August 07, 2024

Why Use Paper Face for Mosaic Installations?

The beauty of mosaics is evident to most architects, designers and installers. What is less obvious are the specification details and installation techniques that should be used to ensure an expert installation.

There are several types of mounting methods for mosaic tiles, and each has its strengths and weaknesses. Lunada Bay Tile and experienced tile installation professionals prefer paper-face mounting.

* The biggest advantages of paper face tiles are being able to make adjustments during your set rather than the day after, and avoiding annoying sheet lines.

** The sign of true craftsmanship can be found in the smallest of details.

Paper-faced tiles are tiles with a paper covering on the front. The paper allows the tiles to adhere directly to thinset. The paper facing is removed with water after the tiles have been installed.

Hand installation with paper sheeting is considered the premium mounting method for experienced installers who follow the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook for Ceramic, Glass, and Stone Tile Installation. These standards are written for architects, designers, general contractors and tile installers in an effort to help professionals in the industry communicate clearly and ensure successful tile installations.

There are many benefits to the paper-faced mounting method. The paper allows a direct bond to the back of the tile while allowing for high degree of adjustability. Tile contractors are able to make adjustments during the set, rather than the day after, and avoid annoying sheet lines. The paper sheets also make it easier to negotiate radius conditions and other curving shapes.

BENEFITS OF PAPER-FACED MOSAIC SHEETS:

Easy adjustment of individual tiles while mortar is still workable
Avoids annoying sheet lines
Ensures possibility of 100% coverage for best bond of tile to substrates
No material between the tiles and adhesive to weaken bond
No mesh material to feed and promote bacteria growth
Allows maximized bond to vitrified materials
Allows uniform mortar shrinkage and cure
No mounting material to be seen through transparent glass
Paper is easily removed with minimal water 20-30 minutes after installation
Entire process is easy to accomplish with a little patience

PRO TIP: When removing the paper face, leave some of the paper adhesive prior to grouting. The left-over adhesive on top of the glass provides a perfect grout release. No additional grout release will be needed.

The sign of true craftsmanship is seen in the smallest details, and paper-faced mounting of mosaics allows for a high level of detail during installation.

TCNA provides information on A108.16, an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard that provides best practices for installing glass mosaic tiles, including paper-faced, back-mounted, edge-mounted, or clear film face-mounted tiles. The standard was published in 2005 and reaffirmed in 2020. Both the TCNA Handbook and ANSI A108-A118-A136.1 American National Specifications for the Installation of Ceramic Tile are available for purchase through TCNA and ANSI.

Paper + Patience = Beautiful, Reliable Tile Installations

See our installation guides and videos, including advice for removing paper face and making tile adjustments, at LunadaBayTile.com/Resources

You can click here for a downloadable PDF on the benefits of paper face.

Hand Crafted Glass Tile Characteristics ,

Sophistication And Craftmanship Produced Daily

It is often said that life is not perfect. When considered, natural, organic beauty is not “perfect”. Whether it is dimples, freckles, or some out-of-the-ordinary quality – these characteristics have become signs of uniqueness and beauty resulting from the nuances of life, genetics, and chance.

At Lunada Bay Tile, we inject life into our tiles. Every one of our handcrafted glass tiles is formed and manipulated by our skilled artisans. They apply both traditional craftmanship and modern techniques to create effects unlike any other source in the industry.

Each piece of glass tile is imbued with character and traits from our creative process. The results offer a mix of sophistication and craftmanship many people are looking for today. For those people, our tiles provide the simple joy of hand-made objects and the endless details discovered in them over time.

Common, natural characteristics of our handmade glass tiles include:

Variation in color, shade, and size
Surface texture (such as fissures, folds, and bubbles)
Minor edge irregularities (including occasional chipped edges)
No two tiles are exactly the same

Important Note: These surface characteristics are not within the body of glass and do not create structural problems or sacrifice the integrity of the tiles. Through all performance testing, the results are the same for tiles with these surface characteristics and without.

For Best Results With Your Glass Tile Installation

It is important to take the time and care to fully clean and polish the tile surface as the final step of installation. When tiles are not fully cleaned, and grout remains in a fissure or other surface characteristic, the tile may appear as if cracked or lead one to believe there are flaws in the glass. Fully completing all steps of the installation process will restore the natural luster to the glass and promote the enjoyment, beauty, and other inherent benefits of the glass tiles through many years ahead.

Visit the Resources section of our website for written instructions and tutorial videos as well as recommendations for care & maintenance of our glass tiles.

