One.Mosaic tilesThe application methods include:
1、Mosaic tile installation using the soft setting method.
When installing mosaics, the process is typically carried out from top to bottom. Before applying the bonding agent, apply a layer of pure cement mortar to the leveled substrate, followed by a 3mm thick paper-faced lime-cement mortar bonding layer. once the bonding layer is firm enough to leave an imprint with your hand, apply a mesh pattern on top. At this stage, the mortar is still relatively soft. Simultaneously, place each mosaic on a wooden board (with the underside facing up), and wipe the bonding surface of the mosaic with a damp cotton cloth, followed by a brush dipped in clean water. Then, apply a 2mm thick layer of cement mortar to the mosaic surface, while simultaneously using a metal trowel to press and push the mortar downwards, and lightly tap the wooden board to consolidate the mortar and eliminate air bubbles. Finally, moisten the bonding layer with water, and carefully adhere the mosaics to the wall according to the mesh pattern, using a wooden hammer to gently tap and press, ensuring a secure bond.
2、Direct Mosaic Tile Application Method
The hard-setting method involves applying water to an already leveled surface, then spreading a layer of cement mortar with a thickness of 1-2 millimeters. This method is then carried out in a manner similar to the soft-setting method. However, a disadvantage of this method is that the control joints created during the leveling process are covered by the cement mortar, making it difficult to apply mosaic tiles seamlessly.
3、 Mosaic tile dry joint grouting method with wet application of putty powder.
Spread fine sand mortar evenly on the back of the mosaic, ensuring it fills the joints. Then, use a trowel to level the mortar, and sprinkle water to moisten the mortar within the joints, forming a mortar-sand mixture. Finally, apply the mosaic using the "soft-setting" method on the wall.It is important to note that the mortar within the joints should be completely filled, and the water should be applied appropriately. If the mortar is too dry, some of the mortar may detach during the removal of the backing paper, leaving voids in the joints. If the mortar is too wet, the mosaic will not adhere properly and cannot be set in place.When using this method to apply the mosaic, the good filling of the joints allows you to skip the step of cleaning the joints. After removing the backing paper, simply wipe the surface lightly.
II. Mosaic Tile Installation Process
Substrate preparation → Apply mortar, create joint grooves → Dampen the substrate → Apply base layer mortar → Apply intermediate layer mortar → Pre-install block support lines → Lay bricks → Dampen the paper → Remove paper and joint → Smooth the joints → Clean the joints.
Three, Mosaic Tile Installation Steps
1. Clean and level the substrate. Mark the desired lines on the wall. Then, apply mosaic adhesive evenly to the substrate, ensuring it aligns with the marked lines, and apply it from above towards the wall surface.
2. The mosaic tiles must be applied according to the specified requirements, with a gap between each tile. After applying each mosaic tile, the surface must be leveled, the angle must be properly aligned, and sufficient pressure must be applied to ensure that the mosaic tiles and the adhesive are firmly bonded.
3. After the mosaic adhesive is completely cured, remove the paper backing from the mosaic tiles. Use a damp sponge to clean the mosaic tiles, removing any remaining paper.
4. Grouting. Use mosaic-specific grout to fill the gaps. If you have chosen a mosaic tile adhesive that combines bonding and grouting, no grouting is required.
5. Cleaning. Use a damp sponge to thoroughly remove any excess grout from the mosaic tile surface, then wipe with a clean cloth.