Tiling Over Laminate

Can I tile over laminate?

The manufacturers’ of tile cement (thinset) have developed a specialty thinset for setting tile that bonds well to resin-based laminates (often called plastic laminates). However, as with all tile installations, the entire substrate below the tile is important – not only the layer to which the tile is bonded.

To safely tile over laminates, the following generally should be true:

• The laminate must be clean and free of wax or other bond breakers.
• The laminate must be well attached.
• The substrate below the laminate must meet the L/360 specification.
• For counters, the substrate should be more substantial than just 3/4″ plywood with a layer of laminate. Rather it must meet normal tile installation specs before you should consider applying tile directly to the laminate.
• Mechanical abrasion of the laminate may be necessary to insure a good bond.

For more information regarding suitable countertop construction (for use under tile), please refer to the TCNA Handbook, details C511, C512, and C513.