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Step 1
First you will need to take a trip to the store to gather the supplies. Among these items are glue sealant, caulking, dog bones (to put together miter cuts), and of course the laminate countertops. Measure your countertops before you begin your search for new countertops. Make note of how many miter cuts you have on your countertops. Miter cuts are the angle cuts made in each corner of your countertops. Most home improvement stores sell laminate countertops with pre-cut miter ends.
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Step 2
Now it is time to remove the old countertops. You will need a hammer and a flat head screwdriver. Begin hitting the under side of the countertop lightly to break loose the countertop. Check and make sure there are no screws holding the countertop to the cabinets by crawling underneath the cabinets. Continue to hammer the edges of the countertops from underneath until it breaks loose.
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Step 3
You will have to remove the sink before you can continue to remove the countertops. Shut off the water supply lines to the sink and remove the hose lines going to the faucet. Remove the screws securing the faucet to the sink. From underneath the sink, remove the clips that may be holding the sink to the countertop. Remove the sink by pushing it through the bottom and outside of the countertop. Remove the old countertops. This may require a partner.
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Step 4
Once all the old countertops are removed you can now begin to remove the old glue residue that was under the old countertops. Use a simple paint scraper to complete this task.
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Step 5
The next step is to cut the new countertops to fit the new space. You should only have to cut a straight line if you have purchased the pre-miter pieces. Remember to measure twice and cut once. Place masking tape on the laminate side of the countertop along the cut line. Use a jig saw to cut along the line in which you have measured.
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Step 6
Trace the old sink holes on the new countertops and drill a hole in the center. Use a jigsaw and cut along the lines. This should make way for your sink.
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Step 7
After you have cut the new pieces, dry fit the countertops. Once you know they will fit, lay down a layer of glue on top of the cabinet in which the countertop will lay. Use a hammer and a small piece of 2x4 wrapped in a towel to hammer down the countertop.
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Step 8
Install the dog bone bolts on the miter ends to secure them. Install the sink and the faucet just as it was removed. Wipe down the new counter tops to remove any saw dust. To place ends on the countertops you will need to purchase and endcap kit and simply iron on the laminate to the unfinished ends.
