The first thing to take into account is what sort of base you are gluing onto. I have seen so many people buying a mosaic adhesive and assuming it’s for all mosaic work.
When choosing glue remember to ask yourself what is the surface I am using and what type of tile am I gluing onto it.
From my experience, the following glues have worked for me:
Glass to Glass
I use Liquid Nail’s as it dries clear. Weldbond glue is okay but if you are after a crystal clear finish, for example for a sun catcher or tea light where you need the light to pass through, then Mac glue is a good choice, a little expensive but good results.
Terrocotta, Fibre Cement Sheeting, Cement Pavers.
I use a product called Latircrete Cement which is fantastic for interior or exterior projects.
If your project is going to be hung on the wall, Weldbond is okay but I would suggest sealing your project before and after as Weldbond is water resistant not waterproof.
Glazed Ceramic Surface
We use liquid nail or silicone.
Wood backing
With so many products on offer we usually use Fibre Cement sheeting, although Marine Grade Plywood is used a lot, it is not one i would suggest. Over time you will find Ply can warp and no matter how much sealing you do there is still the chance of moisture setting in. Fibre Cement sheet is cost effective and can be brought from any hardware store (Bunning’s) prepare as usual – Seal first with a suitable sealer.
Stay away from MDF! although a number of our bases are MDF these are laser cut and have a sealed burnt edge when they are cut, this creates a seal. These boards are fine for interior projects as always seal before hand!
Yes it is a good habit to seal your surface before you start gluing down the tiles.
I use a mix of 50/50 PVA and water for a cheap sealant on wood and other surfaces. Porous surfaces like a Terracotta pot need to be sealed inside and out.
When I am grouting an exterior project I add a grout additive to my grout mix. I add half additive and half water solution to the grout mix. This is an added protection for the grout so it does not discolour or go mouldy over time. Davo grout additive is fantastic and available from Bunnings.
Sadly no!
Or in most cases i find that these are sold to consumers without any knowledge of this.
Most tiles that have images glue underneath ar not safe from the sun, Glitter tiles fade stillhave a glitter appearance but lose there brightness, some ceramic with a glaze are not frost resistant, generlly if it is not solid in colour check with your supplier if is is UV protected and still i have had uv protected tiles and they have faded.
If you have brought a special tile and love it and want to use it outside, leave a few out in the sun for about 2 weeks this will give you some indication.
Our studio is based in Marcoola on the Sunshine Coast
We are open to the public 6 days a week.
Monday to Friday 9.30 to 4.00pm
Saturday 9.30 to 1pm
Eftpos is available.
- 00-2kg -$11.00
- 2-4.5 kg $14.50
- 4.5 and over – $16.00