How To Installing A CounterTop

Another great Miss Fix It adventure -- How I installed my own countertop.  With the movement of going green circling the globe, I decide to install a countertop and put some green practices to use.  Definition of green - (3-R's) Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose. 

I know granite is the most sore after countertop, however it can be very pricey -- but you can get it for a steal (secret - shhh). How? By using granite tiles you can have a granite countertop too. I didn't use granite tiles, I used ceramic tiles, but the same method works for both. The total project cost less the $200.00 (countertop and backsplash).

I purchased all of my materials from Lowes:

• Ceramic Tiles
• Grout
• Sealer
• Tile Cutter
• Mastic
• Wood (countertop trim)
• Finishing nails
• Caulk
• Liquid Nail
• Trowel
  

I recommend that you attach the wood trim and dry lay your tiles first.  Once you're happy with the dry lay, mark the tiles for cuts.  You're on your way now.  Apply the mastic to your existing countertop or cement backer board (in small portions) with the trowel.  If you have a laminate countertop you do not need cement backer board.  Begin laying your tiles.  Allow the tiles to dry over night before grouting.  The same method works for the backsplash.

Begin grouting.  This is the mess part of the project.  Be sure to wipe up grout before it dries.  Let the grout dry over night.  Then you can apply the sealer, and caulk.

The liquid nail and finishing nails are use to attach the wood trim. 

I consider this project green because my old countertop was use and didn't make it's way to the landfill.  Cutting the tiles took a little skill (I messed-up my first 2-3 cuts), but after that it was smooth sailing.  Remember to rate my space (be nice).