What to Know About Installing Mosaic Tiles in a Shower

Stand-alone showers offer homeowners an easy place to upgrade the style and look of their bathroom. With the availability of glass mosaic tiles available, the options are endless for color and pattern. The tile installation process for glass mosaics is slightly different than traditional tiles. Here’s what to know as your contractor goes to install the tile.

Select Your Tile

Many flooring and home improvement stores offer a variety of tiles to choose from. Typically glass mosaic tiles come in small sheets with several smaller tiles set in a square or rectangle. While most small tiles come in squares and rectangles, some come in fun shapes such as trapezoids. Consider the color scheme and any pattern you wish to have in the shower. The overall look affects the style in the whole bathroom.

Prepare the Surface

Traditionally in a shower, a contractor installs a waterproof membrane behind the tiles due to the location. However, many glass tiles are transparent enough to see the membrane. The contractor may opt to go with an untreated backerboard to avoid water settling behind the tile. Expansion joints are crucial between the tiles due to the temperature changes in the shower. Builder’s paper adds water protection on the ceiling and walls.

Install the Tile

Once the surface is prepared, the contractor completes the tile installation. The contractor trowels thinset over the surface before placing the tile. The installation moves incrementally as the contractor works with each set of tiles along a specific design. Brown face paper may be used to allow the contractor to apply some pressure to the tiles without damaging the surface. The tile is then grouted, cleaned and sealed.

When the tile installation is complete, you can enjoy the beautiful glass mosaic surround, shower pan and even ceiling. The basics of the installation have been provided, but the contractor can provide a more thorough explanation if requested. Follow the directions of the contractor before using the shower the first time.