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Mother of Pearl: A journey into a shimmering world

19 April 2023
A square blue grey mother of pearl mosaic in a regular layout for wall application internally. Suitable for use in bathrooms, kitchens and spa areas.

Mother of pearl mosaics are an exquisite form of art that can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any space. These mosaics are crafted from the inner lining of mollusc shells, which are then cut into small pieces and arranged to create stunning patterns and designs. While mother of pearl mosaics are aesthetically pleasing and durable, their installation is not as simple as it may seem. A crucial component of installing mother of pearl mosaics is preparing the sub walls correctly, and this cannot be emphasized enough.


Sub walls are the foundation of any tiling job, and preparing them correctly is vital to ensure the longevity and durability of the installation. Essentially, sub walls refer to the surface on which the tiles will be fixed, and it is essential to ensure that this surface is structurally sound and level before applying any mother of pearl mosaic sheets.


To prepare the sub walls for mother of pearl mosaic installation, the first step is to assess the surface conditions. Make sure that the surface is dry, free of any dampness, and clean of any dirt, grime, or debris. Any dampness or water infiltration can cause the adhesive to loosen or rot the surface, which can be disastrous for the integrity of the installation.

Once the surface is deemed structurally sound and clean, the next step is to ensure that it is level. Uneven surfaces can lead to gaps between the tiles, which can adversely affect the aesthetics of the installation. If the substrate is uneven, it will need to be leveled using appropriate leveling compounds or filling compounds. These compounds can ensure that the surface is flat, even, and ready for the mother of pearl mosaic installation.


Another crucial aspect to consider when preparing sub walls for mother of pearl mosaic installation is the type of adhesive used. It is imperative to use the correct adhesive as it will ensure that the mother of pearl sheets adhere correctly and do not loosen or dislodge over time. A high-quality adhesive should be selected based on the type of surface, the size and weight of the mosaic sheets, and the environmental conditions.


In conclusion, preparing sub walls correctly before installing mother of pearl mosaics is crucial to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation. It is essential to ensure that the sub walls are structurally sound, dry, clean, and level before applying the adhesive and mosaic sheets. Taking the time to ensure all of these steps are followed will guarantee that the end result is beautiful, timeless, and durable.