading about 3 square feet of adhesive onto the floor at a time and gently dropping the tiles down into it. It is also helpful to have a piece of plywood on hand to use as a tamper.
Proceed by tamping the mosaic tiles in place with the plywood sheet before moving on to the next 3 feet of mosaic tile. You’ll also want to gently wipe away any excess adhesive as you go. Save the installation of the custom cut tiles and the removal of the guide boards until the very end. In my opinion, doing so makes the task easier. After all the tiles are in place, continue by allowing the adhesive to set. Once it sets, you can work on removing the paper backing, if applicable.
Finishing Touches
After the paper is removed, you’ll need to apply the grout. I’d recommend using a rubber float to spread the grout and an old toothbrush handle to create any necessary joints. Finish the job by wiping away any excess grout with a wet sponge and polishing the mosaic tiles with a dry cloth. Be sure to allow the mosaic tile to cure properly before walking on it. Otherwise you could end up with a big mess.
Killeen Gonzalez has a history of completing home improvement projects with her family.
More from this contributor:
How to Deal With Fire Ant Mounds: Personal Experience
5 Keys to Wallpapering Success: Personal Experience
