QUESTION

What kind of adhesive can we use to attach tile to a cabinet doors? Is there a high performance adhesive to attach 18"x13" ceramic tile to mdf/maple cabinet doors? The doors are inset with ceramic tiled wall so when complete all tile will be flush with about 1/4"+ space for adhesive.

ANSWER

ANSWER - There are modified epoxy adhesives and epoxy adhesives that will bond to most woods.   Of course you need to first sand off any coatings on the wood surface before bonding.   There is a product called Latapoxy 210 and Latapoxy 300 made by Laticrete international that you might be able to buy at Lowes.   You could paint the sanded wood with a tile liquid applied waterproof membrane and then bond to it with the normal polymer modified thin-set mortar that meets ANSI A118.15.

Whatever you do, test it out first to make sure it is performing to your satisfaction.  Keep in mind that if you bond a ¼” thick tile that you are adding about 4 lbs per sq. foot of weight to the doors so the hinges need to be able to manage that extra weight.