Can ceramic tile be applied over laminate countertops without backer board and what mastic would be best ?

Answer 1

Hi there. You've received several wrong answers so I'd like to give you the correct one. Yes you can... just be sure and use the right product to adhere the tile to the countertop. This is a common installation... it's not a trick or a frowned upon installation, either. And... it's a good question!

Yes. I'm assuming these tiles are either 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 tiles. Correct? Ok... then preperation is simple. If you're using a larger tile (than 4 x 4, 6 x 6) the adhesive I am going to recommend (which is designed for this type of installation) will not work and you'll need to go about slightly different measures. Let me know if this is your case.

Again assuming these are not larger sized tiles... personally, I roughen up the countertop just a bit (not a lot) so that any non-visible film like build-ups, sealers or contaminants are definately not there so you're sure the tiles will properly adhere to the 'soon to be covered' countertops. You can do this very easily with a rough sandpaper. Don't go crazy... you're not trying to sand off the laminate... just make it slightly rough. Next, thoroughly clean the surface... make sure there isn't any remaining dust from your quick sanding. Now for the installation.

The product I suggest that you use to adhere the tile to the countertop... which again, is recommended for ceramic tile on a countertop, is mastic by TEC. My product of choice is Double Duty Mastic by TEC, available at many tile stores but you won't find this paticular brand at your local Lowes or Home Depot. I suggest you call several local tile supply shops (not home stores) to find mastic by tec. If you can't find it locally, let them know you need a mastic that will work for adhering tile to a countertop. Be careful with mastics at home stores as they don't all have the proper rating for laminate countertops... I consider these generics and not worth the risk. This is why I thought you poised an excellent question... you obviously caught on that not necessarily all mastics will be good for your installation. Great job!

Anyway, use a 3/16 - 5/32" v-notch trowel to apply the mastic to the surface. Don't do this to the whole countertop... just a small section at a time, applying more as you go. As you place each tile to the countertop, you want to lightly press each tile down with your fingers and ensure that it is level with the rest... check your level as you go and pay close attention to the corners of each tile as you press down on it.

That's about it... I'm sure, judging by your question that you are familiar with setting tile. If you have any questions about cuts or anything, let me know.

Answer 2

Tile Countertops Over Laminate

Answer 3

Tile Over Laminate

Answer 4

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RE:
Can ceramic tile be applied over laminate countertops without backer board and what mastic would be best ?

Answer 5

i applied granite tiles over the existing laminate on my countertops. i washed them with TSP first and then sanded them with a very course sandpaper. havent had any problems yet, and its been about a year and a half. just make sure that the laminate is sound and not lifting anywhere. i used a tile adhesive specially made for natural stone and a good quality grout with a sealer on it.

Answer 6

I attempted to tile over laminate flooring once and the thin set mortar just would not dry. I had to rip up the laminate after trying three types of mortar.

Answer 7

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Answer 8

go ahead & throw away your tile now, it will be easier than later!