How to Resurface a Countertop

Update your kitchen by resurfacing the countertops.

One of the largest items in your kitchen is your countertop. If you want to give your kitchen a makeover or just an updated look, resurfacing the countertop is an option. You probably already have all, or most, of the tools necessary to complete the task of resurfacing the countertop. You can do most resurfacing jobs in a weekend or less, depending on the size of your counters.

Things You'll Need

• Ammonia
• Rags
• Scraper (optional)
• Medium-grit sandpaper
• Laminate sheets
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife
• Metal ruler
• Glue
• Foam brush
• Towel
• Rolling pin

Instructions

1. Clean the surface of your old laminate using an ammonia-based cleaner. Scrub the surface well to remove all traces of dirt. Use a scraper to remove any stubborn debris.

2. Allow the surface of the counter to dry completely before continuing.

3. Sand the surface of your countertop with a medium-grit sandpaper just enough to create a roughness to help the glue adhere.

4. Take careful measurements of your counter top. Transfer these measurements to the back of your new laminate.

5. Cut out the laminate using a utility knife. Make sure the entire piece of laminate fits on your work table so that it does not bend and break in the middle of your cutting. Use a metal ruler to help you get a perfectly straight edge.

6. Apply the glue directly to the counter, using a foam brush. Give the entire section of counter a coat before you set the new laminate on top. Spread the glue in a thin, even layer.

7. Place the new laminate on top of the glue. Get a friend to help you place it, especially with the longer pieces that may be hard to handle by yourself.

8. Push the laminate up against the walls to make sure it fits properly.

9. Lay a large towel over your new laminate. Use a rolling pin to smooth out the surface of the laminate and remove any air bubbles.

10. Allow the laminate to dry for 24 hours. Add edging in the same manner as the larger pieces of laminate, if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• You can take the countertops off the cabinets if you desire to work on them outside or in a workshop.

• If your old counter laminate is damaged by chips and missing pieces, you need to remove it before adding the new laminate. Use a special stripper to loosen the glue. Use a metal scraper to gently lift the old laminate off the counter frame. Sand the surface to remove all traces of glue and make your surface as smooth as possible.

References

• Kitchen Counter Tops: How to Resurface Kitchen Counter Tops

Resources

• Wise 4 Living: Resurfacing Kitchen Counter Top