How to Replace a Laminate Bathroom Countertop

Laminate bathroom countertops are difficult to damage, but may become outdated due to an undesirable color or style. However, laminate countertops are inexpensive and straightforward to replace, making this a reasonable project for many homeowners. When choosing a countertop, be sure to pick one that has a cutout that will fit your desired sink. If your existing sink is independent of the laminate countertop, the sink can easily be reused in this project.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Adjustable pliers
• Utility knife
• Pry bar
• Silicone caulk
• 1/2-inch dowel rods
• Laminate countertop

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the bathroom sink. Place a bucket underneath the sink and inside the vanity to catch any water in the pipes. Detach the P trap underneath the sink using adjustable pliers to turn the connection counterclockwise. Use the same technique to detach the nuts that secure each water supply line to the local shut off valves.

2. Score the place where the existing laminate countertop meets the wall using a utility knife to cut through any paint or caulk. Pry the countertop away from the wall using a pry bar and discard the old countertop.

3. Apply a thick bead of silicone caulk to the top edge of the vanity. Place several 1/2-inch dowels across the edge of the vanity, running front to back so they span the width of the cabinet. Plan on spacing the dowels about 18 inches apart. Although dowels are not necessary, they will help you avoid smearing the caulk.

4. Slide the new laminate countertop into place; the dowels should suspend the countertop above the caulk. Remove the dowels once the countertop is at its desired location and allow the countertop to come into contact with the caulk.

5. Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the edge of the countertop that meets the wall. Smooth the caulk with your finger to remove any imperfections in your application technique.

6. Detach the sink from the old laminate countertop by pushing it through the hole in the counter. Peel away any old caulk from the underside of the sink. Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the edge of the sink cutout in the laminate countertop. Slide the sink into the hole in the new countertop.

7. Reconnect the water supply by attaching the supply lines to the local shut off valves using adjustable pliers to secure the nut attached to the supply line. Connect the P trap using the adjustable pliers to tighten the connection between the sections of pipe. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• If your old laminate countertop had a higher back splash than the new model, plan on patching and painting the wall prior to installing the new countertop. This step can easily add an extra day's work to the project, so be sure to allow for the extra time.

• If the pipes leak after you reinstall the sink, try placing some plumber's tape over the threads of the pipe. Then screw the pipes firmly into place.

References

• Ron Hazelton: How to Replace a Bathroom Sink