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Before You Start
Step 1: Attach the Flat Bar
Step 2: Cut the Tiles to Fit
Step 3: Apply the Adhesive
Step 4: Lay the Tile Sheets
Step 5: Apply the Grout
Written by Darryl Chapman
Cut the fiber cement sheet to fit using a circular saw with a diamond blade, measuring the distance from the blade to the edge of the baseplate and clamping a straightedge this far from the cutting line. Cut the 1/8-in. x 2-in. x 108-in. aluminum flat bar by hand using a hacksaw.
Then, secure the fiber cement sheet to the countertop using construction adhesive. Drill 5/32-in. clearance holes 16-in. apart along the edging, securing to the counter with adhesive and #8 x 5/8-in. stainless steel screws.
Test the tile sheets, marking cuts at the wall, using a straightedge to mark the cutting line. Clamp the sheets between an offcut of 1/2-in. plywood and a straightedge then use a 100mm angle grinder with a continuous diamond cutting wheel to cut the tiles.
Use a drill with a stirrer attachment to mix the tile adhesive; then, use a 1/4-in. notched trowel to spread it on the cement sheet.
To lay the tile sheets, place the cut edges against the walls and work towards the edge using a rolling motion. Adjust the tiles for spacing, leave to dry for 24 hours; then, apply silicone to seal the gap between the wall and tiles.
Use a drill with a stirrer attachment to mix the grout to a creamy consistency and use a sponge squeegee to work it in, moving diagonally across the joints. Clean off the residue using a solution of warm water and white vinegar.