How to Install Granite Tile on Bullnose Countertops

Measure the length and width of the base cabinets. Allow extra on the width for the amount of overhang you want on the front of the countertop.

Cut 3/4-inch plywood to fit on the top of the base cabinets, using a circular saw. Set the plywood on the base cabinets. Check that it is level from front to back, and side to side. If it’s not level, add wood shims under it to level it. Pre-drill holes spaced every 6 inches along the cabinet edges. Attach the plywood to the cabinets with 1 5/8-inch screws.

Cut 1/4-inch cement backer board to fit the countertop top, using a utility knife. Cut backer board to cover the countertop’s edges, as well. Secure the horizontal pieces of backer board to the plywood with screws set 6 to 8 inches apart. Cover all the edges with the narrow pieces of backer board that you cut. Countersink all the screws below the surface.

Cover all the edges and joints of backer board with self-adhesive mesh tape.

Measure and cut 1-by-3-inch lumber to the length you need for your bullnose edging. Cut 1 inch off the edge so the lumber is 2 inches wide. Use a router to cut the bullnose profile onto the lumber.

Sand the wood until all edges are smooth. Stain the wood by dipping a soft cloth into the stain and wiping it on the wood. Wipe off any excess with a second clean cloth.

Measure the thickness of the granite tiles you are using and add 1/16-inch to that amount. This is the height to set the edging above the countertop.

Apply a bead of construction adhesive to the front of the countertop. Hold the wood strip against the countertop edge so that the top of the bullnose edging is at the depth you determined in Step 7. Fasten the wood strip permanently to the countertop with finishing nails. Countersink the nails with a nail set. Fill the holes with wood putty that matches the color of the wood.

Dry set the granite tiles onto the countertop. Leave a narrow joint between the bullnose edging and the first row of tiles. Cut tiles, as necessary, with a wet saw equipped with a diamond blade.

Mix thinset mortar, according to package directions. Spread it on top of the backer board with a trowel. Set the granite tiles in place, taking care to keep the joints straight. Allow the mortar to set, according to package recommendations.

Mix grout, according to package directions. Work the grout between the tiles with a grout float. Wipe off any grout from the tiles with a clean, damp sponge. Do not apply grout to the joint between the tiles and the edging. Allow the grout time to dry, following package recommendations.

Run a bead of caulking, that matches the grout, between the tiles and the wood edging. Wet your index finger with water to work the caulking into the joint. Let the grout set until it dries.

Cover the wood edging with three coats of polyurethane. Allow each coat to dry before adding the next coat.