Know Granite Tile Countertops Better
Some of us may have seen a granite tile countertops without knowing the name, this type of natural stone product usually used for kitchen countertops since granite has a density that can resist bacteria, granite also similar to diamonds in the terms of hardness and strength, this make granite has high wear resistance. Although granite originates from hot liquid magma, when you are looking at granite tile countertops you will see a combination of feldspar, quartz and mica that is different in proportioned according with granite. Granite tile countertops will cost less than a third from solid granite countertops costs, since no special tools are needed to make and install the granite tile.
Although the granite tile countertops costs less than a third from the solid granite, it still have the same natural beauty and wear resistance just like the solid. A large selection of granite tile countertops can be found in offline and also online stores, and some even offer sample kit that consists all the colors of the granite tile they have. Another benefit in using granite tile countertops is the easy to clean specifications, all you have to do is wipe the surface of the countertops and you will get nice clean countertops.
Granite tile countertops can be an alternative for solid granite countertops, besides for the price that is lower, this kind of countertops are also practical in the installation since no special tools are needed. It is so practical that you can buy the granite tiles at home depot or stone tile depot with affordable price and then installed the tiles yourself. If you are buying granite tiles from an online store, the website usually offers frequent ask questions to help you in understanding and installing the tiles, and in some cases offers the comparisons between solid granite to granite tiles.
Installing Your Granite Tile Countertops
A logical solution from expensive solid granite countertops are the granite tile countertops. Made from various natural minerals such as feldspar, quartz, and mica, the colors, textures, and structures are similar to solid granite. With the same quality in bacteria resistance, and also the wear resistance like solid granite, granite tile countertops only cost you less than a third of solid granite countertops will cost. This advantages also supported by the practical installation since no special tools are needed to install granite tile countertops.
If you consider installing granite tile countertops yourself, there are several steps to do, first is you have to measure the tile and plan the tile counters. Then you have to prepare the tools needed such as tape measure, safety glasses, jigsaw, and other tools. First step is removing the existing countertops and make sure the cabinets are level. Second is cut the plywood that will serve as the base for the top, do not forget to screw the plywood to the top of the cabinets. Once the plywood has been screwed, cover with cement backer board.
Before installing the granite tile countertops, make sure to polish any exposed edges by using special polisher that is designed for stone. You also have to overhang the tiles to allow for edging when it comes the time to lay the tiles. If the tiles size does not fit the cabinet, you can cut the tiles using special tile saw. You can easily rent the tile saws and the polishers in the nearest tool rental centers.
Do not forget to use tape when the mortar has not dried yet, this can help in holding the tiles edges. You can also use rubber padded grout to force the grout out, and wait for it to dry. After putting high quality sealer to prevent stains, you will have your beautiful granite tile countertops ready to use.