Ceramic mosaics with amazing design
In Dune we offer a wide variety of mosaics for walls and floors. Countless colors, styles, sizes, finishes and materials to add a trendy touch to any space.
For a correct choice of bonding material, different factors should be taken into account such as: material of the substrate to be covered (plasterboard, synthetic panels, plaster, wood, etc.), stability of the substrate, surface to be covered, environmental conditions, speed at which it is to be laid, etc. All these parameters will condition the choice of adhesive.
The recommended bonding materials are adhesives that have been tested in our facilities, in controlled environmental conditions and on rigid brick and/or concrete substrates. In installations other than those indicated above, an initial test is recommended and in case of doubt, you can check with us or contact the adhesive supplier directly.
When laying mosaic tiles, we recommend carrying out a test with at least 2 pieces before proceeding with the installation of the entire material. You should also check that the adhesive chosen is suitable for the material to be installed.
For glass mosaic we recommend the use of white epoxy adhesives (to minimize the shade change of the glass (see adhesives table). It is very important not to apply adhesive layers higher than 3 mm, since the retraction of the adhesive can generate defects on the back of some finishes (see attached pictures).
However, for stone mosaic, we recommend using C1 cementitious adhesive or C2 cementitious adhesive as a bonding material. It is essential not to use epoxy bonding material for this type of mosaic.
For ceramic mosaics containing pieces with porous body (white and red clay) we recommend using C1 cementitious adhesive (see adhesive table), while for pieces with non-porous body (stoneware and porcelain stoneware) we recommend using C2 cementitious adhesive (see adhesive table).
It should also be noted that C2 cementitious adhesive must be used for glass and stone mosaics. For glass and metal mosaics we recommend C2 cementitious adhesive or epoxy adhesive. For metal and stone mosaics it is best to choose C2 cementitious adhesive, as well as for mosaics with resin components.
For mosaics with ceramic and metal backing (SIRENA COPPER, SIRENA GOLD, REFLECTIONS, METALIC SILVER, METALIC GOLD, BRONZO, ETERNAL, HYPNOTIC, MATRIX, URBAN) we suggest using C1 cementitious adhesive, C2 cementitious adhesive or epoxy adhesive. For mosaics made only in metal (CORTEN, HALLEY SILVER and HALLEY GOLD), it is necessary to use C2 cementitious adhesive or epoxy adhesive for a correct installation.
Finally, for wood mosaics you must also take into account the different factors of the place where it is to be laid, and carry out a test before laying all the pieces. In particular, for the TROPICANA NATURA model you should use epoxy adhesives with flexible properties and suitable for wood. In addition, we recommend not to use too much adhesive material and to follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions.
In any case, it is essential to check that the adhesive chosen is suitable for the material to be installed and to carry out the relevant tests before laying all the pieces. Each mosaic has a downloadable technical data sheet on our website, it is very important to check it.
The surface where the mosaic tile is to be laid must be firm, perfectly clean and level. If there is unevenness of more than 2 mm, use suitable products to level the surface to be covered. Never level using the adhesive. Any cracks and imperfections must be repaired so that the wall is perfectly smooth. The moisture content of the wall must be less than 2%.
Before starting with the installation, it is advisable to treat the meshes with stone components with sealant.
In addition, models made with resin components (NEREIDA, HERMES, NAYADE, and KARAT) should not be installed in areas close to heat sources such as behind radiators, saunas, fireplaces, etc.
Finally, JOY and SMILE mosaics require special attention and careful handling to avoid breakage of the stone components.
To grout the pieces that make up a mosaic tile, the joints must be clean and dry, with a minimum depth of 2 mm. With the help of a flat trowel the grouting paste can be spread over all the joints. Do not let the excess material dry, clean it as soon as possible. To do this, use a sponge dampened with water and neutral pH cleaning products. Never use abrasive products for cleaning. In case the material dries, use cement descalers.
It is worth mentioning that the color of the material used will influence the final appearance of the product. For this reason, and in order to ensure that the result is the desired one, it is advisable to carry out a test before grouting the entire surface.
In addition, to achieve a better waterproofing, we recommend the use of epoxy joints, especially in water areas.
Within the mosaics of our brand, the models with metallic components (PLANETARIUM, STATUS, THOR, KRAKATOA, LENS, GLOBE, MAGMA GREY, MAGMA COPPER, ARCADIA, CASABLANCA, NIAGARA, AQUARIUS, PLEYADES, CASSIOPEIA, ESMERALDA) and the models with resin components (NAYADE, HERMES and NEREIDA) have a low resistance to scratching. To achieve a correct finish, when grouting, use a fine-grained material and clean the excess grout paste with a sponge and plenty of clean water, avoiding excessive pressure.
Please note that, at the installation stage is the moment when most of the scratches are generated and special care must be taken. However, we recommend carrying out a grout test on a piece before proceeding with the process.
After installation, it is advisable to use a damp sponge to clean the excess material after installation. It is important not to let it dry, but if the material dries out, use a cement or epoxy grout remover (not suitable for stone).
All metal mosaics can be cut using a radial saw with a metal disc. We recommend a continuous rim radial.
Yes, it is possible to insert a mosaic next to a wall tile covering as long as the surface is leveled for the different thicknesses using the appropriate products and means.
Yes, a mosaic can be laid on the floor, but only if it is recommended for that use. You can check the technical data sheet of the product you are interested in to verify its specifications and uses.
To clean a ceramic mosaic tile on a daily basis, standard cleaning products with neutral pH can be used, without using abrasive cleaning materials. No additional maintenance is required.
However, PVD and delicate mosaics should be cared for and aggressive products and abrasive cleaning tools should not be used.
In cases where a glass mosaic tile is used as a shower tray, it is advisable to apply an anti-slip system. We are distributors of the Antigliss product and, after having carried out the relevant tests, we recommend its use to prevent slipping in the mosaic tiles used to cover the shower area.
