Things You'll Need:
- Plywood
- Screws
- Drill and screwdriver for attaching plywood
- Level
- Ceramic tiles of your choice
- Tile spacers
- Framing square
- Tile nippers (for cutting partial tiles)
- Safety glasses
- Rubber gloves
- Disposable plastic spreader or notched trowel
- Tile adhesive
- Rubber mallet
- Bedding block
- Grout mix
- Rubber float
- Sponge and cleaning cloths
- Bucket for rinsing sponge
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Step 1
Build the base for your tiles using 3/4-inch plywood (a piece the size of your counter). Reinforce this with a second layer of the same plywood to create a built up edge of 1 1/4 inches. This not only gives added strength but creates the proper thickness for the bullnose trim. Using your level, check that the countertop is level before proceeding.
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Step 2
Lay out your tiles. Do a dry run of the design layout to make certain the tiles will be square on the countertop. Use spacers to get the proper allowance for the grout joints. You may find that you'll need to cut some tiles to fit on the ends or in odd-shaped locations. Always wear safety glasses when cutting tiles. Once you have double checked that the tiles will fit properly you can then remove them from the countertop.
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Step 3
Apply a layer of tile adhesive to the countertop using a disposable plastic spreader or notched trowel. Work in one small area at a time to prevent the adhesive from drying out.
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Step 4
Lay the tiles on the adhesive. Use spacers to get the proper distance between tiles. Lay out full tiles first then add the partial tiles. Continually check your work, using a framing square to make sure the tiles are square.
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Step 5
Continue working one small area at a time until all the tiles are in place. Use a rubber mallet and bedding block to firmly seat the tiles in the adhesive. Check your work to make certain it remains square and level.
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Step 6
Apply adhesive to the edge of the countertop and to the backs of the bullnose trim tiles. Line the trim tiles along the edge lining them up with the tiles on the top of the counter.
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Step 7
Allow the adhesive a couple of hours to set. Remove the spacers and wipe away any adhesive with a damp cloth. Wait at least 24 hours for the adhesive to cure before you start grouting.
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Step 8
Spread grout mix over the entire tiled surface using a rubber float and working on the diagonal. Allow the grout to set until firm and then using a damp sponge wipe the excess from the tiles. Rinse the sponge frequently as you go. Once the tiles are dry you can then finish the cleaning process with a slightly damp cloth. Allow the entire project to dry for several days before putting it to use.
