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New countertop vs exisiting tile backsplash

13 years ago

I am hoping someone can help me figure out the best solution to this problem...we have a tile backsplash in our kitchen that we have decided to keep, but we are hoping to have new post form laminate countertops installed. Our old countertops have a laminate backsplash that is 3 1/2 inches tall, which runs flush with the tile backsplash above it.

The new countertops can have a backsplash that would either be 3 inches tall or they could have one that will be 3 3/4 inches tall (depending on the style), but, of course, there is no option to do one at 3 1/2 inches.

If we go with the 3 inch one, that will leave a 1/2 inch gap between the new countertop and the tile backsplash. If we go this route, I am not sure how to fill this gap.

If we go with the 3 3/4 inch one, the countertop will actually overlap the tile backsplash. In this case, the back of the countertop will not sit flush against the wall, but will have about 1/2 inch gap to account for the tile above it.

I do not know which option is better...any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

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Comments (3)

doraville
13 years ago
I wonder if there were some type of border you could put between the two. I also wonder why the larger on can't be cut to the right size.
bill_vincent
13 years ago
What you might do is find out if the countertop people might have a 4 1/2" grinder with a continuous rim dry diamond blade (if they do anything other than laminate countertops, it's almost guaranteed they'll have this). They can lay the backsplash piece up dry, and mark a line on the tile, pull the backsplash piece back down, and then cut it with the grinder, following it up with a shop-vac to cut down the dust. Then you can use the 3 3/4" splash, and it'll sit properly, no gap, and live happily ever after! :-)
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texaskitchentoo
13 years ago
Why are you replacing the entire counertop if you are basically just changing the color of the laminate? Do you know the laminate can be removed from the substrate and re-done with new laminate? Then it does not matter how tall your backsplash is.

If the substrate is sound I'd suggest calling some laminate contractors in your area and see if they can do this. I had it done in a rental and it was cheap and took half a day. A propane torch on a low setting run over the surface of the laminate will 'pop' it right off. New sheets can be glued down and routed to fit. I had this done on a decent size kitchen for under 1,000.

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