Glass Mosaics Installation Guide

-----  Read this guide, IN FULL, prior to beginning any installation of Glass Mosaic tile  -----

To ensure proper installation based on unique project and/or site conditions, clients are responsible for hiring a skilled installer that has experience in installing and sealing Glass Mosaic tile.  Zia Tile is not responsible for installation, ongoing care, or issues arising after receipt and installation of product. If client’s installer deviates from the instructions or recommendations below, this may result in costly and undesirable outcomes.

REVIEWING YOUR ORDER

  • Please inspect your order thoroughly, upon receipt.  Zia Tile cannot be held responsible for tiles that have already been installed.
  • To account for cuts, pattern, inherent variation in glass mosaics, and potential breakage in transit, it is strongly recommended that all orders include a minimum of 10-15% overage to avoid costly add-on shipping and schedule delays.  


BEFORE BEGINNING YOUR INSTALLATION

  • All mosaic tiles are shipped on paper backing, it is important to evenly blend the sheets within your boxes to ensure any variation is distributed evenly before beginning your installation.
  • Prior to installation, clean any dust from shipping.
  • If cuts are required for your installation, all saw cuts must be made with a water-cooled tile saw or radial tile cutter.



INSTALLATION

REQUIRED MATERIAL


For placing the tiles: 

  • Sponge
  • Bucket
  • Epoxy thin set mortar 
  • Trowel
  • Epoxy grout
  • Grout float
  • Water-cooled tile saw with diamond edge blade or radial tile cutter



For cleaning Glass Mosaic tiles: 

  • While any cleaning products work well with this tile, we recommend a pH neutral cleaner such as Miracle Sealants Heavy Duty Cleaner (Acid Substitute)



For commercial and/or wet areas:

  • If installing on a flooring surface in a wet or commercial area, slip resistance can be increased by increasing grout joint size and/or applying an anti-slip product after installation is complete. Always consult with your licensed installer on slip specific questions prior to installation and note that Glass Mosaic tile has a DCOF rating of 0.42. See product spec sheet for additional information.


LAYING TILES

  • The underlayment must be uniform and in good condition, a high-quality Epoxy thin set is sufficient to set Glass Mosaic tiles. Cement board or backer board are the most standard substrates. Waterproof underlayments are necessary for wet areas.
  • Remove the paper backing and evenly apply the thin set mixture to the underlayment using a trowel, making sure to apply the mixture in the same direction in order to prevent air pockets from forming.
  • Lay Glass Mosaic tile in accordance with the drying time required for the thin set used, pressing the tiles into place. Ensure the tiles are perfectly flat during installation.
  • Immediately wipe off any residual thin set from the surface of the tiles. Thin set can be incredibly difficult to remove without damaging the tiles if left too long. 
  • After the tiles have been laid, allow the thin set at least 48 hours to cure before grouting.

 


GROUTING

  • Using an Epoxy grout, fill in the gaps between the tiles with a rubber grout float. Grout in small areas, no larger than 2’x2’, at a time.  DO NOT grout the entire installation at once, as the tiles can stain from excess grout that is extremely difficult to remove later. Instead, grout small areas and immediately wipe away the excess grout as you go. Contrasting grout can stain or leave a grout haze and should be avoided unless hand grouting or using a grout bag.  
  • Allow the grout to cure, usually 48 hours.
  • Clean the tiles, removing any residual mortar or debris. Never leave spills, drips, footprints, or any other marks on the tile.
  • ALWAYS cover the tiles with durable paperboard during and after installation to prevent damage and/or staining of the tiles until construction is complete.



ONGOING MAINTENANCE

CLEANING

  • Promptly clean up any spills, especially oil and grease.  Un-cleaned spills can cause stains.
  • While any cleaning products work well with glass mosaics, we recommend a pH-neutral cleaner like Miracle Sealants pH Neutral Tile and Stone Cleaner. For heavier stains, we recommend Miracle Sealants Heavy Duty Cleaner (Acid Substitute). 


INSTALLATION SAFETY

  • Installers should always wear a protective face covering (e.g., dust mask) and eye protection when unpacking, cutting and installing Zia Tile products as well as working with the mortar, sealants, grout and other materials associated with the tile installation process in accordance with California Prop 65. WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. If extensive cutting is required during installation, Zia Tile recommends this work be done outside or in a well-ventilated area. Finally, always be sure to wash your hands well with soap and water after working with tiles and before eating.


VARIATION SCALE


A row of shaded squares ranging from white to dark gray above a scale labeled None, Low, Moderate, High, and Very High. An arrow points to Low, highlighting lightly shaded squares.