How to Install Prefab Laminate Counter Tops

Prefabricated laminate counter tops make it easier for the homeowner to install their own. There are a few precautions to take when tackling the project to protect the laminate as it is being prepared for installation. Laminates are not as durable as other counter-top materials like stone or tile and therefore require more attention. Be sure that you have a good understanding of the installation process before beginning.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Saw horses
• Soft cloth
• Adhesive caulk
• Wrench for I-bolts
• Framing square
• Skill saw
• Jigsaw
• Variable speed drill
• Phillips head screw tip
• 1½-inch drywall screws

1. Set up the saw horses so they will support the prefab laminate counter top. Space them out according to the layout of the cabinets. For example, if it is one straight top, make sure the space where the sink hole will be cut doesn't have a saw horse under it. If the cabinets are L-shaped or U-shaped, remember that you will be working with the tops upside down, which will reverse the corners.

2. Be certain the tops of the saw horses are covered with cloth or something to protect the laminate of the counter tops. Set the counter tops upside down on the saw horses. If the counter tops have a 45-degree joint, be certain the top under this area is well supported and go to Step 3. If not, skip to Step 4.

3. Apply adhesive caulk on the ends of the pieces to be joined and align the cutouts for I-bolts. Set the I-bolts in place and tighten them so the adhesive caulk makes a solid bond. Clean up excess with a damp cloth. For more on this and installing end caps if needed, see "Kitchen Remodeling--Installing Pre-Formed Kitchen Counter Tops" in the Reference section of this article.

4. Measure from the end or corner of the cabinets to the center of the location of the sink and make a mark on the wall. Measure from the correct end or corner of the counter top and mark the center of the sink on the bottom of the counter top.

5. Place the sink template on the center mark and trace its outline onto the counter top. If no template is provided, measure the overall length and depth and allow for the bowl and faucets to clear the counter top, then draw the cutout shape on the top.

6. Set the depth of the skill saw to its deepest setting. Hold the front of the plate of the skill saw against the counter top. Align the blade with the lines drawn and lower the saw through the counter top. Cut up to the turns in the corners of the sink cutout. Cut the corners with the jigsaw.

7. Place the counter top on the cabinets. Adjust it as needed. Secure it to the cabinets through the corner blocks in the cabinets underneath the top.

Tips & Warnings

• Minor adjustments can be made to mitered joints if the top is installed shortly after putting it together. File any sharp edges that might be created when cutting the sink hole. Seal the edges around the sink with waterproof caulking.
• Do not leave power tools unattended in the presence of children. Do not use screws longer than 1½ inches to prevent piercing the top of the counter top.

References

• Sink Cutout
• Assemble Miter
• Kitchen Remodeling--Installing Pre-Formed Kitchen Counter Tops

Resources

• Installing a Prefab Counter Top