Tiling Countertops: quick tips and instructions, Guide4Home

Tiling Countertops - Quick Tips

Tiling Instructions

Unless you are a very competent do-it-yourselfer, it is not advised to attempt tiling a kitchen countertop yourself. Professional tilers may be expensive, but they are sure to do a proper job that will last for years. However, if you are determined to do it yourself, here are some tips and instructions on tiling countertops:

If necessary, you can lay new tile over plastic old laminate or existing tile. However, a new backing board made of exterior grade plywood is recommended. Just before you begin laying out the tile, you should mark the counterpoint of the countertop (if there is a sink, mark the center of the sink). Then test a line of tiles along the edge to see if this center line needs to be moved in order for there to be at least a half tile on the ends. If there is a sink, also test the positions of tiles lining it and label them so they can easily be put back in the same location when you are properly affixing them.

Set the edge tiles first by using special tile adhesive on the back of each tile. Use appropriate spacers between tiles if necessary. Next, affix the pre-cut tiles that will trim the edge of the sink. Then set the rest of the tiles (known as the Field Tiles) by starting from either the edge of the center and working all the way to the end.

The backsplash tiles are the last to be fixed. They should have bullnose edges which means they can be right on top of the final row of tiles against the wall. Once the tiles have had time to set, then begin grouting the gaps between tiles. The final finishing procedure is to apply some sort of overall sealing compound to the tiled countertop

Tiling Countertops - Quick Tips

Tiling Instructions

Home | Legal | Contact Us | Advertise with Us | Site Map | Privacy ©Guide4Home

Interior Decorating