Mosaic tiles represent one of the oldest and most versatile forms of decorative art. Far more than just small squares, mosaics allow for unmatched creativity, texture, and colour depth in any room.

If you are new to the world of mosaics, this A-Z guide covers the fundamental questions every buyer asks, helping you understand the materials, decide on the best application, and tackle the installation with confidence.

A. Materials: The Building Blocks of Your Design

The material defines the look, feel, durability, and cost of your mosaic. Choosing the right one depends heavily on the application (e.g., a pool vs. a kitchen splashback).

Material	Key Benefit	Ideal Application
Glass	Luminous, vibrant colour, 100% water impervious.	Pools, Shower Walls, Feature Walls.
Porcelain	Extremely durable, dense, low water absorption.	High-Traffic Floors, Outdoor areas, Shower Floors.
Stainless Steel	Modern look, high durability, excellent hygiene.	Commercial Spaces, Kitchen Splashbacks.
Copper	Luxurious, warm aesthetic, develops a unique patina.	Feature Walls, Low-Moisture Kitchen Splashbacks.
Shell/Mother of Pearl	Iridescent, delicate, unique, and natural shine.	Feature Walls, Bathroom Walls (low-impact).

B. Applications: Where to Use Mosaics

Mosaics are suitable for almost any space, but different materials are better for different environments:

• Kitchen Splashbacks: This is the most popular area. Stainless Steel and Copper provide unique modern looks, while Glass is ideal for high-impact colour.

• Wet Areas (Shower/Bathrooms): Glass and Porcelain are perfect, but remember to choose Porcelain for high-traffic shower floors due to its superior durability and grip.

• Pools: Only Glass is truly impervious to water and chemicals, making it the industry standard for pool interiors.

• Commercial Spaces: Stainless Steel tiles are highly recommended for their durability and ease of cleaning in cafes, bars, and retail settings. (See our guide: Why Stainless Steel is Perfect for Commercial Spaces)

C. Installation & Care Basics

The installation process is similar for most mosaics, but there are two critical considerations: Grout and Tools.

1. Grout: Sanded vs. Non-Sanded

The number one mistake DIYers make is choosing the wrong grout, which can scratch delicate surfaces.

• Non-Sanded Grout: MUST be used for all Metal, Shell, and Glass mosaics to prevent surface scratching. This is the safest choice for most ExoTiles products.

• Epoxy Grout: Highly recommended for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial areas. It is stain-resistant, waterproof, and extremely resistant to mould and harsh chemicals. (Need advice? Read our post on Grout Advice.)

2. Tools & Techniques

• Cutting: Use a wet saw for Glass/Porcelain and Tin Snips for cutting Stainless Steel and Copper pieces.

• Setting: Always use a Notch Trowel to ensure even adhesive coverage, preventing air pockets that can weaken the tile or show through transparent glass.

• Installation: To learn how to start and finish your project, review our comprehensive [Step-by-Step DIY Splashback Installation Guide].

D. Maintenance and Longevity

All mosaics are low maintenance, but specialised materials require specific care:

• Porcelain & Glass: Clean with a non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh scrubbing pads.

• Copper & Stainless Steel: Use only soft cloths and warm, soapy water. Never use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh acids like vinegar, which will damage the finish. (See our guide: Copper Mosaic Tiles Care.)