Anyone replace a countertop? How much damage to backsplash?

13 years ago

We're thinking of replacing our Corian backplash with granite. We'd have a professional do it, but even so I understand that we will at least have to replace the bottom row of backsplash tile.

Anyone done this? What was the damage or lessons learned?

Thanks, Sue

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (3)

Gena Hooper
13 years ago
In preparing our house for sale, we had our laminate countertop replaced with 2 cm granite. Our installer was concerned about the backsplash and wanted to make sure we had extra in hand in case any cracked. He did have to grind down some of the base tiles, but all went smoothly. By the way, the backsplash is 4x4 Italian porcelain tile (I don't know if that makes a difference).
ella_socal
13 years ago
I just had my granite removed and replaced with marble. A lot of installers told me that the bottom row of the backsplash tile (subway) would need to be replaced, but it turned out not to be true. All the tile came through fine. The guy I went with had actually told me it wouldn't be a problem. Might depend on the experience of the person removing the countertop.
Related Discussions
Help! Can't find backsplash for St. Cecillia Light counter tops
Q
Comments (4)
First, take a deep breath. This problem comes up here a few times a month! Step back and look at how the over all color "reads"in your kitchen. The reason why Laurie's looks so good is that it not only blends with the St Cecilla but it also blends with the cream in her cabinets. What color are your cabinets? If your cabinets are white and the counters read more grey, I would try to find a white tile with a grey undertone. Or a very light grey. Can you post your kitchen? It is funny that you mentioned no backsplashes shown with your granite. When I was having difficulty finding a backsplash, I went back to see my inspiration kitchen pictures. (They were white kitchen) Not one had a backsplash! I was so involved in the style and the color of the cabinets, I did not think ahead about the vision of my backsplash. There are a few directions that you can go in, but if you post a picture it is easier for us to help you.
...See More
Stainless backsplash & wood counters? Pics anyone?
Q
Comments (2)
Thank you, it does look very nice with your cabinets and counters. I'm still pondering it for mine, for reference I've got white cabinets, stainless farm sink and appliances and walnut butcher block counters. My only worry is that the stainless backsplash will take away from the "warm and inviting" feeling I'm trying for. In the end I may just have to buy a pack of tiles and see how they look.
...See More
Anyone have a counter top material backsplash then subway on top?
Q
Comments (12)
It may be that the person installing the counters is worried about a good tight fit against all the walls where counters will run. If your walls are not flat and straight, the installers can cover a pretty good sized gap with that thick strip of countertop material laid a few inches up the wall ( the older style installations). But with good modern templating, you should expect a good fit even if your walls are a little bit off, then the tile can come right down to the counter and still meet with a small caulk joint at the change of plane. Perhaps you can ask them if they're worried about uneven walls, or you can take a yardstick to them yourself to see how they look. If it were my kitchen I'd certainly want the newer style installation.
...See More
Can a new counter top be installed w/o replacng tile backsplash?
Q
Comments (6)
The tiled backsplash usually sits just off the countertop by an 1/8th inch or so and the gap is caulked. The caulk can be cut away and the countertop should be able to be removed without damaging the backsplash. That's in a perfect world. Some installers set the bottom course of tile right on the countertop. Less clearance. Depending on how the countertop is attached to the cabinets below, that can affect things. The shape of the counter. A straight run or and "L" shaped? Are the ends open or captured? How the countertop is constructed? A slab of stone? Or a tiled-in mud bed? Sometimes the countertop needs to be sectioned out in pieces. In general, the backsplash can usually be preserved, but getting the countertop out might be ugly, especially if it's piece by piece. So..."it depends".
...See More
boxerpups
13 years ago
We replaced our tile counters with granite,
and kept our backsplash.

My husband has never done this before he was
super careful using a puuty wedge and small hammer.
He removed all the counter tiles without
hurting the backsplash. I am so proud of him.

I also think it might depend on the kind of tile.

Related Stories

LAUNDRY ROOMS The Cure for Houzz Envy: Laundry Room Touches Anyone Can Do

By Becky Harris

Make fluffing and folding more enjoyable by borrowing these ideas from beautifully designed laundry rooms

Full Story

121

KITCHEN DESIGN The Cure for Houzz Envy: Kitchen Touches Anyone Can Do

By Becky Harris

Take your kitchen up a notch even if it will never reach top-of-the-line, with these cheap and easy decorating ideas

Full Story

126

DISASTER PREP & RECOVERY Remodeling After Water Damage: Tips From a Homeowner Who Did It

By Judith Taylor Designs

Learn the crucial steps and coping mechanisms that can help when flooding strikes your home

Full Story

BATHROOM DESIGN Water Damage Spawns a Space-Saving Bathroom Remodel

By Mitchell Parker

A game of inches saved this small New York City bathroom from becoming too cramped and limited

Full Story

KITCHEN DESIGN New This Week: 4 Surprising Backsplash and Countertop Pairings

By Mitchell Parker

Make your kitchen workspace stand out with colored ceramic tile, back-painted glass, butcher block and more

Full Story

HOUSEKEEPING How to Clean Marble Countertops and Tile

By Bonnie McCarthy

Acidic solutions can damage your marble surfaces. Here’s how to keep marble looking clean and amazing

Full Story

190

By Jennifer Ott Design

Want maximum efficiency in your kitchen? Consider forgoing the old-fashioned triangle in favor of task-specific zones

Full Story

163

KITCHEN DESIGN Countertop and Backsplash: Making the Perfect Match

By Jennifer Ott Design

Zero in on a kitchen combo you'll love with these strategies and great countertop-backsplash mixes for inspiration

Full Story

267

KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS 10 Top Backsplashes to Pair With Soapstone Countertops

By Becky Harris

Simplify your decision-making process by checking out how these styles work with soapstone

Full Story

MATERIALS 10 Modern Marble Looks

By Shawn Gauthier

Marble has broken free of the standard kitchen countertop slab and is showing up on bathtub backsplashes, modern dining tables and more

Full Story

Anyone replace a countertop? How much damage to backsplash?

Comments (3)

Gena Hooper

ella_socal

Related Discussions

boxerpups

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US