How to Install Tile Over Formica Countertops

Many people prefer to have tile, granite or other stone countertops over the laminated formica countertops. Unfortunately, most older homes will need to be updated from the existing formica. Tile can be installed directly on top of the existing countertop.

What you'll need:

• Tile


• Grout


• Latex thin-set adhesive


• Wet saw


• Spacers


• Square-notched trowel


• Level


• Sander


• Marker


• Rubber float


• Sponge

1. Prepare the area you will be tiling. Remove the sink, stove and anything on the countertops. Make sure the water is turned off before removing the sink.


2. Sand the countertop. Use the sander to create texture on the surface that will receive tile. This will allow the thin-set to adhere more securely.


3. Place the tiles on the countertop, starting around the sink area first. Move the tiles around until you find a design that works well for your space.


4. Draw a line where the row of tiles closes to the backsplash comes to a stop. Use the level as a straight edge. Draw perpendicular lines (at a 90-degree angle) to make the grid where the tiles will lie.


5. Draw lines on the tiles that will go around the sink to show where you will need to cut to make the angles. Use the lines on your countertop as your guide to ensure you get the angles correct.


6. Cut the tiles using the wet saw. The water keeps the tile from breaking when it is cut. Place the cut tiles back into the grid to make sure they line up correctly. It is important to do this before you start to adhere the tiles to the surface.


7. Apply a thin layer of the thin-set adhesive, using the trowel, to a section of the countertop. This is called a scratch coat. Make sure you can still see the lines so that you will know where to place the tiles.


8. Place a row of whole tiles onto the thin-set. Use spacers between the tiles to create even lines for the grout. Once you have a row of whole tiles, this will be your guide and the lines will no longer need to be visible. You will be able to grout a larger area at a time.


9. Put the angled (cut) tiles in place. This should be around the sink area.


10. The rest of the tiles can now be installed. Be sure to add the spacers on all sides of the tiles to make room for the grout.


11. Install the edge tiles last. This creates a finished look for your countertops. Be sure to use plenty of thin-set to have a strong hold.


12. Remove the spacers and grout the countertop after the thin-set has dried. You should allow approximately 24 hours for the drying process.


13. Fill the spaces between the tiles with grout using the rubber float. Pack in the griut and then spread it over the tile at a 45 degree angle.


14. Wipe the excess with a wet sponge as you go. Wipe in a diagonal motion and try to keep the sponge clean. Rinse it often.


15. Reinstall the sink and appliances when the grout is dry. This takes about 24 hours.