MOSAICS JILLIAN SZACHURY
Figure 1: Mosaic tiles are oftentimes utilized in the kitchen space as a way to bring a contrast of shape and form into a space.
Mosaic Tiles have been used as a creative way to piece together an elaborate work of art or pattern. The term mosaic essentially means a design that is comprised of many smaller pieces of tile -- this pattern is usually made up of tiles that are measured to be smaller than 2x2". Individual mosaic patterns vary greatly, featuring a variety of different materials, colors, and tile shapes. Since mosaic tile can come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, this makes this material one of the more accessible surfaces on the market for drawing more attention to a wall or countertop. This material is often seen as either glazed or unglazed. Unglazed tile has an earthy, natural look. Glazing on the other hand, gives a tile better resistance to water and stains and makes the surface look brighter and more vibrant, but glazing can also make tile slippery.
The maintenance requirements for mosaic tile are not necessarily heavy in labor, but there are specific steps one must take in order to maintain the beauty that this material gives off. Firstly, the period after you install your mosaic tiles is the most important time for cleaning. There may be excess grout, dust and debris that can scratch or deface your mosaic tiles after the installation process.
You may use grout stripper on this surface with a sponge to remove grout. After the stripper sits for a few minutes. Generally, you’ll need a grout stripper, a solution you’ll apply to the surface of your tiles using a sponge. After the stripper sits for a few minutes, use a wet sponge to wipe it away. When it comes to removing dirt and debris after installation, sweep away the chunks, then use water and a mild detergent to scrub the tiles. For a routine cleaning of this material, whether you’re wiping down counters, backsplashes, showers, bath surrounds or floors, use a mild detergent and water. Use a soft sponge or cloth, and avoid hard-bristled tools, as these can scratch your mosaic tiles. Then rinse off the surface of your mosaic tiles and dry them with a cloth.
One very important element of ceramic tiles is that it is an incredibly sustainable material. The sustainable characteristics of ceramic tile support LEED design. The use of recycled and natural, sustainable materials, such as ceramic tile, in building construction has addressed some of the most current environmental concerns in our world today. Ceramic tile is not only sustainable, but it is also made from natural materials, doesn’t require the use of caustic cleaners, and can save consumers money. Composed of natural clay and other raw ingredients, ceramic tile does not require the destruction of other natural resources. The clay can be formed into a wide variety of shapes to accommodate for a wide variety of uses, which is why we see this material being utilized in both indoor and outdoor spaces.
There are a lot of other environmental advantages for using this material in a space:
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No chemical cleaners are needed to clean ceramic tile. Only mild cleaners or even just warm water can clean tile sufficiently while avoiding adding dangerous chemicals to the water system.
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Long life cycle cost compared to other materials
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Ceramic tile is a money-saving material since it doesn't need to be replaced as often compared to other materials.
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ASTM's ceramic standards specify, test, and evaluate the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of various materials and products made of ceramic and/or clay. Some specific tests that ATSM completes are listed below:
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C482 - 20 Standard Test Method for Bond Strength of Ceramic Tile to Portland Cement Paste
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C484 - 20 Standard Test Method for Thermal Shock Resistance of Glazed Ceramic Tile
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C485 - 16 Standard Test Method for Measuring Warpage of Ceramic Tile
Some other organizations that test this material are listed below:
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American Ceramic Society
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American Craft Council
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Ceramic Arts Network
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Orton Ceramics
Ceramic mosaic tiles are a must-have material for any modern home, where it provides the interior of any house with its own unique personality. With a choice of colors and finishes, ceramic mosaic tiles can help achieve any look, whether it’s a retro feel or a more updated, modern one. Because they’re extremely water-resistant, ceramic mosaic tiles have been used in renovated bathrooms, which adds more radiance to the space. These tiles are also ideal for kitchen backsplashes, which is another way to bring color and beauty to a space as well. Because this material can create a variety of different shapes, and come in many different colors, ceramic mosaic tiles can add a great aesthetic to any room it is utilized in. Take figure 2 for example, or the figure on the right, where these tiles are cut into two different shapes, and present two different colors and aesthetics to fit any clients' needs. Figure 1 is more of an invigorating and fun look, where the colors of the rainbow are being presented all throughout the mosaic pattern the material has created. Figure 2 is more of a modern, chic look, where black and white are utilized to create a unique hexagonal pattern.
Figure 4: Black and white are often seen as simple colors to balance out a space, but here it is utilized as the statement colors to bring in extravagant patterns through its mosaic pattern and design.
The material on the left is an example of a mosaic tile that presents this material's beauty and elegance. This example can be used in any style of home, where it can be presented in a retro styled space, and be accented with bright neon colors, or a modern styled space too, being the accent of an all white, sleek and clean environment. The shape of this mosaic is what makes this pattern so interesting, and unique. Another interesting element of this material is that it can have many different purposes, where it could be used as a backsplash in a kitchen, a flooring in a bathroom or a mud room, or even an accent wall in a living room or shower. This material is incredibly versatile, which makes mosaic tiles so much more pleasing and intriguing to utilize in a space.