Ceramic tile over formica backsplash?
For Professional tilesetters.
Here is my problem: a customer wants to install ceramic tile in the kitchen backsplash but the backsplash is formica. I took a close look at it and it’s behind the kitchen cabinets. I was wondering if I could use a unmodified thin-set and apply Schluter-KERDI over the existing formica?
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Replies
I wouldn't do it. Worst case, loosen bottoms of uppers and pull laminate out. Most I've run into are pretty easy to remove. You'd be counting on the bond of laminate to wall, that'd be the weak link, IMHO. Don't know what purpose the Kerdi would serve.
PJ
Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end.
Have you got enough room to add 1/4" hardibacker? If you do, glue it to the existing backsplash and screw it to the studs. Then, tile over that. Plan ahead if there's going to be any exposed edges.
I'd think you could scuff it and use tile mastic. It's not a wet area, so no need for the whole nine yards of a shower surround.
just cut it out. I wouldn't feel at all comfortable tiling over it.