Mosaic Tiles

About Mosaic Tiles 

Tiles are a cost-effective and versatile feature, easy to install. One of the most favourable choices of architects and DIY-ers are mosaic tiles. They allow for the creation of small embellishments in existing floors and walls, large murals, and various artistic expressions. Mosaics are also an excellent option for swimming pool tiles.

Mosaic Tiles Advantages 

• Water-resistance: Mosaic tiles are made from the same materials as other types of floor or wall tiles, often glazed or stained for added protection. 
• Style: Virtually any shape, colour, and finish can be integrated into a mosaic design.  
• Durability: Mosaic tiles are rigid, resistant to wear and tear, and fit for a kitchen or bathroom. 
• Easy installation: Some mosaic tiles are designed to be grout-free or even peel and stick. 

Types of Mosaic Tiles

Tile Shapes

• Hexagon: Versatile style of hexagon floor tiles is one of the most popular options on the market. Their retro appeal is suitable for both modern and retro looks.
• Square: Classic rectangle and square mosaic tiles are a staple of design, minimal and simplistic, yet attractive.
• Subway tile: Also called metro tiles, subways are more or less popular but never out of style. Their simple design allows for experimenting with mix-and-match patterns and colours. 
• Picket: Picket is a contemporary version of subway tiles with an inherently geometric character. 
• Penny tiles: Small round shapes are modern and visually interesting, suitable for unique embellishments. 
• Arabesque: Curvy, uniquely shaped arabesque tiles add visual dynamics to any surface.

Common Mosaic Tile Patterns

• Herringbone: Classic herringbone tile pattern is one of the most popular ways to arrange subway tiles into a mosaic. It’s intricate and versatile, suitable for various combinations of finishes and colours. 
• Chevron: Chevron is the angled alternative to the herringbone pattern, appreciated for its effective, timeless appeal, ideal for bathroom mosaic tiles.
• Grid: A traditional grid pattern is suitable for any place that requires simplicity. Many types of highly decorative tiles work excellent as a part of the grid pattern. 
• Honeycomb: Mix-and-match set of hexagon tiles is a good polygon for vibrant combinations of different materials, from glazed ceramic to glass mosaic tiles. 

Mosaic Tile Finishes

• Stone: Natural appearance of stone slabs is timeless and versatile, with strong organic flair. Mosaic tiles and stones can feature raw, textured, or sealed finishes.
• Metallic: These finishes are great for modern design and tiny spaces, with added light-reflection benefits. 
• Concrete: Cement-look tile is chic and minimalist, perfect for modern kitchens and bathrooms. 
• Decorative: Designed surfaces with abstract shapes and patterns can be installed anywhere, as an embellishment or an accent feature. 
• Encaustic: Vintage patterns reminiscent of handmade encaustic tiles of the past are a striking visual addition to mosaic arrangements. 

Mosaic Tiles Installation

Mosaics can be arranged piece by piece for an ultimate artistic expression. However, most users prefer more accessible methods of installation. Mosaic tiles are also available pre-arranged, mounted on different sizes of square mesh panels. These panels can be installed in the same way as any floor or wall tiles. 

Mesh squares can be cut into any shape to fit the available space. Once they have firmly adhered to the surface, the grout should be liberally applied to fill all gaps in between pieces.

Maintenance of Mosaic Tiles

Once installed, mosaics are effortless to maintain. If the surface is covered with glaze, gloss or satin finishes, wiping down with a damp cloth and warm water will suffice. Unless the mosaics are outdoors and exposed to strong sun, it’s best to follow a damp cloth with a soft dry one, to remove excess water from tiles and grouts. This last step can be skipped for mosaics with riven or matte finishes. 

Things to Consider When Choosing Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles provide exceptional flexibility in design and application. Porcelain and glazed ceramic mosaic tiles are ideal for splashbacks in the kitchens. Glass tiles are ideal for showers and bathrooms due to their non-porous character, highly resistance to water. They also provide quite a visual feature when installed above bathtubs as a decorative version of ceiling tiles. 

Outdoor kitchens, backyards and swimming pool areas can benefit from glass mosaic tiles, as those are more resistant to elements than ceramic and porcelain tiles. 

The usability of mosaic tiles is not limited to standard places. Creative and decorative patterns can be installed as an accent wall in living areas, in a wide band stretching from floor to ceiling. The fireplace is another excellent spot to surround with subtle mosaic tiles. 

When using mosaics as floor tiles, the same rules apply. For safe walking, their surface must provide traction, while selling for water resistance will extend the life of the tiles.

If you need assistance to find the right mosaic tiles for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.