Pro Handyman Blog

For countertops with ceramic tile, you have probably noticed that the corners can get beat up. When I say beat up, I mean they get chipped, cracked, or broken right off. Replacing them is a matter of finding a good match, securing them and grouting.

The key to a good finished product is to find the right color and style of tile. These corner tiles are called “V-Cap” tiles and are rounded over so you don’t have to cut two pieces to form the 90-degree corner. You must, however, make sure the surface of the new tiles matches the old tiles. The thickness should also be the same or you may find yourself grinding off some of the counter’s sub-top or adding mortar the get the height just right.

When you are ready to secure the tiles, you can use either thin set mortar or mastic. Use a notched trowel and lay down the mortar or mastic and set the tile in it. You should feel it smoosh in to the mortar or mastic. Make sure you get the height and spacing right. Some tiles have built-in lugs to keep the spacing uniform, and others you will need to use plastic spacers.

After the tiles are set and the mortar or mastic is dry, you can mix up the grout. Use a float and push it diagonally into the grooves and wipe it off with the float. Let this sit and then use a damp sponge to clean off the rest of the grout and dress the grout lines. Finally, wait until a haze builds on the tiles and use a clean white cloth to buff the haze off of the tiles.