Installation & Care

## Glass Mosaic Wall Mural Installation and Care Instructions

**Congratulations on your beautiful new glass mosaic wall mural!** This guide will walk you through the installation process and provide tips for long-lasting care.

**Before You Begin:**

* **Gather your tools:**
* Safety glasses
* Work gloves
* Level
* Pencil
* Tape measure
* Utility knife
* Notched trowel (size based on tile size)
* Soft rubber grout float
* Tile sponges
* Bucket
* Grout (ensure it’s appropriate for glass mosaics)
* Grout sealer (optional)
* Soft cloths

**Installation:**

1. **Surface Preparation:**
* Ensure the wall surface is clean, dry, smooth, and free of dust, grease, or loose paint.
* Patch any holes or cracks with appropriate repair materials.
* Prime the wall surface with a high-quality primer suitable for mosaics if necessary (check with the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific mosaic).
* Allow the primer to dry completely.

2. **Layout Planning (Optional):**
* For complex designs, it’s helpful to create a dry layout on the floor to visualize the final placement of the mosaic pieces.
* Number the back of each mosaic tile if following a specific pattern.

3. **Adhesive Application:**
* Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
* Using the notched trowel, spread a thin layer of adhesive onto the wall surface in a manageable section. The trowel size should create ridges appropriate for the mosaic tile size.
* Spread the adhesive evenly, avoiding thick globs.

4. **Mosaic Placement:**
* Begin at a bottom corner and work your way up.
* Carefully press each mosaic tile firmly into the adhesive, ensuring full contact.
* Use a level to ensure straight lines and even placement.
* Maintain a consistent grout joint width throughout (use spacers if needed).
* Wipe away any excess adhesive from the mosaic surface with a damp cloth immediately.

5. **Cutting Mosaic Pieces (if necessary):**
* Use a tile nipper or a wet saw (depending on the thickness of the glass) to cut mosaic pieces for fitting around edges or creating specific shapes.

6. **Grouting:**
* Once the adhesive has completely cured (refer to the manufacturer’s instructions), prepare your grout according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
* Using the rubber grout float, diagonally press the grout into the spaces between the mosaic tiles, ensuring complete filling.
* Remove excess grout from the mosaic surface with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently. Work in small sections to prevent the grout from drying prematurely.
* Buff the mosaic surface with a clean, soft cloth to remove any grout haze once the grout has started to set (consult the grout manufacturer’s instructions for specific timing).

7. **Sealing (Optional):**
* After the grout has fully cured (refer to the grout manufacturer’s recommendations), you can apply a grout sealer for added protection against stains and moisture (especially in areas like bathrooms or kitchens).
* Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application of the grout sealer.

**Care and Maintenance:**

* Clean your glass mosaic mural regularly with a soft, damp cloth and a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution.
* Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or scouring pads, as they can scratch the glass surface.
* For stubborn stains, consult a professional cleaning service specializing in glass mosaics.
* Protect your mural from direct sunlight exposure for extended periods, as this can cause fading or discoloration over time.

**Enjoy your beautiful and unique glass mosaic wall mural!** With proper installation and care, it will add beauty and value to your space for years to come.

**Additional Notes:**

* If you are not comfortable installing the mosaic mural yourself, it’s recommended to hire a professional installer experienced with glass mosaics.
* Always follow the specific recommendations of the mosaic tile and adhesive manufacturers for best results.
* Keep copies of the manufacturer’s instructions for future reference.

We hope these instructions help! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.