Slate Backsplash

Hello!

I've been reading the posts in this forum and have gathered quite a bit of information (albeit some was conflicting) and want to make sure I'm clear. So, I'll list my situation and then my questions in the hope that someone knowledgeable will assist.

We currently have laminate backsplashes (glued directly to the drywall) in the kitchen. I want to cover the backsplash with 6x6 slate tiles.

1. Can we tile over the laminate backsplashes? Based on info found in the forum, it appears that you can but you need to clean and scuff it first. Please confirm.

2. 1/8" gap is a good gap for 6x6 tiles. The gap should be filled wtih unsanded grout (not pre-mixed). Correct? Any recommendation on grout name brands?

3. I should use mastic as my adhesive. Thinset is not necessary?

4. Should I seal the slate tiles before putting the grout in or should it be done afterward? A really good sealer to use is the Aqua Mix Gold?

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

Pull the laminate. Normally, they are just glued with a few beads of adhesive and as the walls change seasonally, so will the laminate, especially where it is between beads of adhesive and then your grout will crack. If the drywall becomes too damaged when removing it, just replace the drywall. Then use thinset with your stone. Mastics can bleed oil into stone, but had it been a ceramic, then mastic would have been fine to use.

 

Thanks for your reply. Actually, the entire laminate board is glued directly to the sheetrock and goes up behind the cabinets. Is there anything at all we can do to keep the grout from cracking if we leave the laminate there?

 

A dremel or roto zip would make short work of cutting through the laminate, as would a laminate knife, several scores and either you will break through it or it will break away when you pull it away from the wall. As for spacing, which I failed to answer before. those tile might vary in size too much to get away with just 1/8". Sealers Choice is a great product though.

 

Thanks for your help!