How to Build a Tile Counter Top

Granite and other stone counter tops are popular additions to kitchens and bathrooms. Unfortunately solid counter tops are expensive. A less expensive stone alternative is to install tile counter tops with the same stones. The tile counter top has the same appearance at a fraction of the cost. Tile counter top installation doesn't require the special cutting and milling that a slab counter top does, so it's also a good project for an experienced do-it-yourselfer.

Things You'll Need

• Pry bar
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Wooden shims
• Circular saw
• 3/4-inch plywood
• Wood screws
• Cement backer board
• Thinset mortar
• Trowel
• Cement screws, 1 1/4-inch
• Framing square
• Scrap 2-by-4 inch lumber
• Grout
• Grout float
• Sponge
• Grout sealer
• Brush
• Tile sealer
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Remove the old counter top by prying it up with a pry bar. Some counter tops have screws or clips that hold them in place.

2. Measure the length and width of the counter top installation. Allow extra width for the front overhang.

3. Set a level on the base cabinets to make sure they are level from front to back and side to side. If they aren't, set wooden shims in place on top of the cabinet frames to level them.

4. Measure a piece of 3/4-inch plywood to the counter top's dimensions. Cut out the counter top base with a circular saw. If you want a thicker counter top, cut two pieces of 3/4-inch plywood.

5. Set the plywood on top of the cabinet bases. Mark where the cabinet walls contact the plywood. Drill pilot holes through the plywood in the spots you marked. Use wood screws placed approximately 6 inches apart to connect the plywood to the base cabinets. Place screws along the front and back of the base cabinets as well.

6. Cut a layer of cement backer board to fit the counter top. Cut a strip of backer board to fit on the front face of the counter top. Mix thinset mortar to the consistency of mashed potatoes. Apply it to the plywood layer with a trowel. Set the backer board on the plywood and press it down firmly. Place 1 1/4-inch cement screws every 8 inches to secure the pieces of backer board in position.

7. Use a framing square to draw lines on the backer board where you plan to set the tile. Set your tiles on the backer board to experiment with layouts. Once you figure out the layout, remove the tiles.

8. Mix about a quart of thinset mortar to mashed potato consistency. Spread it on the counter top to the depth recommended by the thinset manufacturer. Use your lines as a guide to press the tiles in place. Put spacers between the tiles to help keep the lines straight. Continue mixing more thinset as needed until you finish the tile counter top.

9. Put scrap 2-by-4 inch lumber under the front edge to support the face tile. Hold the lumber in place with wood clamps attached to the base cabinets. Set the tiles in place. Allow the bottom edge of the tile to rest on the 2-by-4 inch lumber.

10. Let the thinset mortar dry according to the manufacturer's recommendation. Remove the spacers.

11. Mix grout according to directions. It should be about the consistency of toothpaste. Use a grout float to work it into the cracks between the tiles. Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge.

12. Give the grout at least three days to cure. Apply a grout sealer with a brush and allow it to dry. If your tile is porous, apply a tile sealer with a soft cloth and allow it to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• If you must cut granite tile, use a diamond-bladed wet saw. To cut ceramic tiles, use glass cutters.

References

• Danny Lipford: How to Install a Granite Tile Countertop
• The Family Handyman: Installing Tile Countertops