Glass mosaic Installation and Maintenance Guide
Glass mosaic Installation and Maintenance Guide
Glass mosaic tiles may be susceptible to scratching in handling, installation and use. Expect a slight color variation from production run to production run.
Usage
Glass mosaics may be installed in most residential wet or dry vertical areas. The co-efficient of friction on glass tiles may not be adequate for use in wet conditions when placed on floors. Some of our glass mosaics cannot be used in showers, submerged areas and steam rooms. Please refer to our Product Usage Chart
Installation
Installing glass tile involves some basic procedures that differ from installing ceramic tile or stone tile. Small size glass tile are best cut with specialty glass mosaic tile cutters and larger sizes such as 2”x2” are best cut with a wet saw. Use a high quality wet saw with a diamond “cut-off” or carbide blade designed for cutting glass tiles.
Make sure that glass tile is installed over the proper substrate. This is one of the most important factors in ensuring a good installation. Make sure that the surface you are tiling is a clean, sound surface and free of dirt, oils, including curing compounds, and sealers. Substrate should be free of cracks and if in water should be waterproof. If necessary, use the installation material manufacturer’s membrane for cracks and water protection.
Particular care should be taken to use the correct adhesive, grout and sealants. Using the wrong setting material can cause damage to the color and beauty of glass mosaic. The installer is responsible for choosing and using the correct installation practices to achieve an acceptable finished product. Mir Group, Inc. is in no way responsible for the damages caused to glass mosaic by using the wrong setting material or grout.
We recommend using a white thin-set mortar or setting material to keep color consistent with the samples. All installation materials should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Grout joints should be packed full and free of all voids and pits. Excess grout should be cleaned from the surface as the work progresses, while grout is fresh and before it hardens. Prior to grouting, test in a small area to make sure the surface does not scratch during grouting.
Grouting may be done after tile is firmly set – approximately 24 hours after installation. Clean the surface with a clean, damp sponge. Allow grout to set firm or until haze forms on the tile and the grout in the joints sets firm. Use a soft, clean, dry cloth to polish off haze and remaining grout residue. Final cleaning of grout haze and tile polishing should be done with clean, dry cheesecloth within 24 hours of grouting.
Maintenance
Glass mosaic is durable and stain resistant, but care should be taken to maintain its lasting beauty. To maximize the life of your mosaic and retain its artistic integrity, please consider the following:
- Use only a mild, pH-neutral detergent cleaner and damp sponge or rag to clean your mosaic. We recommend the use of the DuPont? StoneTech? Professional Stone & Tile Cleaner for maintenance and cleaning of the surface.
- Do not use acid, alkaline, and solvent-based cleaners. They can damage and/or discolor the tiles and the grout.
- Do not wax any part of your mosaic.
- Do not let stains sit on your mosaic’s surface for extended periods. Clean promptly.
