[Shop-talk] Alternative kitchen countertops?

[pethier at comcast.net]

> Redid our counters with granite floor tiles. Was two decades ago when
> tiles were cheaper. We found a bargain on a nice tiles under 4$ a
> square foot. Prices are higher now but shopping around you might find
> some bargains. Put down 3/4 plywood and layer of cement board set in
> mortar. Bought a cheap tile saw (< $100) and ripped strips for the
> edge
> and laid the tiles on top. I used a narrow gap and grout that closely
> matched the tiles. Also deliberately choose a fine grain granite so
> the
> tiles would not stand out. Sealed there hasn't be much grout staining
> except around the coffee maker and bleach does a good cleaning that. A
> modest kitchen, about 22 linear feet including and island, was under
> $700.

Sue and I made a countertop for the new cabinets we put in the dining room.  I fitted the backer-board and she set the tile.  She does not let me touch tile, plastering or paint.  She loves mixed stone-and-glass tiles and was looking for a place to use them. I don't think I'd like this for a kitchen, though.

She wanted me to buy her a new miter saw for Christmas just so she could make the miter on the wood edging.

I'm going to try to remember to shoot the kitchen counter for a shop-talker who asked.  I should shoot this too.  I'll post on my Flickr site tonight, if I remember to do it...


Phil Ethier West Side Saint Paul Minnesota USA
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pethier at comcast.net
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