Abstract: A self-leveling underlayment for a tile countertop is disclosed. Roofing felt covers the deck, and a flashing strip is fitted along the seam where the deck meets walls. Metal lath is laid over the felt, and rebar is laid along edges of the deck. Backsplash tile is supported by lengths of backer board along walls adjacent the deck. A self-leveling, water-based, cementitious underlayment mix, once set-up, supports the tile.

Abstract: A self-leveling underlayment for a tile countertop, and a method and kit for forming same, is disclosed. In practicing the method on the top deck of a cabinet, a protective paper sling is hung in an interior deck opening and a protective shroud is hung over front cabinet faces. The deck is covered with roofing felt and a flashing strip is fitted along the seam where the deck meets walls, masking tape being used to bind these together. A styrofoam punch-out is fixed in place over the sink opening. Metal lath is laid over the felt, and rebar is laid along edges of the deck. Lengths of backer board are placed along walls adjacent the deck to support backsplash tile, and a dam is affixed along the deck's front edge, thus defining a mold for an underlayment. A self-leveling, water-based, cementitious underlayment mix is poured into the mold to form a surface, once set-up, for supporting tile.