How to Install Aprons on Granite Tile Countertops

Cut a 3/4-inch-thick plywood panel to form the front apron and serve as its structural support. The panel should fit flush against the underside of the countertop and be level on all sides. Use a circular saw to cut the plywood to the same size you want the granite tile apron to be, minus 1/2-inch on all sides. This extra space will allow for the installation of the tile backer board.

Place the plywood panel onto a flat surface and use this opportunity to lay out your apron tile pattern. Start at the center of the panel with a full tile and measure, cut and lay tiles out to the edges. Add about 3/4-inch on each edge, except for the top, to account for backer board and tile which will be installed later. Mark the tiles and use a tile saw to make each cut. Lay the tiles back onto the panel to check for fit and do not forget to account for an 1/8-inch seam between each tile.

Install the plywood panel onto the cabinet facing so that it completely covers the drawer blank opening and sits perfectly centered. Use the tape measure to check the position along both edges of the panel. Use a power drill to make pilot holes every 6 inches or so along the perimeter of the plywood panel and into the cabinet behind it. Equip the power drill with a countersink bit to make small seats over each pilot hole so the screws sit flush against the cabinet surface once installed. Use a screw gun and wood screws to fasten the plywood panel to the cabinet.

Measure the plywood panel and write down its dimensions then use a straightedge and pencil to transfer these measurements onto a sheet of 1/2-inch cement backer board. Use a carbide scoring blade to make a groove along the board, crack it off then trim the liner on the opposite side to detach it completely.

Install the backer board panel onto the plywood panel. Use the power drill to make pilot holes every 6 inches and countersink these holes. Use the screw gun to fasten the backer board in place. Cut a strip of backer board to fit each edge of the apron panel you have just installed. Use the screw gun to fasten each strip in place so that all surfaces of the apron are covered with backer board.

Mount a strip of 1-by-3 inch lumber along the bottom edge of the plywood panel so that it forms a protruding ledge. Use the screw gun and wood screws to fasten the ledge in place.

Apply a coat of thinset mortar to the apron panel with a notched trowel. Spread the mortar to the depth of the trowel notches. The grooves formed in the mortar by the trowel notches will help create a tight bond with the tile. Press each of the granite tiles into the mortar, starting at the bottom edge along the ledge until the entire facing is covered. Wipe away any excess mortar from the edges of the apron so it does not dry and interfere with the side installation later on.

Apply lengths of masking tape across the apron to help hold the tiles in position as they dry. Allow the mortar to dry per the manufacturer's instructions then remove the tape and the wooden ledge. Move to the sides and bottom of the apron and repeat the tile installation process.