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.
