Increase the value of your kitchen and enjoy a beautiful, durable countertop when you exchange laminate countertops for granite countertops. The easiest and most cost effective way to make the switch is to glue granite countertops on top of laminate ones. When you decide to install granite tile instead of a granite slab, the job costs less for your supplies and you save money on labor because you can install the tile on your own.

1
Clean your laminate countertops thoroughly using rubbing alcohol. This helps remove any stains and wipes away any particulates that could prevent the granite tile from laying smoothly. Allow the countertops to air dry.

2
Apply construction adhesive liberally on top of your laminate countertops. This glue will help create a strong bond between the foundation for your granite tile and your existing countertops.

3
Place backer board on top of the construction adhesive, cut to fit your countertop dimensions.

4
Pour a small amount of thinset mortar on top of your backer board. Evenly distribute it around your backer board using a ¼-inch trowel.

5
Install granite tile on top of your backer board. Lay the tile down on top of the mortar, and then press the tile down slightly so it adheres. Place spacers between each tile to create even grout lines.

6
Use a wet saw to cut tiles so they cover the front and side of your countertop, where the backer board covering the laminate countertop is exposed. Cut the tiles exactly to size so they line up evenly across the countertop.

7
Distribute more thinset mortar on the front and side of the countertop, then install your cut granite tiles, using spacers in between.

8
Wait overnight before you try to apply grout to your granite tile countertop. Remove the spacers when the tile dries.

9
Mix unsanded grout with water according to the package directions. When you finish, it should be the same consistency as peanut butter.

10
Smooth grout into the lines between each tile using your trowel. Wipe any excess grout away with a damp sponge.