granite tile edge update, and...

[Renata]

To update on the granite tile counter edge polishing...

Ordered a set of diamond polishing pads, brick pattern, from granite city tools (they were very helpful! highly recommended), plus a buffing pad, and went to work. 60 grit thru 3000 in 7 steps, then the buffing pad. Worked wonderfully! Edge looks as good as the top.

But, when I cut the strips that are to go on the edge (hide the plywood & backerboard), the blade chipped the tile no matter how careful I was. When you put the strip up against the overhanging tile, the somewhat rough edge of the underside of the tile and chipped edge of the strip don't look good. I thought about going with a wood edge at that point, but I'm thinking that I might try to grind down the meeting edges at ~45 degrees to remove the chip marks, then butt the tiles together. Or, maybe, just grind them a bit to remove the chipping...

Do you folks think that's feasible without the special $125++ router bit? Alternate ideas?

crude ascii representation

____ | countertop | | / / bottom of countertop tile \ \ strip tile to hide counter base | | | | | |

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Thanx Renata

[Markem]

A wet tile saw from the rental place?

The wife's brother in law is a marble mason that is the tool he uses (he has about 6) he also uses a heavy duty worm drive circular saw with wet diamond blade. Thank god for GFCI.

Mark (sixoneeight) = 618

[RicodJour]

I borrow a lapidary saw and polisher from a friend when I do such things. Trying to do it with a tub saw is almost impossible - either the top or bottom will always chip out some.

You're reinventing quirked edges. It does help hide lippage and gives you some wiggle room to remove small chips.

I'd be concerned about longevity of the exposed edge. It's granite, but it will still chip if a pot bangs into the edge.

R

[Renata]

Excellent point that I failed to consider. Thus, why I solicit others' thoughts. Thanx!

Renata