How to Apply Laminate to Wood

Laminate is a synthetic plastic material used for counters, cabinets and other facing projects. Laminate is widely used because it is an inexpensive material that is easily cleaned and maintained. The surface is water-resistant and scratch-resistant, further making laminate attractive because of its durability. Installing laminate sheets onto wood is an easy process that requires basic carpentry skills. Most laminate projects such as finishing a countertop or bookshelf can be completed within a few hours.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Sandpaper
• Water
• Laminate sheets
• Utility knife
• Steel square
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Contact cement
• Paintbrush
• Putty knife
• Roller

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Instructions

1. Sand the surface of the wood to create a scuffed texture. This texture makes a better contact surface for the cement adhesive. Wipe the surface clean with a damp towel.

2. Measure the required length and width of your laminate sheets by measuring the surface you need to cover. It is best to allow an extra 1/8 inch in length and width that you can trim down later. This prevents inadvertently making the laminate sheet too small. Mark the lines on your laminate sheet.

3. Score the laminate sheets with a utility knife, positioning a steel square along the line to make sure it is straight. Scoring is creating a line with the knife into the laminate that doesn't penetrate all the way through, similar to a perforation on a piece of paper.

4. Snap the laminate along the scored line by lifting up the shorter side of the laminate sheet.

5. Apply contact cement to the wood surfaces. Use a paintbrush or putty knife to create a thin layer of the cement adhesive to the wood. Note that edging strips may require painting three layers of cement to create a strong enough bond.

6. Place the cut laminate on the wood. Press firmly from left to right to position it properly. Use the roller to apply consistent pressure across the laminate surface to make sure the underneath is creating an equal bond with the adhesive along the entire length of the surface.

7. Wipe up any excess contact cement with a damp towel. Allow the laminate to dry overnight.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use safety goggles when scoring and cutting laminate. Laminate is prone to pieces snapping off that can possibly injure an eye.

References

• Al's Net Biz: Formica