APPLYING ADHESIVE: Apply a good quality latex-modified thinset approved for use with glass mosaic tile. Be sure to use a thinset that is compatible with your substrate and environment (i.e. wet areas or exterior areas). Thinset should be spread using a 3/16" v-notched trowel. Apply the thinset to the surface to be tiled with using a back-and-forth scraping motion in order to maintain good contact between the thinset and your surface. Cover only as much area as you can work within 10-15 minutes, or as long as the thinset remains tacky.
The two best brands we have found are Tec's Superflex latex-modified thinset, TA-392 or TA392 and Mapei's Kerabond mixed with Keralastic. NOTE: Ceramic Tile Mastic WILL NOT WORK with glass tile.
BACK-BUTTERING: Next, spread a thin layer of thinset on the exposed (patterned) side of the glass mosaic tile sheet with the straight edge of your trowel. This back-buttering step is best used for all glass mosaic tile, but is essential in the use of transparent tile, in order to hide the trowel lines on the substrate which might otherwise show through.Back buttering also assures complete adhesion between tile and substrate.NOTE: When back-buttering, it is common for thinset to push through the grout joint and rise above the surface of the tile once the sheet is applied to the wall. For this reason, many installers "set in color", or use the same installation product as both mortar and grout. Check with the manufacturer of the thinset product you choose in order to verify that the product is suitable for this use. If you choose not to set in color, you can remove excess grout as described below.
SETTING: Set your sheets with the PAPER FACING OUT. Sheets should be placed onto the newly trowelled thinset on your surface immediately. DO NOT delay this step, or your thinset will dry and the tiles will not fully adhere to the surface.
LEVELLING: Square the sheet and apply to your surface,then "beat in" gently with a block of wood and hammer or a grouting float to assure 100% adhesion and level surface. Beating in across the sheet joints as you install will better assure a level field across the entire area. Properly beating in and levelling will prevent air bubbles from being trapped between thinset and tile. ALIGNMENT: Align each sheet carefully as it is installed to create uniform grout joints from sheet to sheet.
REMOVING PAPER (1): Wait 15-20 minutes for the thinset to bond. Begin wiping down the paper with a damp sponge and warm water. Rub lightly to avoid disturbing the tile placement. The paper facing will begin to darken as the water is absorbed.
REMOVING PAPER (2): After 2-3 minutes, test a corner of the paper sheet. Pull lightly downward at an angle instead of straight out. If the sheet does not pull away cleanly, sponge again until the paper releases easily. Remove the paper facing as you install the sheets one group at a time. Once the paper has been removed, examine and straighten any joints that are not aligned. This MUST be done while the thinset is still pliable. Do not wait until all of the sheets are installed to begin straightening joints. Repeat these steps until all sheets have been installed.
GROUT PREPARATION: After 24-48 hours, the thinset will be cured, and the tile will be ready for grouting. Use a nylon bristle brush, a sponge, and warm water to clean any glue or paper residue from the tile surface. If necessary, use a utility knife to carefully remove any excess thinset from the joints.
GROUT APPLICATION: With a hard rubber float spread your prepared grout at a 45 degree angle (on a diagonal)across the tile field. After grouting the area, wait 20 minutesbefore you start to clean the excess.
GROUT CLEAN-UP: Wipe excess grout off, first with a dry cloth, such as cheesecloth or any other lint-free cloth to remove excess grout on the tile surface. Follow up with a sponge and warm water. The less water you use, the better, as too much water can weaken the grout before it sets. Once the tile looks clean, go back over it with fresh water and a damp sponge to reduce surface film. Allow tile surfaces to dry for 15 minutes, then buff with a soft cloth until shiny. If you wait longer to clean and buff the tile, the resulting grout haze will become difficult to remove.
CLEANING & SEALING: Once the installation is completely dry (1-2 days) you can safely clean any remaining grout haze or residue with a tile cleaner and scrubbing pad. Once tile is cleaned and dry, seal grout with a good quality sealant to prevent mildew and staining.
NOTICE: This information is offered as a guideline only. No warranty is implied. For best results, hire a professional tile installer experienced in the application of face-mounted glass mosaic tile. Copyright 2004 Mosaic Tile Supplies, LLC
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