How To Install Mosaic Tile: Part 2 The Reveal
Easily update your bathroom with a gorgeous mosaic tile install
Welcome back to part 2 of our mosaic tile install journey!
The process really isn’t hard and will go pretty quickly if you have all the supplies you need 😉
If you saw part 1 you know this tile project was a little unexpected…
So when we chose our black and white tile from Home Depot we grabbed all the pieces they had but we were still short… 3 pieces!
We waited patiently for the tile to arrive and now that it has we are ready to move onto actually installing it.
IF YOU ARE UNFAMILIAR WITH THE ORC, IT IS AN 8 WEEK ROOM RENOVATION/MAKEOVER CHALLENGE THAT A BUNCH OF REALLY TALENTED BLOGGERS, DESIGNERS, & DIY-ERS PARTICIPATE IN.
THE GOAL IS TO COMPLETELY TRANSFORM ONE SPACE WITHIN 8 WEEKS!
Catch Up Here: Week 1 (design/budget/inspo) / Week 2 (popcorn ceiling removal) / Week 3 (painted tile) / Week 4 (tall board and batten) / Week 5 (mosaic tile install part 1)
Laying Out The Tile
After the cement board has set for at least 24 hours it’s time to lay out the tiles.
To make it easier I like to mark the horizontal and vertical centers so that I can make sure the tile layout is square.
You can start at the center of the room that’s how the professionals do it but honestly that is just not the easier way.
I like to start on the long wall, laying out all the tiles and making all the necessary cuts.
If you don’t have a tile saw you can use a tile cutter, but I highly recommend investing in a wet tile saw if you plan on tiling multiple spaces!
Installing The Tile
After all the tiles are laid out and marked mix the mortar the same way as earlier.
Apply the mortar to the cement board using the trowel to add parallel grooves, this helps the air escape and creates a strong hold between the board and tile.
Start with your first mosaic piece, back buttering it with mortar and laying it in the mortar bed pressing down lighting and checking it’s level.
Continue working until all the tiles are laid.
Applying The Grout
Once the tile has set for 24 hours its time to add the grout!
Use a rubber grout float to push the grout into the tile spaces.
Try and be as clean as possible because cleaning the tiles after the grout is dry is much harder!
Use a sponge to wipe away excess grout and grout haze.
I like to mix a little grout haze remover solution into the water as well.
Once the tile is set and clean apply the sealer!
Half Bathroom Tile Reveal
While it was not in the original plan I am so happy we replaced the old tile with this vintage black and white pattern.
It completely elevated the bathroom and ties in all the vintage elements.
I feel like we are back on track to finish within the 8 weeks and I am so excited to see this design come to life!
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