How to Install a Granite Tile Over Formica Countertops

Granite tile countertops are a cost effective way to add the look of granite to your existing Formica countertops. Although you can pay someone to do the work for you, you can save even money by doing the work yourself over the course of a weekend.

Things You'll Need:

• Utility knife


• Tape measure


• Pencil


• Granite tiles


• Grout


• Trowel


• Tile spacers


• Tile float


• Damp sponge

1. Score the Formica on your counter top and backsplash using a utility knife. This gives the grout a rougher surface to adhere to.


2. Use a tape measure to locate the center of the countertop. With a pencil, mark the center of the counter top. 


3. Lay out your granite tiles, starting from the center of the countertop, to get an idea how you want the tiles to look. By starting in the center, you will have fewer tiles to cut when you get to the corners and edges of your counter top.


4. Remove the tiles and mix a batch of tile grout.


5. Spread the grout in a small area near the center of your counter top with a trowel.


6. Place the center granite tile in the grout and press down firmly.


7. Add tiles around the center tile. Between the center tile and the tiles around it, add tile spacers to keep the tiles properly spaced. Continue adding tiles and spacers. As you come to the edges or corners, cut the tiles using a tile cutter to get the right fit.


8. Let the grout dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.


9. Remove the tile spacers.


10. Mix a new batch of tile grout and add it between the tiles using a tile float.


11. Wipe excess grout from the granite tile with a damp sponge quickly before the grout dries on top of the tiles. Allow the grout to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.