How to Set Tile Countertops
- 1). Measure the length and width of the base cabinets where you are setting the tile countertop. Allow extra for the countertop to overhang along the front of the cabinet. Use a circular saw to cut a piece of 3/4-inch plywood according to the measurements. If you want a thicker base, cut two matching pieces of plywood.
- 2). Set the plywood on the base cabinets. Use a level to make sure the plywood sets on a level plane. Add wood shims under the plywood as necessary.
- 3). Mark where the walls of the base cabinet align with the surface of the plywood. Predrill holes through the plywood into the base cabinets every 6 to 8 inches. Attach the plywood with screws.
- 4). Measure cement backer board to cover the top of the counter. Cut the backer board to fit with a circular saw. Measure strips of backer board to fit along the front and side edges of the countertop. Cut them out.
- 5). Mix thinset mortar to the consistency of mashed potatoes. Spread the thinset over the plywood with a notched trowel. Set the backer board on top of the thinset mortar. Attach the backer board to the plywood with cement screws. Set the edge strips in place as well.
- 6). Lay out the tiles on the countertop to experiment with different patterns. Once you decide on a tile pattern, use a framing square or carpenter's angle to draw lines on the backer board where you plan to set your tiles.
- 7). Mix another batch of thinset just like the previous step. Spread a small portion of it thinly over the backer board. Spread some on the back of the first tile you plan to set. Set the tile in place, following your guidelines. Press the tile firmly into the thinset. Add spacers to keep the tiles evenly spaced. Continue adding thinset and tile until you finish the top of the countertop.
- 8). Hold scraps of lumber in place with wood clamps on the face of the cabinet slightly below where the edge tiles are going to set. This serves as a support until the tiles adhere to the thinset.
- 9). Apply thinset to the front edge and sides of the countertop. Put thinset on the edging tiles and set them in place.
- 10
Allow the tiles to dry in the bed of thinset. Remove spacers. - 11
Work grout in between the tiles with a grout float. Wipe up excess grout with a damp sponge. Allow the grout to dry. - 12
Seal the tile if it's the type that requires it. In any case, you should seal the grout to keep food from staining it. Brush on grout sealer and allow it to dry.
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