Cost for tile counters vary depending on the tile chosen and the quality of the installation. Figure $35 to $40 a square foot for installation and tile. Creating fancy inlays and cutting tiles to fit intricate spaces will add to the cost.
There are two schools of thought about installing tile, says Lee. Old school suggests using a vapor barrier on a plywood base, wire mesh, a cement base, and a thinset of cement and sand with a latex additive to allow time for placement. The installer would then finish with a colored cement-based grout.
Cement backer board makes a second method of countertop installation possible that lets handyman tile setters or homeowners complete a professional quality installation job. When using cement backer board, a plywood base is screwed to the counter before the cement backer board is screwed and glued to it. The tiles are installed on this base with thinset and grout finish. This method is quicker and may offer a small cost savings.
Regardless of the method, a poor installation can result in tiles moving or popping up. Tiles with uneven or rounded edges may pose more maintenance issues because they often require a wider grout line.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Tile Maintenance and Repair
Discolored grout is the biggest drawback to living with tile. Grout is porous and tends to absorb water when the seal breaks down. This can lead to discoloration, mold, or water penetrating the grout and getting behind the tile. Sealing and regular cleaning help keep grout joints stain-free. Mike Lee of Brighton Restoration, Salt Lake City, Utah, recommends a light bleach and water concentrate for white grout and a light vinegar solution for colored grout.
Some natural stone tiles have issues with staining from coffee, hot oils, or lemon juice. They, too, require regular sealing. Glazed tiles, like porcelain, have their own finish and don’t require surface upkeep.
Tile can be scratched or chipped. Edges are especially vulnerable to dings from pots, pans, or barstools. Ceramic tiles tend to chip more easily than others. A tile surface can be repaired by replacing damaged tiles with new ones. This typically involves chiseling out the damaged tile and replacing it with a similar tile. For that reason, it’s good to squirrel away a few tiles for possible future repair. It’s also important to remember that all tiles for a project should come from the same batch, identified by batch number, to ensure that the color and finish are the same.
Some natural stone tiles have issues with staining from coffee, hot oils, or lemon juice. They, too, require regular sealing. Glazed tiles, like porcelain, have their own finish and don’t require surface upkeep.
Tile can be scratched or chipped. Edges are especially vulnerable to dings from pots, pans, or barstools. Ceramic tiles tend to chip more easily than others. A tile surface can be repaired by replacing damaged tiles with new ones. This typically involves chiseling out the damaged tile and replacing it with a similar tile. For that reason, it’s good to squirrel away a few tiles for possible future repair. It’s also important to remember that all tiles for a project should come from the same batch, identified by batch number, to ensure that the color and finish are the same.
Tile Countertops
The right tile countertop can personalize a kitchen; stand up to spills, heat and oils; and create a unique, personalized look for the kitchen.
Tile is known for its heat resistance and beauty. It comes in several forms, sizes, and colors and can be manufactured or handcrafted for an artisanal look. When selecting tile for the kitchen, it is best to evaluate the tile’s qualities and pay special attention to sealing the grout to get a surface that will live up to the demands of a busy kitchen.
Tile is known for its heat resistance and beauty. It comes in several forms, sizes, and colors and can be manufactured or handcrafted for an artisanal look. When selecting tile for the kitchen, it is best to evaluate the tile’s qualities and pay special attention to sealing the grout to get a surface that will live up to the demands of a busy kitchen.
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