Tile over laminite

hmc

Can I tile right over my laminate counter tops? I would love Granite counter tops but there is just wayyyy too much counter top space for it to be economically feasible. Not to mention the laminate is in great shape (maybe 7 years old), it is just ugly. So I was thinking granite tile:D ?

jproffer

You'll have to take the bullnosing off the front of the top, but otherwise I don't see why you couldn't. The bullnosing should be just a plastic type strip in about 3/4" from the front, start at it with a chisel until you get a small area loose. Then (hopefully) it will pull out of it's slot. You may have to put 1/4" concrete board over what's left in order to start with a flat surface.

A second, and possibly better option would be: Remove the laminate CT altogether and build up a new one with 3/4" plywood (not OSB), 1/2" concrete board in a bed of thinset (not mastic...thinset comes dry in a bag and is mixed with water, and is not water soluble) and attached with screws made for concrete board, then tile on top. Finished height would be around 1 1/2" - 1 3/4", but would last a very long time if done correctly.

mighty anvil

Granite tile can be very beautiful and functional especially if the joints are kept tight. The counter edge can be a challenge though.

Floorwizard

Chances are there is some minor seperation in the lam that can cause problems.
Best to start with a new substrate.
If there is any future seperation of the lam and substrate, it will affect the tile.