How to Lay Kitchen Counter Tile

A new tile countertop is a remodeling project that can make a dramatic change in your kitchen. As long as your old countertops are in decent shape, you can place new tiles right over the old ones. Design options are endless and costs vary widely, depending on quality and tile selection.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tiles
• Grout
• Notched trowel
• Spacers
• Caulk

1. Measure countertops to find out the amount of tile to purchase. Buy more than necessary to have enough matching tile to complete the project.

2. Define the area for specialty tile placement on the kitchen countertop. Plan the areas out, measure and get the correct cutting tools to trim the tile.

3. Before beginning the grouting process, make sure you have an ample supply of tiles. Lay decorative tiles out on the countertop in the design pattern to ensure proper fit.

4. Set the edge pieces around the entire countertop first. Do this by buttering the back of the tile with the grout. Lay them in their designated place on the countertop.

5. Use spacers to get the exact same edges along all sides. Place plastic spacers in place at corners. Remove them after placing the tiles.

6. Spread the grout. Work in sections using a notched trowel. After spreading the grout in one area, lay your tiles where you want them. Again, use spacers to keep the lines straight and tiles lined up.

7. Place backsplash tiles last by applying grout to the tile and pressing it in place. Caulk along the seam between the backsplash and countertop.

8. Leave tiles to dry overnight, and remove spacers the following day, before grouting between them.

Tips & Warnings

• Tiles can be placed over old tiles or laminate. If your surface is too damaged, start by creating a new counter base.
• Substitute pennies for plastic spacers in a pinch. However, make sure to use one or the other to keep spacing uniform.
• Don't count on the exact same tile being available when you fail to purchase the correct amount necessary for your project. When you return at a later date the tile that's available, may not be an exact match to the tile originally purchased.