How to Install Ceramic Counter Tops

The surface of your kitchen counter top determines the look, function and durability of your counter. Ceramic tile counter tops are stylish and durable. Laying tile may seem complicated but it is not that hard. There is no need to pay a lot to have someone install ceramic counter tops for you.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Straight edge
• Marking pencil
• 4-inch-square ceramic tiles
• Bucket
• Mortar mix
• Trowel
• Tile spacers, 1/8 inch
• Wet saw
• Grout
• Soft cloth
• Grout sealer
• Sealer applicator

Instructions

1. Use a tape measure to find the length and the width of the counter. Measure the length and the width of the backsplash, and of the counter edges. Multiply the lengths by the widths. This will give you the total square feet of the area. You will need nine tiles per square foot if you are using 4-inch ceramic tiles. Purchase 10 extra tiles to allow extras for edge cuts.

2. Find the center of the main part of the counter. Mark the center spot using a marking pencil. Measure 2 inches out from the center spot on all sides. Use a straight edge and marking pencil to draw lines where you have measured 2 inches out. You will have a 4 inch by 4 inch box. This is where the first ceramic tile will be placed. Use the straight edge and a marking pencil to extend the lines for the entire length and width of the counter. Do the same for the backsplash. You will use these lines as guidelines when laying the ceramic tile.

3. Mix the mortar in a bucket according to the package directions. Use a trowel to apply ¼ inch of mortar to the counter surface where the first ceramic tile will lie. Press the tile into place. Lay the second tile the same way. Insert 1/8-inch tile spacers between the ceramic tiles. Continue until all whole tiles are laid.

4. Measure the edges using a tape measure. Mark the ceramic tiles for the edges according to the edge measurements, measuring each edge tile separately because the counter may not be square. Use a wet saw to cut the tiles to size. Make sure to wear eye protection when using a wet saw. Lay each tile by applying mortar, pressing the ceramic tile into place and then inserting tile spacers. Corners will only have spacers on the inner sides. Corner tile edges should be flush with the edges of the counter.

5. Mix the grout in a bucket according to package directions. Remove all tile spacers. Apply grout over the entire counter and backsplash surface using a trowel. Don't forget the edges of the counter. Make sure to fill in the spaces between the ceramic tiles completely. Allow the grout to set for half an hour. Use a soft cloth to wipe the grout mixture off of the tiles before the grout fully dries. Make sure not to remove any of the grout from the spaces between the ceramic tiles. Allow the grout to set for 72 hours.

6. Use a grout sealer and a sealer applicator to seal the grout. Cover the entire surface of the counter with the grout sealer. Remove any excess sealer from the ceramic tile using a soft cloth before the sealer dries.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time, measuring carefully.

• Use care and caution when using a wet saw.

References

• Tips and information on Installing Tile