How to Install Pebble Mosaic Tile

Install Pebble Mosaic Tile:

Pebble and stone mosaic tiles can be used in an extensive variety of installations. They are appropriate for both indoor and outdoor application. Commercial applications include flooring, feature walls, bar surfaces, and walkways in projects ranging from restaurants to medical facilities, public parks, and corporate offices. Residential installations include pools and pool decks, patios, landscaping, fountains, water features, kitchen backsplash, flooring, shower floors, bath and powder room floors, entryways, fireplaces and BBQ areas.

DIY Network gives you step by step directions on how to lay pebble mosaic tile.

Tile ideas: Preparation and Application

Installation of these tiles is similar to any other natural stone product for best results, we recommend a qualified tradesperson who is experienced in the laying of natural stone product the tiles are sold in 12 inch by 12inch all tiles interlock on all sides sort tiles before installing to ensure an even color layout for a vertical or contoured surface, smaller pebble sizes should be considered as well as a polymer based adhesive with a short hydration period, i.e.: glue setting time Substrates – Area of application should be flat, clean, dry and free of contaminants. For wet areas the use of reinforced waterproof membranes is suggested. In the case of flooring a fall to the drainage point of no less than two inches in required.

Need some pebble tile inspiration? Take a look at these on Houzz.

How to Install Pebble Tiles Video:

Tile Adhesive:

Mosaic tile adhesive – Use only a high quality thinset mortar. The manufacturer’s literature will outline if it is appropriate for indoors or outdoors as well as for floors and walls.
It is important that each pebble is embedded in adhesive, however they should not be pressed deeply into the adhesive. Select a product suitable for application with a ¼” or 1/8” notched trowel and apply no more than three square feet of adhesive at a time.

Sealing and Grouting

It is recommended that the stones be sealed before and after grouting. For the best results use a good quality penetrating sealer. These types of penetrating sealers ordinarily do not change or alter the color of the pebbles. In order to enhance the color of the stones to a deeper matte or glossy finish it is suggested you use natural stone color enhancer or natural stone color and shine enhancer prior to applying the penetrating sealer. A sanded grout that is suitable for external or internal conditions which ever may be the case is recommended. Generally grouts are a water mix but where some flexibility may be needed then a latex additive or similar should be used in the water it is important to wait the interval recommended by the adhesive manufacturer before grouting to minimize dirt ingress between the pebble and avoid the opportunity for dislodging of pebbles grout a small area at a time.when grout has dried, use a stiff bristled brush to scrub excess grout.
After removing most of the grout with a brush use a grout sponge to continue removing grout until the desired finish is achieved.

Pebble Mosaic Tile Control Joints

Joints can be easily formed with two angles, sealant and bond-breaker between them designers may show points at which joints are needed and they are certainly required where tiles join walls or some other building material in the substrate a tile saw may be used to fit edges or corners you can also flip the tile over and cut the desired edge or shape with a sharp cutting instrument OR take individual pebbles off the mesh to fill the gaps ordering extra sheets of tile may be useful for this.

Sealers and Cleaning

It is recommended that the pebbles be sealed with a quality impregnator before grouting and again after the grout has dried completely. To maintain ease of maintenance of natural stone it is recommended that sealants be applied every 2-3 years. Whenever using sealants and cleaners, ensure you follow the manufacturers recommended method of application. The pebbles can be cleaned with neutral mild detergents. The porosity or water absorption in pebbles (natural stone) varies, and therefore staining will occur in different degrees if the stone is unsealed consequently, any spills should be cleaned quickly to lessen the degree of the stain and sealers are highly recommended.

Thinking of installing a stone veneer wall? This tutorial will help!

Should You Install a Tile Roof this Season?

Roof Tiles Cost should be a consideration: 

Many people don’t consider installing a roof made out of tile because they believe that tile is more expensive than other materials. While it is true that tile costs more than wood and asphalt, it is far more durable than either of them. Asphalt lasts longer than wood, but may have some unpleasant effects such as vulnerability to warping and cracking. There is a reason why many homebuilders offer longer warranties on roofs made of clay tile and concrete—they are more durable. Clay tile roofs withstand the test of time and some stand intact for centuries. Many feel justifiably that this makes clay tile a sound investment.

