skip to main content

Bathroom backsplash before counter install?

11 months ago

Contractor wants to install the tile bathroom backsplash before the quartz counters to avoid the tile guy having to come twice. Once for the shower, and maybe second time would be after counter install for backsplash. The backsplash will wrap all around the walls at about 44”. It will not run behind the vanity. He says its not a big deal and that way and they can just butt it up and caulk. My tile is handmade and uneven. Wont this make the seem not as tidy and also make the quartz guys job harder?

Featured Answer

millworkman

11 months ago

" Wont this make the seem not as tidy and also make the quartz guys job harder? "

Absolutely yes on both questions. Don't let him do it.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

K A
Original Author
11 months ago
last modified: 11 months ago
Okay. Is it unusual for a tile guy to need to come at two stages of a project? I feel like im always kind of in a dilemma of not wanting to be a demanding homeowner but also wanting things done correctly.
Related Discussions
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
Backsplash before granite counter installation?
Q
Comments (4)
Nope, and don't let him talk you into tiling from the top down and leaving the last couple rows of tiles until after the counters are installed. Your last row of tiles is under the cabinet so that where you like to put your cut tiles if everything lays out well that way. Ideally, your first tile that is next to your granite is whole and you work your way up (with whole tiles) until the cut tile under the cabinet. Tiling down won't look as nice. And if he tiles up, leaving enough room to slip your granite in, he is going to leave too big a gap between the first row and the granite.
...See More
How long for backsplash after installing counters?
Q
Comments (5)
I think it's actually better to install it quickly. My quartz was installed, but the guys didn't caulk along the edges as I was going to have a backsplash installed. So the quicker the tile goes in, the less water leakage you'd get. Probably even easier if your faucet isn't installed yet either (don't have to work around it or risk getting it mucked up by grout, etc.). I don't think you can install the faucet until 24 hours after an undermount sink is set if that's what you're goint with.
...See More
Needing help choosing coordinating floors, counter top and backsplash
Q
Comments (12)
thank you, what did you mean by "I would not take up the charge of the sink"? Do you mean you wouldn't bother replacing? Regarding the flooring....the rest of the house has the old school 3/4" oak flooring so if I change the flooring to hardwood in the kitchen and entryway, I would have to change out all the hardwood in the living room and kitchen. This was my thought process anyway. I did check out the cost and for the flooring I like, it would be a lot of $. To answer your question, the sq footage of the combined entry way and kitchen which is currently tiled, is about 170 sq ft. what did you mean about backsplash? I was thinking black granite counter top and then a simple backsplash and yes I def want a coordinated look. warm, inviting and not choppy and misfitting. thanks again
...See More
millworkman
11 months ago
No, most times they do not do the prep work, lay the tile and grout all in one trip.
chispa
11 months ago
Not unusual at all to come back. I didn't pick my kitchen backsplash until 5 months after we moved into our new build. Our builder sent the tile guy back as soon as the tile was delivered.
K A thanked chispa
K A
Original Author
11 months ago
I mean come back several times for one project. I think my bathroom would be three days. Day one, lay floor tile and shower surround. Then cabinet guys install vanity then counter guys do quartz and shower curbs. Tile guy day 2, come back grout shower surround and floors. Put up backsplash and tub surround. Day 3 grout backsplash.
K A
Original Author
11 months ago
Oh and i think there is also a water tight test in there.

Related Stories

KITCHEN BACKSPLASHES How to Install a Tile Backsplash

If you've got a steady hand, a few easy-to-find supplies and patience, you can install a tile backsplash in a kitchen or bathroom

GREAT HOME PROJECTS How to Install a New Tile Floor

By Erin Carlyle

Is it time to replace your tile floor? Here’s how to get it done, which pros to call and what it will cost

DOORS 5 Questions to Ask Before Installing a Barn Door

By Apartment 46 for the Home

Find out whether that barn door you love is the right solution for your space

ORGANIZING How to Pare Down and Pack Up Before Installing New Flooring

By Tailorly, Professional Home Organizing

The installation of new floors might be a great opportunity to winnow and organize your belongings

REMODELING GUIDES Contractor Tips: How to Install Tile

By Buckminster Green LLC

Before you pick up a single tile, pull from these tips for expert results

BATHROOM DESIGN Should You Install a Urinal at Home?

By MyFixitUpLife show

Wall-mounted pit stops are handy in more than just man caves — and they can look better than you might think

PETS How to Install a Dog-Washing Station

Find out the options for pet showers and bathing tubs — plus whom to hire and what it might cost

BATHROOM DESIGN Before and After: 4 Bathrooms With Dashing Double Vanities

By Bryan Anthony

New double vanities add counter space, storage and style to these remodeled bathrooms

BATHROOM DESIGN How to Match Tile Heights for a Perfect Installation

By By Any Design Ltd.

Irregular tile heights can mar the look of your bathroom. Here's how to counter the differences

BATHTUBS Before and After: 6 Dream Bathrooms That Free the Tub

Freestanding tubs replace bulky built-ins in these beautiful bathroom remodels

Sponsored

More Discussions

Any photos of Daltile Valor Gold Quartz

4

black faucets in bathroom

2

Renovation tub already taking a beating

2

Why would anyone use tile and grout in a shower??

13

AXOR Brushed bronze support bar

1