Why are mosaic tiles expensive?

Mosaics Lab
4 min readJun 10, 2022

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We’ve talked about the intricate beauty and durability of mosaic artwork many times. It is clear why mosaic art tends to be a bit pricey and why it is worth it, but what about mosaic tiles? That turned out to be one of the most searched questions on the web when it comes to mosaics in general. So, let’s break it down and explain it as best as we can.

The beauty of glass mosaic tiles. Mosaic by Inna, Image source: Link.

First of all, it is good to keep in mind that the reason for this question to be so buzzy is probably because tiles are one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world. They are used for both protection and decoration and once you do a price vs. value comparison, you will quickly realize that most of the regular tiles are pretty affordable. So, what makes mosaic tiles even more special than regular tiles?

Close-up of the glass mosaic tiles on one of Sonia King’s remarkable artworks. Mosaic Artwork by Sonia King. Image Source: Link.
Marble mosaic tiles at their best. Mosaic Artwork by Mosaics Lab.

Mosaic tiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes and that’s what makes them harder to manufacture. Sometimes mosaic may be pricier than a natural stone backsplash, simply because it was more difficult to produce it. Most mosaic tiles use high-end glass and marble and most are hand-cut. In our catalog, all of them are hand-cut by the artists themselves. The tiles that are mass-produced are of course cheaper, with less charm and no authenticity.

A lovely example of work-in-progress contemporary mosaic art made of premium marble. Mosaic Mural by Mosaics Lab.
Iridescent glass tiles.

Even if you are new to this corner of the internet, by now you’ve probably realized that there are different types of mosaic tiles out there, and all of them come with different price tags. Ceramic mosaic tiles are always the cheapest option and they can look quite cute when installed. However, a bit steeper price that comes attached to glass or marble mosaic tiles will buy you more durability and easier maintenance. Ceramic tiles are easily chipped and most are glazed which means you will have to polish them from time to time. When it comes to glass or marble mosaic tiles all you have to do is wipe them with a mop sometimes.

Interesting placement of the ceramic tile mosaic art. Image Source: Link.
Contemporary mosaic art is made of marble mosaic tiles. Mosaic Mural Portrait by Mosaics Lab.

One of the aspects that can heavily influence the price is the size of the installation area. The larger the area covered in mosaic, the bigger the price. One of the main reasons for that is the installation itself because it is difficult to replicate the same design in a separate sheet of mosaic tiles, which considerably increases the cost. However, if you opt to simply buy a particular mosaic artwork at Mosaics Lab u can opt for a particular size, so it covers the surface in its entirety. That basically means that we will meet you halfway if you compare the price of one bigger mosaic artwork to several smaller ones.

Various types of mosaic tiles. Image Source: Link.

In the end, let’s sum up all of the advantages of using mosaic tiles. All of the materials of which mosaics are constructed have gone through immense pressure and temperature, which makes them resistant to heat, moisture, fumes, and light. Other types of tiles and materials tend to lose their radiance over time simply due to constant exposure. For example, the highly abrasive volcanic ashes couldn’t even disturb the beauty of some mosaics in Pompeii. In my book, the main advantage of mosaic tiles is their customizability. They allow you to mimic any design, develop any idea and be as detailed and make it as intricate as you like. With mosaic tiles you get that irreplaceable one-of-a-kind look, so you can be sure that your space’s aesthetic can never be duplicated.

Why are mosaic tiles expensive?
Why are mosaic tiles expensive?
Why are mosaic tiles expensive?
Why are mosaic tiles expensive?

This article was originally published on Mosaics Lab’s website.

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Mosaics Lab
Mosaics Lab

Written by Mosaics Lab

We handcraft top-quality, unique and customizable mosaics for any surface and space. IG/FB: @MosaicsLab | Mosaicslab.com

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