How to Glue & Cut Laminate on Countertops
You make a laminate countertop by gluing a well-cut piece of laminate onto a substrate, such as particle board or a nicer wood. It takes precision and the right tools to get the job done right. Depending on how much countertop you wish to cover, this task will take at least an hour.
Things You'll Need
- Laminate
- Countertop
- Contact cement
- Measuring tape
- 220-grit sandpaper
- J-roller
- Particle board
- Router
Instructions
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1
Measure the perimeter of the counter space you wish to cover in laminate.
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2
If the countertop material won't make a good substrate for the laminate, glue two pieces of particle board together face to face, and then glue these layers to the countertop. Thoroughly sand and clean the countertop first for better adhesion.
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3
Brush the contact cement onto the upper surface of the countertop and the bottom surface of the laminate.
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4
Press the laminate onto the counter. Thoroughly work the J-roller over the surface of the laminate to ensure an even and level contact with the glue.
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5
Cut excess laminate, whatever hangs over the edge of the countertop, with the trim router.
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6
Use 220-grit sandpaper to clean any harsh edges left by the router.
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1
Tips & Warnings
When cutting the laminate trim with the router, place masking tape over the cut line to prevent shards of debris and help guide the cut.
Spread the contact cement evenly on all surfaces. An uneven application can create distortions in the laminate.
