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missjan

Installing new backsplash over existing - where granite meets old???

11 years ago

Wanting to replace the plain tile backsplash in my kitchen; however, when we had granite countertops installed several years ago, they placed a 3-4" border/trim that was placed on top of the tiles that meet the countertop. Now wanting to put in new backsplash but wondering about how to do. Note that the granite trim was attached over the bottom row of existing tile -- which means there would be a gap if the old tile is removed from where the new backsplash would join the granite. Suggestions, please? See attached photo

Comments (19)

  • 11 years ago
    Can the last row of tiles be cut where caulk line is and then abut the new backsplash right on top of the granite?
  • PRO
    11 years ago

    I take it you want to leave the 3" granite in place (the granite running up the wall) while removing the tiled backsplash? Do you know for sure that the granite was applied OVER TOP of the white tiles? Is there a cross-section that shows you the tile exists UNDERNEATH the granite trim?

    Cutting tiles that are on the wall could be a bit hairy. A tile setter should be able to help with this. Most likely you will need to remove both the granite and the tiles, and then reinstall the granite.


    missjan thanked Cancork Floor Inc.
  • PRO
    11 years ago
    First remove backsplash then tile I use thin hand saw to cut away silicone or utility knife
    missjan thanked Rob's renovations
  • PRO
    11 years ago
    Just hope there is not tile behind counter
  • 11 years ago

    Thank you! Yes, I was home when the granite was installed so know it was placed over the existing tiles. I'm worried the granite would break if we tried to remove it. Here's a photo, from Lowe's website,

    of the backsplash I'm thinking about putting in although it is a bit more complicated that just straight-edged tiles.

  • 11 years ago
    last modified: 11 years ago

    Unfortunately, they placed the granite trim overtop the existing tile, so there would be a gap if we removed the granite trim. So the countertop would not meet the backsplash, if the granite trim was removed.

  • 11 years ago

    What type of edge trim can be used with this backsplash? My installer only has a very plain rounded stone trim. How will that look since the tile and my granite countertop has a shiny/glossy finish?



  • 11 years ago
    Just rip out the old tile and the granite backsplash. There should be no concern about a gap between the granite surface and the wall tile because even if it does not reach you can build out the wall thickness with a backer board first which eliminates the gap.
    missjan thanked Kivi
  • 11 years ago

    My granite guy suggested not using a 3" backsplash as it would look like an after thought. He said it would look nicer to print tile back down to counter. Any thoughts about that anyone?


  • 11 years ago
    Yes bagirl, that is way to go.
  • 11 years ago

    Personally we like the 3" backsplash and think ours turned out beautifully with the new tile above it! Guess it depends on personal taste...and how much $$ you want to pay out.


  • 11 years ago

    Could you post a picture? I'm curious as I have the same concern. Thank you.

  • 11 years ago


  • PRO
    11 years ago
    last modified: 11 years ago

    Hello missjan. I hope I'm not to late to this conversation. Here's a really really easy way to re-do your backsplash. #1 - Buy or look for a product called Prim Grip from Mapei, cost in Austin Tx around $40.00 per gallon and one is enough. #2- Remove the 3-4" granite from the backsplash. # 3- protect your countertops, cabinets and walls with painters plastic. #4-Apply Prim Grip to your existing tile with an inexpensive paint brush and or small paint roller, let dry for a good hour or so depending on your weather conditions just follow instructions on Prim Grip. # 5 Install tile. This would definitely save you $$$$

  • 11 years ago

    The photo above is the finished look leaving the 3" granite trim, which we are totally happy with. Contractor wouldn't consider removing the backsplash and insisted on installing over existing. We think it turned out great! Thanks for your response; this was originally posted a couple months ago so is over and done now.

  • 11 years ago
    last modified: 11 years ago

    It turned out very nice. The new backsplash was an excellent choice. CheerS!

  • 11 years ago

    Did I understand you to say, your installed put the new tile over your old tile?

  • PRO
    10 years ago

    Yes, J J's comment is the direction I would head if you are ok with keeping the granite splash and installing new tile over the old tile. The product he is talking about is a primer that can be painted on a surface, even glossy tile. Several tile product company's make a similar product. You will be more likely to find it at Dal Tile or American Olean rather than Home Depot. It will allow the new adhesive to bond.

    The only drawback to doing this would be thickness issues against existing moldings like if the existing tile butts in to a window for instance. Or if you currently have a bullnose tile on where the installation terminates in the open and not against molding or cabinet. You will see the extra thickness here. You could possible use a piece of trim here or tile out slightly past it and grout the edge flush with the new tile.

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