Mosaic Floor Installation Manual

How the Mosaic Is Packaged
Once the mosaic is completed, it is divided into two perfectly fitting halves. Then, we create a wooden crate of the appropriate size and place the two halves on top of each other.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another option is to send the mosaic rolled up. Thanks to its flexibility, it can be carefully rolled for transport.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How the Mosaics Are Packaged

  

These methods are used to ensure the mosaic is packed compactly, reducing the risk of damage and meeting the requirements of shipping companies. To unpack, simply open the package and unroll.
During the unpacking process, it is common for a few stones to come loose. This is completely normal, considering the mosaic contains over 3,000 pieces per square meter. Loose pieces can be easily repositioned during installation, when they will be securely fixed again.

 

To Install Your Mosaic Floor, Follow the Instructions Below:

Initial Check:
• Check all the dimensions of the installation site and test the fit of the mosaic in the space before starting the installation. Ensure there is enough space in both width and depth.

Marking the Shape:
• For round mosaics, place the mosaic on the floor and trace its outline before making cuts.
• If the mosaic was shipped in two parts due to transport limitations, join the pieces together properly (they fit perfectly) before marking the floor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thickness and Leveling:
• The mosaic has an average thickness of 1 cm. The installation area should be between 1.1 cm and 1.3 cm deep. If it is not within this range, adjust before proceeding.
• Ensure the surface is flat and clean.

Outdoor Areas:
• Check the slope of the area, ensuring at least a 2% incline to prevent water pooling.
• If the mosaic is installed on an isolated concrete base (radier) or in the center of an outdoor space, the base must slope from the center outward, also with at least 2% incline to avoid rainwater accumulation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Following these steps ensures a safe and long-lasting installation.

 

Schematic Cut of Concrete Base for Mosaic

Mosaic Positioning:
• The mesh backing of the mosaic should face down during installation.

Mortar Preparation:
• Use a tile adhesive preferably in Ivory or Rope colors. Use white grout only for mosaics where blue is the dominant color.
• Spread the mortar evenly using a notched trowel.
• Recommended Brand: Portokoll Adhesive for Mosaics and Tiles, in Ivory or Rope. If unavailable, choose a type AC2 or AC3 adhesive from any brand in similar tones.
• If the mosaic was sent in two parts, join them correctly before marking or laying on the prepared surface.

Installing the Mosaic:
• Position the mosaic and check alignment in all directions.
• Ensure the design is oriented correctly within the space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Use a wooden trowel to lightly tap across the entire surface to level the mosaic.
• Allow the moisture from the adhesive to penetrate the glue used in assembling the mosaic, making it more flexible and adaptable to the space. Continue tapping lightly until the surface is even.

Curing the Mortar:
• Wait the curing time recommended by the adhesive manufacturer before proceeding to the next step.

Applying Grout:
• Use light-colored grout in Ivory or Rope. Use white grout only in mosaics with a predominant blue tone.
• Never use epoxy grout on stone mosaics.
• During application, constantly clean the surface with a sponge or damp cloth to prevent grout from drying on the mosaic. Repeat cleaning several times to ensure the grout is level with the floor.
• Recommended Brand: Portokoll Premium Grout for Mosaics and Tiles or Portokoll Topflex T-Flex Special Grout. If unavailable, choose a premium grout in the recommended tones.
• Contact in Porto Alegre - RS: Marcos Antônio Pfifer - (51) 99949-0057. He can ship to other states if needed.

Final Cleaning:
• One day after grouting, thoroughly clean the mosaic with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.

Finishing:
• This step is specific to stone mosaics and not recommended for ceramic ones.
• Since the mosaic follows the Roman style, the satin finish may slightly fade after grouting due to the sand in the mixture. This creates an “antiqued” effect, highly appreciated in Europe.
• If you prefer to restore the colors, apply a stone varnish:
• Recommended Brands: Hidronorth Multi-use Stone Varnish (gloss) or Coral Acrylic Varnish for Roof Tiles, Bricks, and Stones.
• This varnish can also be used for annual maintenance after a good cleaning.
• Periodic Cleaning: Use a brush, water, and regular detergent.
• Applying the Varnish: Use a paint roller as shown in the image below.

 

Installation on Wood Floors, Vinyl Floors, or Other Non-Ceramic Surfaces:

For vinyl floor applications, follow the same steps as for ceramic floors. Cut the vinyl flooring to the exact size of the mosaic and proceed with fitting and gluing using the special adhesive (tile glue) specified in item 2.
For this installation, apply the adhesive:
• Around the mosaic area, extending about 5mm into the vinyl or wood and onto the subfloor.
• Generously on the interface between the vinyl floor and the mosaic, ensuring secure and long-lasting bonding.

Below, you’ll find video tutorials demonstrating the mosaic installation process:

 

Large Format Mosaic Floor Installation Manual
 

 

Manual for Mosaics Shipped in More Than Two Parts
 

 

Tutorial for Installing Mosaics Shipped in Two or More Parts

 

Mosaic Maintenance Manual

Routine Maintenance
Over time, typically after about 5 years, it’s common for the mosaic to show signs of fading and dark dirt accumulation between the stones. This is due to foot traffic and use, which cause abrasion and buildup.

What to Do?
First, consider your personal style:
• For rustic aesthetics: If you appreciate the marks of time and the European-style weathered look, you can leave the mosaic as is. This won’t harm its structure or adhesive.
• For a newer look: If you prefer a fresh appearance, follow the steps below for efficient maintenance.

 

Maintenance Steps

Acid Cleaning:

• Use a stone-specific acid. We recommend Belinzoni’s strong granite acid (Bert 27). Other national brands also work well.

• Mix 200 ml of water per square meter of mosaic in a bucket.

• Add one capful of product per 50 ml of water.

• Scrub the mosaic using this solution and a stiff-bristle brush to remove dirt and stains.

Complete Drying:

• Wait for the surface to dry completely. Depending on your climate, this can take more than a day.

Applying Stone Varnish:

• Apply the varnish in thin coats, waiting about two hours between each application.

• Repeat until three coats are applied.

Reapplying Grout (Optional):

• If needed, reapply grout using the same material from the original installation.

• Wait 24 hours after applying the grout to dry.

• Clean the surface with a damp cloth and finish by applying one more coat of varnish.

 

Final Result
After completing these steps, your mosaic will regain a fresh, renewed appearance.

 

Additional Resources
Check out our tutorial videos:

 

How to Clean a Mosaic – Tips to Preserve Its Beauty