Ondara is a handcrafted-style glass mosaic tile collection made from high-quality coloured glass and designed specifically for pools, spas, and other water-exposed environments. Its glass composition creates exceptional colour depth, luminosity, and light reflection, allowing surfaces to shift beautifully throughout the day as they interact with water and natural light. Engineered for submerged and wet-area applications, Ondara combines visual impact with durability, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.

Yes. Ondara tiles are suitable for full pool interiors, waterlines, steps, ledges, and feature areas, provided they are installed using a pool-rated system and in accordance with industry best practices.

Yes. Glass mosaic tiles are highly resistant to chemicals, making Ondara suitable for both saltwater and chlorinated pools when installed with compatible adhesives, grouts, and waterproofing systems designed for pool environments.

Yes. Glass mosaics offer excellent UV stability and colour fastness, meaning colours will not fade or degrade when exposed to sunlight over time. This makes Ondara well suited to both indoor and outdoor pools.

Ondara mosaics are supplied with paper-faced mounting, allowing for easier handling, alignment, and installation while maintaining flexibility around curves, steps, and pool contours.

Paper-faced mounting is very common for glass mosaics because it maximises the area of direct bond between the tile and the thinset adhesive. With nothing between the tile and the substrate (no mesh or glue dots), installers can achieve closer to the recommended 95 % contact of tile surface to mortar — which improves long-term adhesion, especially in wet or submerged applications. 

Mesh backing, or glue dot mounting, can limit the mortar contacting the back of the tile — and too much glue in mesh systems can actually act as a bond breaker, preventing the mortar from touching the glass and weakening the bond. 

No. Glass tiles are non-porous and do not require sealing. However, grout lines may benefit from sealing depending on the grout type used and the installer’s recommendation.

Ondara tiles must be installed using a pool-approved adhesive and waterproofing system suitable for glass mosaics. Adhesives should be flexible, chemical-resistant, and compatible with submerged environments. Consider using a polymer-modified thinset mortar specifically approved for glass tile. Standard thinset mortars are generally not suitable. We strongly recommend installation by an experienced pool tiler who understands glass mosaic requirements, including correct adhesive coverage and curing times.

Due to the translucent nature of glass mosaics, the colour and consistency of the adhesive bed can affect the finished appearance of the installation, especially in lighter colourways. A white or neutral-curing adhesive formulated for glass mosaics is recommended and should be applied evenly to achieve a consistent visual result.

• Allow mortar to firm up (typically 20–40 minutes, depending on conditions)
• Wet paper thoroughly with clean water
• Gently peel paper from the surface
• Do not remove paper too early or too late
• Remove all paper adhesive residue from tile surfaces and joints
• Use clean water, sponge, and soft nylon brush if required
• Joints must be fully open and free of residue before grouting
  

A high-quality epoxy grout is strongly recommended for pool applications, as it offers superior resistance to water, chemicals, and staining compared to standard cementitious grouts. Grout colour selection is a design choice, but lighter or tonal grout colours are often used to enhance the clarity and depth of the glass tiles.

Slip resistance in submerged environments differs from dry flooring standards. Ondara tiles are designed for underwater use, where traction is influenced by water presence and pool design rather than standard slip ratings. For steps, ledges, or shallow areas, pool designers and installers should assess suitability based on local regulations and project requirements.

Yes. Ondara glass mosaics can be cut using a wet saw fitted with a blade suitable for glass tiles. Cutting should be carried out carefully to avoid chipping, and by an installer experienced with glass mosaics. The paper-faced mounting can be cut with scissors.

Maintenance is straightforward:

• Clean regularly using non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaners suitable for pool environments.
• Avoid harsh abrasives that could scratch the glass surface.
• Maintain pool water chemistry correctly to prevent scale or residue build-up.

With proper pool maintenance, Ondara tiles will retain their clarity and colour over time.

Yes—Tiles of Ezra offers sample tiles for most Ondara colours and finishes so you can see how the colour, tone and texture look in your own space before committing to full-size orders. You can request samples directly here.