FAQ's

ARE ALL OF YOUR PRODUCTS FOR POOL AND SPA ONLY?

No, while the vast majority do use our products for pool and spa application, you can use them in other areas, especially when it comes to custom pieces. Some examples of other uses would be building murals, entry foyers, custom outdoor areas, kitchen backsplash, pool baths, etc. 

No matter where the placement…your mosaic will surely be the topic of conversation.

WHO SHOULD INSTALL THE PRODUCTS YOU SELL?

We recommend you use a certified pool professional or tile setter to install our glass tile, mosaics, or water features.  Chances are you’ve probably already hired a pool builder to create, or renovate your backyard oasis.

WHAT IF I WANT TO INSTALL THEM MYSELF?

A competent individual should be able to install the mosaic him or herself. If you’re ambitious we say “Go for it!” but please do your homework before proceeding.  ABM cannot be held accountable for user application error. 

Please refer to the industry standard for tile installation, the TCNA Handbook for Ceramic, Glass and Stone Tile Installation published by the Tile Council of North America. 

HOW DO THE MOSAICS COME PACKAGED?

Our mosaics are typically mesh backed for ease of handling and installation, then vacuum sealed to cardboard to ensure they travel well and arrive safe and sound.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PORCELAIN AND CERAMIC?

Without getting too technical, porcelain is frost proof and ceramic is not.

Both products are derived from clay, however porcelain tile is made from more refined clay, fired at a higher temperature creating a denser and more resilient tile.

WHAT IF MY POOL FREEZES?

If your pool freezes we recommend you purchase mosaics that are frost proof (porcelain). Don’t worry…we notate this in the online store!

Mosaics products are generally only at risk when installed in areas that will experience freeze and thaw cycles.  It is acceptable to use non frost proof mosaics if installed below the frost line in your pool.  Keeping a non-frost proof mosaic submerged underwater will insulate it from harmful freezing temperatures ensuring a lifetime of use.

DO THE SHADOWS REALLY GIVE IT A DIFFERENT LOOK?

Yes, they actually do. The mosaic becomes almost 3-D in appearance. It looks like it is elevated off the pool bottom giving it a more realistic effect.

WHAT TYPE OF THINSET DO YOU RECOMMEND?

We recommend using a latex based modified thin set. These can be found at any large do-it-yourself store.