What is a good weather proof mosaic base?
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I picked these tables up at the end of last summer and plan to make a mosaic top over this winter. I need advice on a good foundation for the mosaic to go onto. What would be weather proof as these are outdoor garden tables. Also any other ideas on what you would do with them would be welcome. Thanks!
11 answers
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cement board as a base with tile on top will handle just about anything
![Karen Mortimore]()
Karen Mortimore
on Jan 22, 2014
- See 5 previous
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cement board or wonderboard. They come in 2 thicknesses at home centers in the tile area. Choose the thicker one (1/2") if you want to add tile border as a edging, otherwise choose the thinner one (1/4"). Can be attached with adhesive or even screwed to the base if there is a broad enough top edge
![Susie]()
Susie
on Jan 22, 2014
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Unless you buy cement board rated for outside use, it will eventually crumble. Some options would be treated plywood which could be a base for many creative ideas. there is also plexiglass that can be cut to size at most home stores.
![The Garden Frog with C Renee]()
The Garden Frog with C Renee
on Jan 22, 2014
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I agree with C Renee Fuller -- unless material you use is treated for outside it will eventually disintegrate . Also glass tops would work.
![Cynthia E]()
Cynthia E
on Jan 22, 2014
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Use clear glass if you use glass for your mosaic and the light will shine thru. Use a glue that will dry clear and grout that blends with your colors. Seal well if using outside.
![Ginnie]()
Ginnie
on Jan 22, 2014
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Regular mastic used for tile will work as well as gluing down with an adhesive. You will then grout the tile normally. I would first prepare the plexiglass by scouring it with something like a Brillo pad to lightly etch the surface. Wipe it well with a wet clean cloth and apply the adhesive or mastic when thoroughly dry.
![Pat Dollar]()
Pat Dollar
on Jan 22, 2014
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you can use glass for a 3d effect. etched glass under the glass mosaic tiles will surely give it some luminescence or frosted glass. a can of frosting is about 6 to 9 dollars.
![Russell Cook]()
Russell Cook
on Jan 22, 2014
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I've done some of these with tiles. I bought a large tile at the big box place and cut it to size with my tile saw. If you don't have a saw, they will cut it for you. Then you can mosaic onto the tile, grout and seal. This tabletop or chair bottom or whatever will last probably longer than the frame. :). Mine are about 4 years old now. Have fun.
![Linda Richard]()
Linda Richard
on Jan 23, 2014
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I did a similar project a few years ago, I used treated plywood for the base and put small travertine tumbled tiles on it, grouted and then put a varnish on top, The varnish was just to give it a yellowed aged look.
![Your Organized Friend]()
Your Organized Friend
on Jan 23, 2014
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Cement board does not work if you want to use outdoors. . It will crumble. A treated plywood base is good.You want a sturdy base but not too heavy . Glass is a heavier solution. You can buy at the glass store cut to your size. It is thinner too.
![Kathy]()
Kathy
on Jan 24, 2014
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I would use plywood. Make sure it is treated..by the time you put your mastic on it for the tiles and the grout after, it should last a couple life times.
![Terra Gazelle]()
Terra Gazelle
on Jan 24, 2014
Karen Mortimore
on Jan 22, 2014
Susie
on Jan 22, 2014
The Garden Frog with C Renee
on Jan 22, 2014
Cynthia E
on Jan 22, 2014
Ginnie
on Jan 22, 2014
Pat Dollar
on Jan 22, 2014
Russell Cook
on Jan 22, 2014
Linda Richard
on Jan 23, 2014
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