Glass mosaic adhesive is a specially formulated glue or bonding material used to fix glass mosaic tiles onto surfaces such as walls, floors, and swimming pools. Here's a detailed overview:
1. Types of Glass Mosaic Adhesives
a. Cement-Based Adhesive (Modified Thin-Set Mortar)
Contains polymers for better adhesion and flexibility.
Suitable for walls, floors, wet areas (e.g. bathrooms).
Comes in powder form, mixed with water or liquid additive.
b. Epoxy-Based Adhesive
Two-part adhesive (resin + hardener).
Waterproof, stain-resistant, and very strong.
Ideal for submerged applications like swimming pools or high-moisture areas.
Can also act as grout.
c. Ready-to-Use Acrylic Adhesive
Pre-mixed and easy to apply.
Best for interior walls and dry areas.
Not suitable for submerged or exterior applications.
2. Key Properties of a Good Glass Mosaic Adhesive
High Bond Strength: Glass is non-porous and smooth; adhesive must grip tightly.
Flexible: Allows for thermal expansion and minor substrate movement.
Non-Staining: Doesn’t show through transparent or translucent tiles.
Water-Resistant: Especially important in showers, pools, or exteriors.
Quick-Setting (optional): For fast-track installations.
3. Surface Preparation
Surface should be clean, dry, level, and free from dust or oil.
Priming may be needed for very porous or dusty substrates.
4. Application Tips
Use a notched trowel (3–4 mm) to spread adhesive evenly.
Press tiles firmly into adhesive, ensuring full contact.
Avoid voids behind tiles (especially glass) to prevent cracking.
Allow appropriate curing time before grouting (usually 24 hours).
5. Popular Brands (examples)
Laticrete (e.g., Glass Tile Adhesive)
Mapei (e.g., Adesilex P10 mixed with Isolastic for glass mosaics)
Kerakoll, Ardex, Bostik, and Sika
6. Where to Use
Application Area Recommended Adhesive
Bathroom walls Cement-based or acrylic
Kitchen backsplashes Acrylic (non-submerged)
Swimming pools Epoxy or polymer-modified cement adhesive
Exterior walls Polymer-modified thin-set mortar
Floors (indoor) Cement-based
7. Coverage
Depends on:
Trowel size
Substrate type
Tile size
Rough estimate: 1.5–2.5 kg/m²