The process of laying and finishing cement concrete marble mosaic flooring tiles is essential in building work for floors, walls, staircases, and more. The high-quality finish and durability of mosaic flooring make it a popular choice in both residential and commercial settings. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the necessary materials, the steps for proper installation, and the detailed finishing techniques to achieve a flawless, long-lasting mosaic tile floor.
Introduction to Cement Concrete Marble Mosaic Flooring Tiles
Mosaic flooring, particularly with cement concrete and marble tiles, offers an attractive and durable surface. Commonly applied in areas with high traffic, such as hallways, lobbies, and staircases, these floors are valued for their aesthetic appeal and resilience. However, achieving the ideal look and durability requires a thorough understanding of materials and methods. This guide discusses the essential materials, laying process, and polishing techniques necessary to create a perfectly finished mosaic tile surface.
Materials Required for Mosaic Tile Flooring
To achieve a strong, lasting floor, certain materials must be carefully selected and conform to standard specifications:
- Cement: Used for creating a strong binding base, it must meet relevant quality standards.
- Sand: Mixed with cement to form the mortar bed, ensuring the floor’s structural integrity.
- Terrazzo Tiles: These are the primary surface tiles, chosen for their aesthetic and durability. Each tile must conform to specifications outlined in the relevant code to ensure consistency in appearance and strength.
When mixed with water, these materials form a mortar that provides the base for laying tiles. The mortar should be prepared according to the specified grade to create a sturdy bedding layer.
Steps for Laying Mosaic Tile Flooring
Proper installation of mosaic tiles requires a methodical approach to achieve a uniform, well-bonded floor surface. The steps below outline the procedure for optimal results:
- Preparation of the Base:
Before laying tiles, the subgrade concrete or RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) slab on which they will be installed must be cleaned, wetted, and mopped. This ensures a dust-free surface for optimal adhesion. Proper surface preparation prevents unevenness and helps the mortar bond with the underlying slab. - Bedding Process:
A cement mortar with a typical ratio of 1:5 is prepared and applied to form the bed for the tiles. The mortar thickness should average 30mm but never drop below 10mm at any point. Once the mortar is laid, it is leveled, tamped, and allowed to harden for a full day to create a firm foundation for the tiles. Over this base, a grey cement slurry with a honey-like consistency is applied at a rate of 4.4 kg per square meter. The slurry acts as an adhesive layer between the bed and the tiles. - Tile Placement:
Before laying, each tile is soaked in water for approximately 20 minutes, then left to dry for 10 minutes, ensuring they are damp but not wet. Damp tiles adhere more effectively without becoming overly saturated. Tiles are placed on the mortar bed and gently tapped with a wooden mallet to ensure they are properly aligned and level with adjacent tiles. Joint thickness between tiles should not exceed 1.5 mm. When full-size tiles cannot be used, they are cut to size, and edges are smoothed to maintain straight, true joints. Tiles bordering walls should extend 12mm under the wall plaster, skirting, or dado to ensure stability. Any excess cement that seeps through the joints is cleaned off immediately to maintain a smooth surface.
Curing, Polishing, and Finishing of Mosaic Tiles
Once the tiles are laid, a precise finishing process enhances their appearance and durability.
- Curing:
On the day after the tiles are laid, all joints are brushed clean with a wire brush to remove any excess cement. Then, the joints are filled with a matching cement paste to secure the tiles and create a seamless surface. A thin coat of cement slurry is applied over the entire surface to protect it from damage and fill in any small pinholes that may exist. The surface is then kept wet and covered to prevent drying and cracking. This curing process should continue for a minimum of seven days, ensuring the mortar fully sets and binds. To avoid any disturbance during this period, walking on the floor should be restricted, especially within the first 24 hours. - Polishing Process:
After curing, the polishing process begins, using a machine with a coarse-grade grit block to grind the surface. This initial grinding removes irregularities and levels the surface. Water is used liberally to keep the area cool and prevent scratches. A colored cement slurry, matching the tile surface, is applied next to fill any gaps and enhance color consistency. After this, a second round of grinding is performed with a fine-grade grit block to smooth the surface further. The final polish uses the finest-grade grit block, applied 24 hours after the second grind, or right before handing over the completed floor. - Finishing Touches:
To complete the polishing, the entire surface is cleaned with a weak solution of soft soap in warm water, which removes any lingering debris and highlights the shine. This final washing gives the floor a smooth, glossy finish and prepares it for daily use.
Conclusion
Achieving a high-quality finish with mosaic tile flooring requires strict adherence to correct installation techniques, curing procedures, and finishing touches. Each step, from preparing the base to applying the final polish, is crucial in ensuring a durable, attractive surface that withstands wear over time. By following this guide, builders and renovators can create beautiful, long-lasting mosaic tile floors that elevate the visual appeal and functionality of any space.