Flooring Tile - tile countertop over laminate

I plan to tile over an existing laminate countertop. Can I apply the thinset directly to the laminate or do I need to do a backerboard? Also, I don't plan to remove the sink- is it OK to just cut tile around the sink and then just grout between the sink and cut tiles? I am a novice home improver with little tiling experience.

Hi
You know, I've never tried putting tile directly over laminate...I'm sure the TILE POLICE would not be amused. 1/4 inch backerboard would be a good idea..glued down with thin set and nailed or screwed down. One thing for sure...the sink should come out before you tile the counter. It's almost impossibe to get a nice clean cut edge around the sink. Tile up to the sink opening...the flange on the sink will hide all the cut tile on the edge.;)

I installed tile on top of my counters 4 years ago. Those puppies haven't gone any where. I did add an additive to the tin set

I tiled the countertops in my old place directly over arborite (sp?) and it was still down really well after 7 years when I sold the place. I just scuffed it up really well with some 50 grit sandpaper.

Ditto. Did one quite a few years ago where we used to live. As long as the laminate is solid scuff it up with some sandpaper and tile away. Concur on pulling sink first