How to Apply Ceramic Tile on Countertops

Measure the plywood subsurface for length and width and transfer these measurements to the cement board. Cut the board along the marked lines with a circular saw.

Place the cement board over the plywood and drill drywall screws through it and into the plywood.

Measure the edge of the counter to include the plywood and the thickness of the top cement board layer. This way when the edge piece is installed it will form a right angle. Cut the edge strip and use drywall screws to attach it.

Climb under the cabinet and locate where the sink opening is in the plywood. Following along the plywood opening, use a jigsaw to cut through the cement board so that the sink hole is seen from the top of the counter. This way you can cut tiles as needed to fit around the opening.

Spread thinset mortar along the edge of the counter and place the counter edge pieces over top of it. Use the notched trowel to smear it on so that it is even. As you place the edge pieces on, use a spacer to keep the tiles one-quarter inch apart. If using a heavy tile that won't stay in place, tape the edge pieces down to the top and let them dry until the next day before continuing.

Cut tiles with the circular saw and a carbide tip blade. If using a stone tile, consider using a diamond- tip blade instead. Measure the place where the tile is to go and subtract one-quarter inch, which is meant for the gap between tiles. For example if there is a space of 5 inches between the last tile laid and the end of the row, subtract one-quarter inch from the 5 inches for the gap you are putting between the tiles. The 4 3/4 inches left is the dimension needed for the tile. Mark the tile and cut along the lines.

Spread thinset over the cement board on top of the countertop. Start along the front edge and place tiles over the ends of the side edge tiles to form a square angle. Use the notched trowel to spread the thinset evenly over a small space so that it doesn't dry before you have set the tiles in place. Once you put down the tiles, spread more thinset and continue until you cover the cement board. Cut as needed the same as you did the edge trim.

Let the tile set up for a day.

Use the grout rubber float to spread and force the grout into the gaps. Wipe away the excess to clean the top of the tiles before the grout dries. Let the grout set for another two days.

Squeeze a tube of grout sealant along the grout lines to seal the grout and protect it from stains. It should dry within a few hours.