COUNTER TOPS

The Captain uses a mortar bed procedure in all his counter top installations, unless the tile directly prohibits it (cap size is the consideration). If the tile needs to be set to a bed thickness of less than ½ inch, then a hardibacker board is used, but it has to be known that this procedure allows for no leveling. Whatever level that is achieved by the cabinet installation determines the deck level and can seriously hamper the installation of a back splash which in turn hampers fixtures such as mirrors, and may affect fixtures in the deck such as sinks and plumbing. 

Geometric considerations in the installation, such as patterns, colors or borders, should always be considered before the deck height is established or the mortar bed on the backsplash is installed because many times the thickness differences in the tiles or marbles have to be allowed for in the depth of the mortar. 

The Captain believes the best method of installation on counters is a complete mortar installation, for many reasons, but primarily because most tile manufactures have a radius trim and counter trim available. If these trims are not available with the tile of your selection be ready to do some extensive shopping and coordinating with your distributor.