Underlayment

• 1
  Granite tiles offer a less expensive and more do-it-yourself countertop option.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Begin installation of underlayment after the old countertop is removed, or new cabinet frames are completed. Either way, ensure the frames are square, both front to back and side to side.
  
  
• 2
  Remember to include the amount of overhang before cutting the plywood substrate.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Measure and cut 3/4-inch plywood, remembering to include the amount of overhang desired when measuring. Drill holes and screw the plywood into the cabinet frames.
  
  
• 3). Measure and cut 1/2-inch cement backerboard to cover the plywood. The best option when cutting cement board is to treat it like drywall. Score it first, and break it to size. Screw the cement board to the plywood, ensure you countersink the screws. Cut strips of cement board and screw them into the edges of the plywood substrate, flush with the top of the cement board.
  
  
• 4
  Remember to use the manufacturer's sink template when cutting the sink hole.Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Cut all holes for sinks and stovetops using the jigsaw. When installing the sink, use the template provided by the manufacturer and center between cabinet frames. When prepping for stovetops, ensure you know whether they are freestanding or drop-in. The freestanding options won't need any plywood substrate, while you will have to cut out a hole for the drop-in variety.
  
  

Laying the Tile

• 1
  Polish the granite tiles using stone polisher available at most tool rental centers.Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  Polish all edges of exposed granite tile before installation. Polish with a stone polisher, starting with the roughest grit. Finish the tile with a high grit.
  
  
• 2). Trowel on thin-set adhesive to the cement board using the notched trowel at about a 45-degree angle. This process should leave alternating thick lines and nearly empty ones. Starting on the outer edge, lay the first row of tiles. Overhang the tiles about 1/4-inch so they will match up with the edge tiles correctly. While laying the row, ensure the tiles are as close together as possible. Continually use a level to ensure the tiles are flat.
  
  
• 3). After the full tiles are completely laid, measure pieces going into the wall and cut using a tile saw. For edge pieces, use the same technique. After you are happy with the edge's appearance, tape into place to avoid slippage. Decide the height you want the backsplash to be, cut with a tile saw and put in place.
  
  
• 4). Use the grout float to apply unsanded grout to the granite tiles. Have a sponge handy to wipe up all excess grout immediately. After the grout is dried, apply a sealer to protect the grout from staining.