Roof Tile Colors and Aesthetics

When choosing tile you may have several questions and the Tile Roofing Institute can answer many of them concerning aesthetics, choosing colors and more. Clay tile roofs seem quaint to many people, and they bring to mind Spanish villages and sleepy European towns. People who are not partial to red and orange clay tiles may look for other materials, but they may not realize that tile roofs are available in an array of diverse designs and colors. The tiles can be in virtually any shape, whether round, square or diamond-shaped. Some of the designs have a chic modern style in dark colors while others have a colonial feel and mimic the appearance of wood. If you want a roof made of tile that reflects your unique décor and personal taste, consider custom made tiles. The cost may be higher, but you can enjoy a roof that is specially designed for you.

Roofing Materials and Insulation to Protect Against Weather

One widespread notion about a tile roof is that it doesn’t provide adequate protection against extreme weather conditions, will crack easily and does not insulate well. Since tiles allow for proper circulation of air, it can prevent ice from forming on a roof and can keep the home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In addition, clay tile is not combustible and offers fire protection. While tiles that receive a hard pounding from hail in extreme conditions may crack, typically, even in the worst storms, less than ten percent of tiles are damaged. Tiles can be reproduced easily and replaced if there is damage.

Why Choose Tile?

Tile has been the preference of many homebuilders for good reasons. It is durable, attractive has a sturdy appearance. Tiles do not need to be orange, but can be any shape or color and can be custom made in specific designs. Tiles promote healthful circulation of air and can prevent fires. Tile is not the most expensive roofing material and is worth the investment, because it is long-lasting as the centuries-old roofs in Spanish houses demonstrate. The National Park Service has a great article on preserving and caring for your tile roof, as well as the history of tile roofs here. Clay roofs can be used on almost any type of home, large and small, and require some upkeep to ensure the tiles remain intact.

For more outdoor home ideas on Stagetecture, visit our outdoor home archives.

Join Tile of Spain in Miami and Enter to Win a Trip to Spain!

Image via: Stagetecture

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Please join Tile of Spain for the

Ceramic Solutions – Innovations Pushing Boundaries of Design Panel Discussion

When: Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Time: 5:30pm- 8pm

Where: Miami Center for Architecture and Design – First Floor

100 NE 1st Avenue, Miami, Florida 33132

Listen to a panel discussion on the state of the art of ceramics and our ever-changing design world.

RSVP for Tickets

To RSVP and receive your tickets please sign up on Evite here.

Click on the flyer above to be directed to the Evite RSVP location

Highlights of the Evening to Include:

AIA & IDCEC credits available

Mix and mingle with Tile of Spain tile companies

Experience Spanish food & wine

ENTER TO WIN A TRIP TO SPAIN!!

To RSVP and receive your tickets please sign up on Evite here.

I’ll see you there!

-Ronique

New Ravenna Introduces Designer Tile Dimensioni Collection

Città and Coliseum are made from Calacatta marble and pay homage to handcrafted stone while New Leaf is made from metallic glass. The mosaics are perfect for both interior and exterior surfaces.

Città

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An inventive mosaic that creates volume thanks to its faceted design, Città is truly gorgeous. It captures the innate beauty of natural stone and is astonishingly strong and durable. It is ideal for areas with a high amount of traffic. The beauty of Città is that no two pieces are the same. When used together, they create an exceptional look that fits many interiors.

Coliseum

This mosaic is characterized by geometric lines which begin in a classic hex. It is framed by a triple dimensional edge and completed with Venetian honing. It boasts an impressive combination of captivating beauty and incredible hardness. Coliseum adds visual warmth to interior spaces and introduces a unique level of luxury.

New Leaf

Made from metallic glass, New Leaf is impressive through and through. It is available in four hues: Champagne Gold, Rose Gold, Platinum, and Gunmetal. The colors amplify its outstanding beauty and are ideal for adding elegance and sophistication to any room. They add aesthetic value to both residential and commercial settings. New Life is ideal for those who want a classic look that is timeless.

About New Ravenna

New Ravenna specializes in the design and manufacture of glass and stone mosaics. The mosaics are handcrafted and made into murals, decorative borders, medallions, and fields. Each mosaic passes through a rigorous process to ensure it is unique. New Ravenna mosaics are loved by interior designers, architects, and their clients. Sara Baldwin, the founder of New Ravenna, says that the Dimensioni Collection highlights refraction by embellishing every piece of stone and glass to produce surface depth. It captures the stunning textures of Italy.

Which of the mosaics reflects your sense of decorative style?