Before purchasing our tiles, be sure to review the Recommended Usage & Floor Applications to confirm your tile selection can be used in your space.

Click here for a downloadable PDF of this post.

Six Benefits of Choosing Hand-Crafted Glass Tile from Lunada Bay Tile ,

Glass tile has been a popular option in both home and commercial design, and for good reason. Its unique characteristics offer a range of benefits that can enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of any space.

Lunada Bay Tile designs, manufactures, and stocks hand-crafted glass tiles with these benefits in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes.

Whether you are planning a kitchen backsplash, a bathroom renovation, decorative feature wall, pool and spa, restaurant, hotel, or anything else – here are six benefits of hand-crafted glass tile:

(Agate 1-1/4 x 5 Brick in Amalfi Pearl)

1. Aesthetic Appeal

One of the most significant advantages of glass tile is its stunning visual appeal. Lunada Bay Tile offers a variety of distinctive designs, colors, textures, and finishes in their hand-crafted glass tile collection. This extensive selection allows homeowners and designers to create customized looks that reflect personal style and vision.

The reflective quality of glass tiles can add depth and vibrancy to any space, making them an excellent choice for both contemporary and traditional designs. Whether you prefer bold colors or subtle hues, a sleek modern feel or a classic touch, there’s a perfect tile to enhance your project.

On top of this, each piece of hand-crafted glass tile is unique, showcasing the artistry and skill of the artisans. The attention to detail in each tile adds a personal touch that mass-produced tiles simply cannot match. This ensures your installation will have a one-of-a-kind aesthetic, setting your space apart from others.

Click here, to learn more about the characteristics of hand-crafted glass tiles.

Images of glass tile used in kitchen, outdoors, bathroom, pool, and floor

(Clockwise, starting upper left: Textile Bargello in Mica, Tozen 1x2 in Iodine Natural, Tozen Penny Rounds in Ahou Silk, JAW (Just Add Water) in Amalfi, Agate 1" Hex in Bari Silk)

2. Versatility in Applications

Hand-crafted glass tiles from Lunada Bay Tile are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, from kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls and flooring to pools, spas and outdoor spaces. This adaptability allows for creative freedom, enabling homeowners, designers and architects to create cohesive designs throughout a home, business or other space by integrating glass tiles seamlessly into different areas or rooms. It’s easy to see why this versatility makes glass tiles a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects.

Always review the Applications & Testing charts found on all of our product pages, or in our Resources section, to confirm the tile is right for your application before purchase.

(Tozen 1x4 Herringbone in Oxygen Natural)

3. Light Reflection and Brightness

The reflective properties of glass tiles help to brighten spaces and create an illusion of depth. Lunada Bay Tile's glass tiles can enhance natural light, making rooms feel brighter, and more open and airy. This is particularly beneficial in smaller areas or rooms that don't receive much natural light. By incorporating glass tiles into your design, you can enhance the overall brightness of the room, creating a more inviting atmosphere. This reflective quality also works wonders in kitchens and bathrooms, where good lighting is essential.

4. Durability and Longevity with High-Quality Materials

While glass may seem delicate in their beauty, glass tiles are highly durable. They are resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making them an ideal choice for a large variety of spaces and environments. With proper installation and care, glass tiles from Lunada Bay Tile will maintain their beauty and integrity for years without showing signs of wear. This longevity makes them a smart investment for homeowners looking for a long-lasting solution.

(Agate 1x4 Brick in Lucca Pearl)

5. Easy Maintenance

Another benefit of hand-crafted glass tile is its ease of maintenance. Lunada Bay Tile’s glass products are non-porous, meaning they resist stains and odors. Glass tiles can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water. The non-porous surface also makes glass tiles a perfect hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

To learn more about Care & Maintenance of our glass tiles, click here.

6. Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability is a key consideration for many homeowners today. Lunada Bay Tile offers eco-friendly glass tiles made from post-consumer recycled materials, helping you make a responsible choice for the environment. Choosing these tiles not only beautifies your home but also contributes to a greener planet.

Learn more about the recycled content of our Glass.

Whether you are creating a chic backsplash in the kitchen or a luxurious shower wall, glass tiles can easily fit your needs and style. Hand-crafted glass tile from Lunada Bay Tile offers an exceptional blend of beauty, durability, and sustainability. By choosing these tiles, you are investing in a product that enhances your space while supporting artisanal craftsmanship and provides aesthetic appeal with practical advantages that enhance your home’s value and functionality.

Click here to explore the entire Glass Tile Collection from Lunada Bay Tile.

OR, to find the a glass tile showroom near you, click here.