Replacing Tile Countertops

Start removing tiles from the edge of the countertop.

Replacing tile countertops.

Before you go shopping do your homework. Replacement counter the choices for a new counter include granite stone tiles laminates and porcelain tile. One of the big advantages of ceramic tile is its repairability. Lightly hammer on the chisel to take off these trim tiles.

Continue removing grout all throughout the tile surface. It s possible the tile can be matched. Before deciding on the removal examine the way the tile is attached to the countertop. Stone or solid surfacing countertops sporting deep cracks pitted areas and scorched marks are prime for replacing as are badly stained and broken ceramic tiled counters.

This will determine the best method for removal. Spread thinset mortar or tile mastic on the countertop substrate or on the wall if you re replacing a backsplash tile using an appropriately sized putty knife or trowel and then set the tile on the adhesive and tap it with a rubber mallet to seat it. In a kitchen or bathroom a tile countertop may have dirt grease mildew and other residue on its surface. Homeowners interested in achieving the look of stone when replacing kitchen countertops but without the hefty price tag have a variety of options from which to choose including solid surfaces like corian engineered quartz and even updated versions of laminate.

Scrub it with a mild abrasive cleaner and rinse it clean to remove all of the gunk. While the cabinets may stay in place a rimmed or self rimming top mounted sink nearly always needs to be replaced. Scrape the grout off to remove the trim tiles on the edges. Replace tiles one by one.

Each installation requires different substrates and installation procedures. Open cabinets to see how the countertops are attached to the cabinets and whether the tile is attached to any plaster or wallboard. If the color is slightly off it may blend in if you have to replace more tiles. Laminate countertops suffering from outdated colors or patterns deep knife cuts water damage or staining might also need replacing.

Jim kabel cr owner and general manager of case design says let s assume you re replacing a tile countertop with a solid surface like stone or an engineered composite surface such as silestone.