How To Install Mosaic Tile: Part 1
Easily update your bathroom with a gorgeous mosaic tile install
Usually there is a lot of planning before we take on a bigger project like replacing old tile and installing fresh new mosaic tile but this one took us by surprise…
If you have been following along you know we are renovating our half bathroom for this seasons One Room Challenge.
We started with a blinding lime green space and are slowly but surely turning it into a vintage dark and moody bathroom.
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)
This week while we were moving some plumbing we noticed that the tile I had just spent days painting was actually not properly installed…
The tiles were barely holding on and no cement board was installed underneath them so we had no choice but to start over.
How To Install Mosaic Tile: The Easy Way
Supplies:
- Thin Set Mortar
- Cement Board
- Cement Board Screws
- 1/4 Trowel
- Bucket
First we removed all the old tile, this went way too smoothly 😅
Next, we measured the subfloor and found that one piece was very bowed.
So we cut it out with a circular saw and replaced it with a new piece for subfloor.
Thinset The Cement Board
Now that the floor is prepped it’s time to mix the thin set and lay down the cement board.
Mix the thin set according to instructions, it should have the thickness of peanut butter.
Mix it for 5-10 minutes and let it sit or “Jake” for another 5 minutes.
After it has set mix for 1 more minute.
This mixing process seems a little redundant but its super important for a strong hold!
After the mix is ready spread the mortar onto the subfloor and use your trowel to run parallel notches through it.
Next lay the cement board on top, making sure it is level and set.
Secure it with cement board screws around the edges and throughout the cement board.
Apply a thin layer mortar to the seams and cover with the cement board tape.
Press the tape into the mortar and remove any excess squeeze out.
This has to set for at least 24 hours before you can actually start installing the tile.
That isn’t a concern for us though since not all the tile has completely arrived yet 😅
Stay tuned for next week as we continue the tile install and rush towards the finish line of this half bathroom makeover!
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Painting Tile the Easy Way: Bathroom Makeover
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DIY Tall Board and Batten with Grid Boxes
