We'd like to replace our laminate kitchen countertop with granite tiles. I've been told that if the laminate is in good condition, the tiles can be put on right on top of the laminate (with the right prep work).
Have any of you redone your own kitchen counters? We're scared, as we're not terribly handy around the house. Any advice (other than "don't do it!")?
2007-12-31 09:10:11 · 3 answers · asked by Carol M 3 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
I'm not sure how we'd handle the corners - they're rounded, not square.
2007-12-31 09:41:32 · update #1
I tile every day of my life, and have done many work surfaces in tile, but I agree in part with # 1. I'd probably go with a solid, of anything, even Corian, over tile. If you are commited to tile you'll probably have to make cuts. If you're committed to granite, I suspect you won't find Bullnose or it's reverse, for a face or backsplash.
If you must go with tile, you might find a flooring contractor willing to cut pieces to the size you need, perhaps even at their shop. I also suggest the smallest grout lines you can make in the install.
With no disrespect to Roadrunner, or anyone else suggesting so, YES certainly with the proper prep you can tile, even over Formica. I wouldn't, but that's just a personal choice gained through experience. If you're going to bother roughing the Mica, or grinding/scoring, why not just remove it?
Steven Wolf
2007-12-31 09:40:43 · answer #1 · answered by DIY Doc 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Tiles can be attached to laminate, only if the laminate has not be heat formed-meaning the bull-nose edge & backsplash is a continual piece from the main body of the counter top. If the laminate has "square" corners, then you can use some heavy sandpaper (60 grit or lower) to roughen up the surface so that the adhesive has something to grab to.
Also-check under the counter by the sink, sometimes water will migrate under the sink lip and start to swell the particle board substrate. If this is the case, then you will have to cut out this piece of countertop until you get to solid wood again, making sure the seam is over the top of a cabinet frame.
2007-12-31 09:24:38 · answer #2 · answered by roadrunnerjim 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Tiles are not a good choice for a busy kitchen counter top. Think sanitary.
But if you are determined to do this, you will need to cut some of the tiles. Not a beginner's job. How would you finish the edges of the counter?
2007-12-31 09:21:24 · answer #3 · answered by Charley Horse 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