I'm not sure exactly what you want to do-- are you going to wrap around EACH stud, or around the perimeter of the countertop? I know that sounds like a really stupid question, but your post isn't clear, and if I've learned ANYTHING in here, I don't take anything for granted!! If you're talking about wrapping the perimeter, then yes, you need a strip of HALF inch backerboard, not 1/4". Unless it's fully backed, the 1/4" is too flimsy. Secondly, under NO circumstances should construction adhesive be used to mount pieces of granite, or any other kind of tile, but especially stone of any kind, because the oils from the adhesive will bleed thru the stone and show as shadows on the front of the stone.

'zactly.

Half-inch cement backer board over the steel studs, then thinset the stone to the cement backer.

Mongo

Thanks. I knew someone here would have a good explanation. Yes, I want to run a border around the entire counter top. I did a test last night (on scraps) to see if the construction adhesive would hold, and this morning was pleased to see that it did great. Didn't know about the oils though, and that makes it a deal breaker. As an amateur, I was doubtful of the holding power of something I have not used (thinset) before, but one thing I have learned is to go with the advice of the pros on the boards here. Thanks again.

Actually, even the holding power isn't all that great, either. Initially, it's not bad. But construction adhesive gets brittle over time, especially around any kind of heat source, so it wouldn't be too long before tiles were popping off.

Bill, mongo, what do you think of a product like this?

Here is a link that might be useful: liquid nails marble and granite

About the same as I'd think about using mastic instead. Need I elaborate any more? :-)

You're still going to get bleed thru.

I get your drift, bill :) I've never had need for it, but I've seen it in the stores and wondered if it would be an acceptable shortcut, since the products claim no bleed-through. Guess that's hype. Another potential shortcut bites the dust...just like that "Easyboard" that I can hold between my thumb and forefinger--I was all excited about that until I read folks' experiences with it on John Bridge. Darn!