For more bathroom tile ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Image via: DIY Homes

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Helpful Tips for Choosing the Right Tile for your Remodel

Glass tile

Most people don’t automatically think of glass when considering tiling, but if done well it can be incredibly beautiful. Glass tiles are most frequently used for kitchen backsplashes, walls, trims, and flourishes. They work well as decorative tiles because they can be stained with any number of vibrant colors that won’t fade over time. Glass tiles are also moisture-proof and extremely easy to clean and maintain, so they’re a great choice for people who want something that looks great and doesn’t need a lot of care. The only real drawbacks are that they are fairly expensive, and you don’t really want to use glass tiles for flooring because they can become a potential danger if they break under excessive weight or traffic.

Images via: Drury Designs

Porcelain tile

These clay-based tiles are more versatile than glass and can be used in for showers, walls, countertops, floors, ceilings, backsplashes, and more. That same versatility also carries over to the pricing, because it’s possible to find porcelain tile that will work within any budget. It’s also easy to clean and you can have an image screen-printed onto it to get the look you want, but there are drawbacks. First off, that image is only a façade, so if the porcelain chips, you’ll be left with the tile’s natural color. This might not be an issue except for the fact that porcelain tile is typically just white or gray. Additionally, it’s not easy to cut porcelain tiles, so you may not want it if you’re looking for rounded edges or specific custom shapes.

Ceramic tile

It can be used for everything that porcelain can be used for – at least indoors. Most people don’t like to use ceramic tile outdoors because it has a high moisture content and doesn’t do well in extreme temperatures. In short, it’s comparatively delicate. However, this very problem is also what makes ceramic tile ideal if you want customized shapes or need tiling in an area that’s shapely oddly. Ceramic tile is also one of the most budget-friendly materials out there and requires very little in the way of cleaning and maintenance, so there are definitely reasons you may want some ceramic in your remodel.

Natural stone

Where is natural stone tiling appropriate? Pretty much anywhere. Besides the areas mentioned above, many people also like to use natural stone for their baseboards, tub decks, and grill areas, as well as other outdoor areas like patios. But though stone tiles may look rugged (and great), they’re only in the middle of the pack when it comes to durability, and you’ll spend a lot more time, money, and effort maintaining them than the other options mentioned so far. They should be sealed because they are porous, and you’ll still need to clean them regularly with a non-acidic cleaner or regular soap and water.

Exotic tile

With a name like “exotic tile,” it’s probably no surprise that the materials falling under this category tend to be the most expensive ones out there. The level of durability and maintenance required vary greatly depending on the actual materials you’re using, and some of them require a lot from you. Why use exotic tiles, then? Because you can pretty much get whatever look you’re going for since the materials used are endless – mirrored glass, sea shells, and animal hide (!) just to name a few.

Want to learn even more about possible tile choices? Check out the actual infographic from Drury Designs.

For more DIY ideas for your bathroom or kitchen on Stagetecture, click here.

Regardless of what time of year it is, bathroom and kitchen remodeling are the top priorities for homeowners. Adding value to your home and beautifying it for years to come is enhanced with innovative finishes and glass tile is one of them. Glass Tile Store has a gorgeous new tile that has come out that resembles waves of water and it reminds you of the ocean when installed on your walls. See how this revolutionary product would look gorgeous in your next kitchen or bath remodeling project.

Vertical and Horizontal orientation glass tile is popular in interior design trends:

Idea for vertical orientation glass tile

Image via: Megan Crane Designs, Inc.

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Allure Linear Glass Tile

If you have admired linear glass tile in the traditional horizontal or vertical orientation, have a look at Allure linear glass tile. Available in your choices of all glass, glass and stone blend, glass and marble, or translucent and transparent glass varieties the wave-like pattern is perfect for showers, backsplashes, stove walls, cabana baths or anywhere you’d like to bring the feeling of the ocean and movement into your home.

Receive Samples to See in your Home

Have you ever wanted to visualize tile in your home before you invest? Receive larger 6 x 6 sizes instead of the industry standard 4 x 4 samples to visualize in your home. If you are in the interior design field samples are free.

Here are more benefits for you:

• Original and unique designs
• 365 day return policy
• Free shipping
• 6 month financing to make it easier to afford
• Price matching other competitors

To find Allure Glass Tile visit the Glass Tile Store here and let me know how you enjoyed these beautiful and innovative tiles in your remodeling project.

Idea for horizontal glass tile orientation

Image via: Insignia Kitchen and Bath

Before you install ordinary glass tile have a look at the Allure line from Glass Tile store, you’ll love it’s innovative look and how it makes your kitchen and bath come alive with movement and sophistication.

For more kitchen ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Note: This is a sponsored review and I was compensated for review of the product. Although, all thoughts are strictly my own.

