Mosaic Tiles on vertical surfaces?

Blu_Hwy_Lady · 10-28-2006, 12:33 PM

Using the search function, I discovered a couple of thread where people discussed using mosaic tile on the bathroom floor. What I'm wondering is how it would hold up on vertical surfaces like the thin fake wood strips between the tambour doors and even on the fake walnut surfaces. Seems like it would be a great way to cover it up rather than ripping it out. I don't know that I would necessarily grout them, perhaps just placing them close together would give a good effect.

BTW, in searching past threads I found a post of a description of an art project type trailer by Cat from 7-02. It sounded fantastic, sort of the kinds of things I'd like to do. However, there were no pictures. Cat, if you're reading this, can you post pics of your Excella or links to where the pictures live. It sounds fascinating.

10-28-2006, 01:35 PM

There may be a way to use moasic tiles on a vertical surface but I doubt in the long run that it would hold up in an Airstream because of the flexing, vibration and bumping while traveling. I find it hard to believe that it would hold up on floors in an Airstream without cracked and disintegrating grout lines. It is used in large motor homes but i would think the chassis is stiffer and somewhat isolated from the road by better suspension and the height. I do know that there is a flex agent that can be added to the grout but I wonder if it would be enough. Another problem is; tile is very heavy. Something to think about. I just finished tiling two kitchens and a bathroom both walls( back splash) and floors but they're not moving.

LI Pets · 10-28-2006, 02:12 PM

It would be nice if you never take it on the road, too much flexing.

How about painting see

**CanoeStream** · 10-28-2006, 02:31 PM

Ditto on the tile is way-too-heavy!

Cat was member #118! She last posted here earlier this month. If you are seeking her input I'd suggest a PM with this thread's URL to ask her to look in. I remembered pictures of Cat's entry door only. I see that it's in her photo gallery: http://www.airforums.com/photo...500&userid=118

Blu_Hwy_Lady · 10-29-2006, 10:54 AM

Canoe: Thanks of the links. Love Cat's door. As far as the tiles, I'm thinking those tiny little mosaic tiles and using them as an accent around the tambours not tiling the whole coach. I faux painted the inside. (See pics) I think painting the fake wood would be too much.

**Mel** · 10-30-2006, 10:35 AM

We used small glass tiles (sparingly) on a vertical surface in our Safari and it's been fine. We have gone over some pretty nasty washboard roads that have opened cupboards, yet the tiles are still intact. If you go this route, I would suggest using a silicone adhesive to attach the tiles to the wall and fill in between - don't use grout. Have a look here, they're the yellow and turquoise tiles that make up our kitchen counter backsplash.

Blu_Hwy_Lady · 10-30-2006, 02:04 PM

Wow, great restoration job Mel. It looks wonderful. Your use of tile is sort of what I had in mind as a border treatment. Thanks for the advice about the silicone adhesive.

silverleeper · 10-30-2006, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blu_Hwy_Lady

Wow, great restoration job Mel. It looks wonderful. Your use of tile is sort of what I had in mind as a border treatment. Thanks for the advice about the silicone adhesive.

Hi, Use the silicone adhesive like you would use regular tile adhesive with a notch trowel. The tiles will want to slip a little so find a way to hold them. The tile I put in was just above the counter so I used a narrow piece of wood. After the tile sets then use a high quality silicone to fill the gaps. It comes in many colors.

Blu_Hwy_Lady · 10-30-2006, 05:08 PM

Got Pictures Silverleeper? Also, what is the brand of silicone adhesive?

silverleeper · 10-30-2006, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blu_Hwy_Lady

Got Pictures Silverleeper? Also, what is the brand of silicone adhesive?

Hi, It was 3M. Read the tubes carefully to make sure you get what your looking for. Stay away from latex (water based).

silverleeper · 10-30-2006, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by silverleeper

Hi, It was 3M. Read the tubes carefully to make sure you get what your looking for. Stay away from latex (water based).

Correction, The caulk I used on this application was GE.