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Deconstructing tile vanity top

BillHartmann | Posted in General Discussion on June 17, 2006 04:42am

I was asked about replacing a 1970’s era tiled vanity top.

It is tiled right up the basin and the basin is deeper than the counter top so that the front of the basin sticks out by about 2″.

The whole bathroom is “dated” but the client likes the look and color of the old tile. And does not want to change it, only the counter top.

But the basin is cracked.

I understand that it is done on a “concrete base”, but I don’t know the details.

Can anyone give the details.

What is the possibility of removing the top and leaving the base (wooden cabinet).

What kind of connections, if any between the top and the tiled wall?

I can get a custom cultured marble top to fit. Would probably have to build up the counter top to account for the difference in thickness. And also a wrap around to cover up the bump out where the old sink was.

Or replace both the counter top and vanity with stock, but it will have a backsplash which will look a little werid, but work.

My main concern is what affect removing the countertop will have on the wall tile.

Reply

Replies

  1. calvin | Jun 17, 2006 06:27am | #1

    Bill,  In this bath the counter was tile to plywood with drop in sink.  I cut the grout line between the top and wall tile  Was able to pry up the top enough to cut the nails that held it to the cab.  I then cut the grout line betwen the wall tile and cab.  (Both grout cuts with the Multimaster and diamond blade.)  I raised the cab and set it higher so the marbelite top would butt into the wall tile.  I was going to build up the cab, the owners wanted the short 32'' counter raised.  Raising it was easier.  I salvaged enough (couple tiles) to pc together the missing tile under the countertop at both ends of the cabinet.

    The cabinet was trapped on the left by the garden tub deck and on the right was tiled in.  Raising worked, pulling it out wouldn't happen w/o busting it up.

    I don't know if I have a finish pic.

    A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.

    Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.

    Quittin' Time

     

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