Around this time of year most of us are getting ready to clean house, get ready for the family visits and all sorts of festivities. Such as the graduations, bridal showers, spring break vacation, summer vacation, Fourth of July and more.  Everyone is coming over to eat, laugh and be merry.  There is one item in particular that can help your home to obtain that festive and lively feel for you and your visitors to enjoy.  Tile!

Image via: Sroka Design, Inc.

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Walls

Image via: Caayu

Tile is a true decorative piece that will add culture and difference to any place it is used. Tiled walls are a great way to add texture, color, and variety to any room it is being displayed in.  The tile has a very warm and inviting feel that it brings to the atmosphere which is what guests hope to feel in your home.

Floors

Image via: SubZero Wolf

Look at the tiled flooring within this room.  It has a lot of pattern, a very bold color and can act as the accent within the room.  Notice that with the floor having the rhythm and pattern, the rest of the room has a more simplistic vibe. That is another plus with using tile, it can be used as the art pieces within the space.

Stairs

Image via: Mexican Tiles

Tile the bottom half of your steps.  I know sometimes the stairs can disappear because we never really pay that much attention to them unless we are using them to get somewhere even then they are not so eye catching.  Well turn those steps into the focal point that revitalizes the room that it is occupying.  Have the stairs carry their own flare with each step make them noticeable again especially if the patterns are this amazing.

Tables

Image via: Chateau and Bungalow

Maybe you just want a little color with texture on top then having a tiled table or counter top will be perfect in this case.  If you prefer not having the tile so permanent and all over then setting it in one place that is movable and yet still carries the designs and colors you would like then the tiled table is what you need.  However,  if you would like just a splash of tile that is set within the home but not everywhere then the tiled counter top might be a better choice.  It would have  a similar appeal like with the table yet it would be a permanent fix within your home.

Counter Tops

Image via: Houzz

Now that you have seen some ideas about what tile can offer and bring to your humble abode, try it out see what will work in your home!

For more home ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

There are many types of tiles that can be used for flooring in a home. One common type of tile used for floors in a kitchen and bathroom is ceramic. Ceramic tiles are the best option for design flexibility due to the size, shape, colour, and installation patterns available. If you want to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, then the use of ceramic tile for the floor offers many benefits.

Image via: Lindy Donnelly

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Easy to Maintain

Ceramic tiles are extremely durable and have a low-maintenance surface that is easy to keep clean. The care for a ceramic tile floor requires the use of a sponge or mop and a cleaning solution. Ceramic tile is capable of withstanding frequent traffic and will continue to maintain their appearance when you use walk off mats. The floor will also need to be cleaned regularly with a vacuum cleaner or by using a dry mop.

Resistant to Moisture

The moisture resistant properties of ceramic tile make it the perfect choice for flooring in the kitchen or bathroom. Glazed ceramic tile is extremely dense and collects very little moisture. This means that tiles used in a bathroom or kitchen can easily withstand water and spills from various liquids. Paper towel is all you need to easily clean liquids from ceramic tiles.

Cost Effective

Ceramic tile is very affordable compared to the use of stone and slate. A tile floor will last for a number or years before it will need to be replaced. You will not need to refinish or resurface a ceramic tile floor like you do a typical hardwood floor. This means you will not spend any money to ensure the floor will continue to look fresh and well-maintained.

Increase Home Value

The installation of ceramic tile in your home is a great way to increase its value. Tile cost can easily be recouped if you should decide to sell your home in the future. The installation of a ceramic tile flooring is a great way to add value to your home when remodelling a kitchen or bathroom.

Image via: Matt Sartain

Simple Repairs

Repairs that need to be made to ceramic tile floors are easy to complete. If you have any tiles that are chipped or cracked, then they a single tile can be removed and replaced. You need to grind down the thinset that is under the tile before laying a new tile.

Environmentally Friendly

Ceramic tiles are made from natural materials. The material is versatile and does not retain any odor or any type of allergens. You can find materials in a variety of colours and textures that match the style of any home.

Many Applications

You can add ceramic tiles to the walls in a kitchen to create a backsplash or use the tiles to surround the shower in a bathroom. This type of tile is easily adaptable to a variety of applications based on need and imagination.

If you are in need of flooring options for a remodel, visit Tiles2UOnline to find a variety of tiling solutions for your home.

For more flooring options on Stagetecture, click here.

When it comes to choosing beautiful, long-lasting, and trendy home decor, you simply can’t go wrong with glass tile in the kitchen. Glass has been used in decorating the kitchen for many years, yet it continues to grow in popularity and prestige in both interior decorating trends and worthwhile home improvements.

