How to Put Tile Over a Formica Backsplash

A tile backsplash makes a beautiful kitchen.

Installing ceramic tile over a laminate backsplash will transform a surface that will eventually need repair into a surface that will last a lifetime. The fact that the backsplash is covered with a laminate surface is not a problem as long as it is well-bonded to the drywall, has a smooth surface and it is not buckling. Attempting to remove a well stuck laminate surface will destroy the underlying drywall, so you would always want to tile over the laminate if it is in good shape.

Things You'll Need

• Coarse sandpaper
• Drywall screws
• Household cleanser
• Notched trowel
• Type II tile glue
• Ceramic tile
• Measuring tape
• Tile cutting machine
• Tile snips
• Grout pad
• Grout
• Sponge
• Silicone Caulk
• Caulk gun

Instructions

1. Remove all electrical plates that are covering the laminate. Rub over the laminate with the sandpaper to rough up the surface a bit. Use a cleanser to wash any grease or debris from the laminate surface. If there are any small areas of the laminate that are loose, use drywall screws to secure them to the wall.

2. Spread glue using the notched trowel from the countertop to under the cabinets. Begin laying whole tile across the bottom of the backsplash from end to end. Continue laying whole tile one row at a time until you have installed all the whole tiles.

3. Measure the space at the top and cut tiles with the cutting machine to fit. Make sure the cut edge is against the cabinets. Use the tile snips to cut around any electrical outlets and switches. These cuts don’t have to be perfect. Check the plates to make sure rough edges are covered up. Wash any excess glue from the tile.

4. Mix grout according to manufacturer’s directions. Spread grout across the tiles with the grout pad, forcing grout into the tile joints. Wipe as much excess grout as you can with the edge of the grout pad. Wash the rest of the grout from the tile with a damp sponge, smoothing the grout joints at the same time. Allow the grout to dry.

5. Wash the tile again with clean water. Buff the tile with a dry towel. Apply caulk using the caulk gun between the tile and the countertop and also between the tile and the cabinets. Reinstall the electrical plates.

Tips & Warnings

• Have someone at the tile store show you how to use the tile cutters and snips.

• You will need to loosen up the screws holding the electrical outlets and switchboxes 1/4 inch so the plates will fit back flush. You may have to buy new screws.

References

• This Old House: How to Install a Tile Backsplash