Can stone tiles be used for countertops and backsplashes?
Yes. Appropriate backer boards (Durock, Hardibacker etc) should be used and the same installation methods apply. Tiles can be set tighter than on the floor for minimal grout joints. It is imperative to seal the area completely after grouting to make cleaning easier. Stone tiles are a much less expensive, but equally beautiful option for countertops than their solid-slab counterparts. ($5/sq.ft. vs.