Grout and Mortar for Tiles

• You can use grout or mortar to install granite countertop tiles. This is slightly different from the solid granite counter tops you might be considering. The best type of mortar and grout is a quick setting, thinset mortar spread over the top of the countertop. The granite tiles are then set on top of this. The other material you will need is tile grout, which is applied in the joints of the countertop tiles. Many people choose the unsanded variety because it does not need sanding. This can cause scratching on the granite. For darker tiles, a good strategy is to use darker thinset mortar and dark gray grout. You can use the white mortar and grout for white tiles, unless you want to add contrast. Then use dark grout and mortar on lighter tiles and vice versa.
  
  

Solid Counter Top Materials

• For solid granite countertops you have many options for installation. With most installations you will use blocking or 1x4 slats of particle board, which is installed flush with the top of the cabinets. This is to help support the weight of the granite. Another material you can use is melamine, which is similar. The slats, or supports as some call them, can be secured to the cabinets with wood screws and a power driver. You can also use adhesive to secure the boards in place to add strength. For additional support, a layer of plywood can also be secured to the top of the cabinets with wood screws.
  
  

Cutting Template Materials

• Another option is to install templates on the countertops. These are built from slats of wood and simply laid over the countertop and then glued together with adhesive or tacks. The templates are used to cut the stone counter tops, and they create a lifesize copy of the cabinets that can be taken to the cutting shop.
  
  

Materials to Attach the Countertop

• To seal together adjoining countertop pieces (as in a corner section of "L" shaped cabinets) and to secure the counter tops to the cabinets, an epoxy is the main material used. This epoxy can be purchased at your stone or masonry store. Ask them to recommend one because there are some variations in the types you can use. There may be a better epoxy for your climate and type of granite.