Image via: LDa Architecture & Interiors

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Where To Use Glass Tiles

If you are looking for a new way to decorate and elaborate the kitchen in your home, consider glass tiles from glasstilestore.com to set your home apart. As you may not realize, there are a variety of different places glass can be used to enhance an otherwise ordinary kitchen.

Here are just a few ideas you may want to consider for your glass kitchen tile:

Kitchen Backsplashes 

In recent years, backsplashes have become a very popular choice in modern kitchen trends. Unlike many other materials, glass can be formed and manipulated into many different beautiful patterns and designs. With these qualities, glass has become a very popular choice to be used in ornate and memorable kitchen backsplashes.

Glass Kitchen Surrounds

Glass kitchen surrounds are another trendy and elegant choice for the modern kitchen decorator. Glass surrounds can be used in many places, such as around islands and bars.

Glass Feature Walls

If you are interested in really setting your kitchen apart, you may want to consider adding a glass feature wall. This will be larger than a backsplash, helping you to enjoy more of the unique and beautiful glass design.

Image via: MJ Lanphier

Benefits Of Using Glass In The Kitchen

Many interior decorating experts and home improvement specialists agree that there are many advantages to using glass tiles in a kitchen design. Here are just 4 of benefits you may want to consider:

1 – In general, glass is usually very easy to clean. With a little bit of cleaning solution and a soft cloth, your glass tiles can easily be cleaned to near perfection. This can make glass a material that is very easy to maintain and look great for a long time.

2 – Glass can usually be tinted to a variety of different colors to add personalization and style to a unique backsplash or a glass kitchen surround.

3 – In comparison to many other popular home building and decorating materials, glass is generally viewed as a much friendlier option for the environment. For many home owners, this alone can make glass the more preferred option for decorating a kitchen.

4 – It just looks good. If you have seen glass tiles used in a kitchen, you most likely already understand how great they can look. Whether you choose to use glass as a decorative backsplash, on an entire wall, or inside the pantries, you can rest assured it will look fabulous in your kitchen and home.

In short, if you are looking for an easy and relatively inexpensive way to spice up your kitchen in a way that you can enjoy for a long time, make sure to consider adding some glass tiles. When you start to see the incredible difference made by just a little bit of glass, you will be happy you did.

For more kitchen & bath ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

A fireplace is not only a precious source of heat in winter but also a big design opportunity. Besides providing a glowing warm inside the home, it provides many renovation possibilities. Look at these ideas to bring attention to your fireplace in your interiors.

Accent the Fireplace Wall

If your fireplace is small, you can create a big impact with it by surrounding it with an accent wall. It will do the job of making the hearth as the focal point of the room. Mosaic or tiles can be used on the wall. Use backlit onyx if you want the fireplace wall to glow. You can also use textured tiles in a color that matches your walls.

Image via: Alinskie

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Renovate Brick Fireplace

A brick fireplace is very common and easy to reface. Painting is the most basic way to give a brick fireplace a new look. White is the most suitable color to use on brick fireplace but lighter shades like cream or pale yellow will be suitable too. You can also install board on top of the bricks and then add tiles of your choice. Marble tiles or slate tiles will give a sleek, contemporary look to the hearth.

Bring an Antique Look

In case if you are an admirer of country style, reface your fireplace with gray river rocks. These neutral-colored stones will not engulf a place and have an earth appeal to give your place a distinctive but old-fashioned look. Alternatively, an antique as well as sophisticated look can be brought by installing ceramic or porcelain tiles in it.

Image via: Flickr

Embellish Fireplace Surroundings

An ornate shelf brackets can give your fireplace an elegant look. Add the brackets just over the mantelpiece or to the wall around the fireplace. After installing the brackets, put the finishing touch by painting them in the same color as the fireplace frame. To enhance the beauty, you can also add fireplace screens, especially if you have a wood-burning hearth. Artistic screens made of wrought iron or stained glass are available that can increase the beauty of the whole room. Do not forget measuring the hearth opening before buying the screen.

Place a Pile of Wood

A pile of wood beside the fireplace can generate a cozy and warm feeling. Even if you have an electric or gas fireplace, consider placing a pile of chopped wood beside it. Either place metal pot filled with lumber or string pine cones on either side of the fireplace.

Image via: Homedit

There is nothing like a fireplace to add a charming feel to your home. Makeover and accessorizing the mantel and fireplace can change the air of your house in an instant.

For more holiday decorating ideas on Stagetecture, click here.