How to Cover Cabinets With Laminate

When discussing the process of re-facing cabinets, the discussion often includes using a wood veneer. However, if you want to take advantage of different color options, install a laminate veneer that does not resemble wood. You can go to a home improvement center and pick out a laminate used for resurfacing counter tops. Follow the same basic principle for resurfacing counter tops to achieve a professional look to your cabinets.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Laminate cutter or utility knife
• Laminate adhesive
• Laminate roller
• Laminate trimmer

Instructions

1. Remove all of the hardware from your cabinets including knobs, handles and hinges. Set the doors to the cabinets off to the side.

2. Locate the screws inside the cabinets that secure the cabinets to the wall. Remove the screws with a screwdriver and place the cabinets in a well-ventilated area.

3. Cut a piece of laminate slightly larger than the front of the cabinet with a laminate cutter or utility knife.

4. Apply laminate glue to the face of the cabinet with a small paintbrush and then apply the laminate glue to the back of the piece of laminate. Allow the laminate glue time to set-up. When it is dry to the touch, it is ready to go.

5. Place the laminate onto the face of the cabinet and press it into place with a laminate roller. When the glued surfaces touch, it causes the glue to adhere and the laminate sticks in place.

6. Cut a hole through the laminate directly in the center of a cut out for the door with your utility knife. Use the hole to look through so you can cut out the laminate that covers the door.

7. Place a laminate trimmer onto the laminate and run the trimmer around the outside edge of the laminate and on the inside edge for the door openings, to trim off the excess laminate and make the laminate flush with the cabinet.

8. Repeat the process for the ends of the cabinets if they are exposed. Also, repeat the process for each cabinet door.

References

• This Old House: How to Laminate a Countertop; Tom Silva; September 2008