How to Make a Laminate Countertop
A laminate surface is one of the best coverings for a countertop because it combines durability and ease of maintenance with a wide variety of styles and colors. It's also relatively easy to install, especially if you follow a few guidelines. Laminate adheres to the existing countertop surface with contact cement, which feels dry to the touch but will bond instantly with other surfaces that have contact cement. Laminate over wood, old laminate, and just about any other surface that's solid and unbroken. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Palm sander
- 80-grit sandpaper
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pencil
- Jigsaw
- New laminate, in sheets
- Contact cement with brush
- Power router
- Laminate router bit
- Laminate roller
- 10 3-foot dowel rods, 1 inch thick
Instructions
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1
Buff out and flatten the existing surface, using a palm sander. The surface should be dull and free of any grime or shine. Wipe off the dust.
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2
Measure each section of the countertop (top and edges). Transfer the measurements to new laminate sheets, marking them out with a pencil and level. Add 1 inch to the measurements on all sides. Use a jigsaw to cut them out.
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3
Brush contact cement over the backs of the cut laminate, and over the surface of the countertop. Cover all surfaces completely with a thin, even layer of the contact cement. Let it dry to the touch for 15 to 20 minutes.
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4
Place the first laminate piece for the front edge of the countertop, holding it so it overhangs by 1 inch all around. Once it's properly positioned, press it to the surface. Press it in place with a laminate roller.
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5
Trim off the 1-inch overhanging portion of the laminate with a power router and laminate routing bit. Repeat the process for each edge of the countertop.
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6
Set dowel rods on the countertop, front to back, about 1 foot apart. Lay the piece of laminate for the top over the rods. Position the piece properly. Slide the rods out one by one, from the middle, and press down the piece so it makes contact with the surface.
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7
Press the whole top piece in place with your laminate roller. Trim off the overhanging edges with your router.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear goggles when cutting the laminate.
