Questions about Stone Tiling Countertop

[Mark D]

Hi All, First post here, and I need some help/advice.

A person that I've done painting, and carpentry work for, has asked me if I could re-tile the 40 year old Kitchen Countertops with a stone (or possibly a Ceramic) tile

This L-Shaped Counter Top, and 4" high Backsplash is about 10 feet in one direction, and 6 feet in another, and is currently covered with Formica. It has slightly lifted at the top joining seam, and there's one small bubble, other than that, the top is in very good shape, and is perfectly flat, and secure everywhere else.

My concern is, she thinks that it will be an easy job, removing the existing Formica Covering, which I know it won't be. I figure I most likely will be ripping 1/2 the plywood underneath with it.

My question is, Can I lay stone Tile directly over the Formica Top? Is there a proper adhesive designed for applying stone tile directly over the Formica?

If not, what other options are there?

It sure would be a heck of a lot easier if I can, but this is something that I don't have mucho experience in, and don't want to make a serious error with incorrect installation. TIA Mark D.

[Carpenter]

I wouldn't. I would rip the formica off than replace / repair the plywood and put a thin hardyback board on top before tiling.

While the formica is off I would check for alignment and secure fastening to the wall and between cabinets.

But that's me :>)

[Tim Killian]

You have to take out the old countertops or the new surface will be at the wrong height. As others mentioned, use a cement backerboard if you want the tiles to remain in place more than a few months. It's not worth it to cut corners on a job like this.

It's your choice, but I'd have to wonder why you want to use stone tile in this situation? Stone looks nice initially, but countertops have stuff spilled on them, and the stone will stain. The pores also hold dirt and bacteria very nicely, so sanitation is a question too.

[Mark D]

I wouldn't. I would rip the formica off than replace / repair the plywood and put a thin hardyback board on top before tiling. While the formica is off I would check for alignment and secure fastening to the wall and between cabinets. But that's me :>)

--------------------------------------------------------------- Hi, I sort of figured that a HardiBack sheet would have to be used. I would assume 1/4" thick would be adequate?

Naturally, I would have to take out both the Kitchen Sink Basin, and Electric Countertop Range before proceeding, so adding Tile on top shouldn't be a problem.

And I agree also about NOT using Stone Tile for a Countertop for the reasons you state. Also, Stone Tile would be very unforgiving should you tip over a glass, or Coffee Cup on it.

I've tried talking her out of going with Stone Tile, and one would think it would not be the best route to go. I honestly don't think I'm going to take the job, as I might be getting myself into a real nightmare. If it was me, I'd probably replace the entire Counter with Corian. Thanks, Mark

[Carpenter]

yes, 1/4 " should be good

Playing with levels should be fun. Let's see, the range on top of the stone and the sink flush with it?

Was not me, but I'm with you.

True, but that's the owner responsibility. Afer sealing everything you're off the hook and could be called again and again to re-seal ;>)

If the owner is a stone person, Corian will never please her.