Backerboard always required?

I'm going to install ceramic tile above the kitchen sink for 14 inches as a splash protection. Must I use backerboard or is it OK to lay the tile on drywall?

Ken, I'm doing the exact same job today. Since the backsplash is not subject to tremendous amounts of moisture, as in a shower, it will do fine to put directly over drywall. Keep in mind, though, thatwhen it's time to replace it, you will be putting in new drywall. With backerboard there's a possibility you'll ba able to remove the tiles, unscrew the backerboard, replace it with new and retile. The other possibility is, of course, it may not work that smoothly and you'll end up taking it down to the studs anyway. In my case, my previous tile had been up for 20 years mastic directly to the drywall and it was perfect. So, I am setting the tile directly on the drywall again. Hope this helps.
-Jefferey Fry ex-tile-setter-helper-in-the-early-70's
Currently general partner of MJD, a diversified construction company. Cali

What did we all do prior to wonderboard? We tiled on drywall and if we wanted to get fancy we did it on blueboard. The tiles in my shower are 35 years old they were done on plan sheetrock. The key is keeping the grout in good shape. If you have 5 kids and take dozens of showers a day then what the heck go for the wonderboard.

I am going to install tile on my back splash. The existing backsplash is Formica on 5/16 inch paneling. I was debating on taking the paneling back to the studs and starting with drywall or backer board. Or putting 1/4 inch backer board over the existing wall and attaching the tile to the backer board. What would anyone suggest?

You guys are wrong, I`m I tile setter for 19 years, if your tile jobs your doing wants to look beautiful;you most do it the right way. Do not use backer-board on the walls that will complicate the work it self. I have tips to make your projects look and last forever. Reply to my e-mail with your contact #.I`ll be more than happy to help you. Rene @ renejrreyes@yahoo.com

And, it took you almost 7 years to answer that. LMAO.

GOOD JOB Rene!

We like to keep advice here on the forums so that others may also benefit. It would be better if you did the same and didn't try to privatize issues in the future.

"You guys are wrong,"

What's up with that?