Tile Countertops

Tile Countertops are another alternative – and one that has an almost infinite variety of looks.  Everything from a granite tile countertop to mosaic tiles or even hand painted ceramics are possible. Tile can be natural stone or man-made from ceramics, porcelain, metal or even glass and come come in any color you want.  You also have a wide choice of sizes from small half-inch squares to large 24" (or even larger) inch squares  Literally, the options are wide open.

The downside to tile as a kitchen countertop is it's size.  Since it's smaller than the surface it will be applied to, joints will be created and need to be filled with grout.  Most grouts are not designed for the wear required in a kitchen countertop surface.  They also can be susceptible to staining.

Our advice is gererally to avoid tile on kitchen countertops.  If you have a particular tile that you’ve already fallen in love with, and it isn’t one that will withstand the wear of a kitchen surface, we’ll likely advise you to use it as part of the kitchen backsplash and choose a complementary counter surface.

Bathroom countertops don't need to withstand the same heavy use and tile can be a perfect choice.  Since bathrooms often have large areas of tile on the walls and even for shower and tub surfaces, it's a great way to tie the decor of the room together.