Recently I have installed a granite countertop and we want to keep the old backsplash tiles. The difference of space between the counter top and the last row of tiles is just about 3/8'' and there are involved some electric outlets witch I don't want to mess with. Is there any suggestion that I can use? Tell me, please if I choose to fill that gap with caulk, what kind I should pick? Thank you!

A. Barker

You might be able to find some really narrow border tile to use to fill the space and add a decorative element. You could just grout the space, regrouting the rest of the tile if necessary to get a match. If there is wood element in your kitchen, you could do a wooden strip that is matched to that wood finish; stainless steel stripping might also work if that is an element you already have. There are lots of decorative options but it depends on what could be the best match.

The simplest solution is to grout the space. Hopefully you can find the same grout as the backsplash. Why didn't the conntertop installer move the top to close the gap?

Hi all:

For a 3/8" gap I'd also recommend the caulking, but I would use a SANDED caulking so it doesn't fall out of the gap before it dries... ;)

Mark

There is a company called Schluter that makes all kinds of strips and transitions for tile installations. Check their website out and see if you like anything. You might have to rework what they have for method of installing because usually your problem would be solved before the countertop went in, but this is a common problem because the granite slabs are not easy to just install higher on the cabinet base. Personally I think 3/8" is a little to big for caulking. In a gap that big caulking will usually shrink and crack after a year and not look so hot.

I agree with you dimporphous... why I recommended the SANDED CAULK... less shrinkage and greater strength overall!

I agree that those kerdi-schluter transition strips are nice when installed properly. I just don't see how they could be reworked without cutting away the entire webbed frame and caulking them in, but still a very nice product, for sure!

Mark

Mark,
You can cut away the webbing pretty easy with a Fein tool or any other multi tool. They make a pretty cool metal blade. Takes two guys or a long table and vice, but I have used Schluter to fix a lot of other contractors mistakes. I use them in all corners both vertical and horizontal in showers because it eliminates any future problems. I use thin beads of clear butyl to attach since it is both heat and moisture proof.

Gabe