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Elvis Tile-Mosaic Pool Long live The King! Dean and Derek create an Elvis tile mosaic for the bottom of a swimming pool. From "Rock Solid" episode DROC-311

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Figure B

Tracing The Mosaic

When the mosaic is exactly where you want it, the next step is to trace an outline of the design with a pencil directly on the surface of the pool (figure B). The outline is the template for all of the prep work, so be meticulous.

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Figure C

Filling In Divots

After tracing the mosaic, move it to the side. The next step is to fill in the divots left by the diamond blade grinder that was used to clean the pool. Fill in the divots with thinset mortar, applying it with a trowel in a thin, smooth layer (figure C). Use a multi-purpose thinset mortar with a pre-mixed latex additive. Let it dry for 6 to 8 hours.

	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F

Waterproofing

• Now waterproof the area where the mosaic will be placed. Waterproofing is very important because it will keep any moisture from coming up under the mosaic.

• Apply one coat of waterproofing with a paint roller within the traced lines (figure D).

• Wait about two hours, then apply a second coat of waterproofing. When you apply the second coat, make sure that you roll it in the opposite direction.

• Important: Do not work with this product below 40 degrees.

• Let the waterproofing dry completely (figure E).

• If any of the waterproofing dries outside the lines, take a blade and scrape off the excess (figure F).

• Once the edges are clean, sweep away the peelings (figure G), and slide your mosaic back into place (figure H).

• Make sure that the mosaic covers all the areas of waterproofing and that it doesn't peek around the edges.
  

• Next, peel the plastic coating off the back.

• The mosaic is almost ready to be set with thinset.

Figure G

Figure H

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