How to Resurface Kitchen Countertops With Laminates
One of the best ways to freshen up a tired looking kitchen is by changing the look of the countertops, and one of the easiest ways to do that is by resurfacing them with laminates. Laminates have come a long way since first being introduced in 1912. Composed mainly of paper and melamine resin, laminates are available in an almost limitless array of colors and textures. Many are made to resemble more expensive countertops, including granite and marble. Laminates can, in many cases, be placed directly over existing laminate and wood surfaces. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Orbital sander or sanding block
- Course sandpaper
- Mineral spirits
- Laminate material
- Circular saw
- Fine-tooth saw blade
- Contact cement
- Paint brush
- Dowels
- Laminate roller
- Hand router
- Laminate router blade
- Wood file, fine
Instructions
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Refreshing Change
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1
Measure and record the full dimensions of the countertops to be resurfaced. This includes all top surfaces, edges/countered edges and backsplashes. Remember to add an additional ½ inch to ¾ inch to every dimension to allow for trimming. Take all measurements along when purchasing the laminate.
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2
Remove the sink (if possible) and prepare the surface to be covered by cleaning with mineral spirits. Sand the surface with an orbital sander or sanding block fitted with course sandpaper. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and allow to dry completely.
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3
Lay out the measurements on the backside of the laminate, including the additional material for trimming. Cut from the backside using a fine-tooth blade in a circular saw. Mark the location of the sink, and make sink cuts with the circular saw.
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4
Apply an even layer of contact cement to both the surface and the backside of the cut laminate using a paint brush. When just dry to touch, place dowels across the surface and carefully position the laminate.
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5
Carefully remove the dowels, one at a time, while pressing the laminate down on the countertop. Use the laminate roller to smooth down the laminate and create a strong bond.
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6
Use a router with a laminate blade to trim the edges. Use a fine wood file to gently ease the edges. Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for all surfaces.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Contact cement is very unforgiving. There is only one opportunity to place the laminate properly on the surface. The dowels will help in this process.
References
- Photo Credit Beautiful and new kitchen furniture on modern kitchen image by terex from Fotolia.com
