Laminate countertops are among the most common choices for many homeowners. They offer durability and a great look while not being too hard on your budget. Many people think installing this type of countertop is a job that is only for professionals. Fortunately, with a little bit of know how, this job can be tackled by most do-it-yourselfers. This article will provide some useful tips for installing and cutting countertops.

Preparation

The best way to start is by removing the old laminate surface, although some people choose to put the new countertop over the old one. Next, you will need to make blanks for the new countertops by tracing the old ones on to some type of fiberboard.

You will then begin cutting the countertop blanks to the exact sizes of the original countertops. After cutting countertop blanks, you will clamp them together wherever there will be a joint. You can then drill holes where the two pieces will be fastened together.

Laminates

After the blanks are made, you can begin cutting the countertop laminate to size. This material usually comes in sheets that are 3′ x 6′ or 5′ x 12′. When you are making your measurements for cutting countertop laminate material, it’s important to add some extra material to each measurement. This will allow for any errors that you make and you can trim it off later. You can cut the laminate with a carbide tip scoring tool.

After you have made all of your cuts, you can begin gluing the laminate to the blanks. This should be started on the sides and edges. After applying the adhesive and putting the laminate in place, use a roller to make sure it is smooth. This will also ensure that the entire surface of the laminate is making contact with the blank.

After this, you can begin trimming off the excess laminate. This will be done with a small tool called a laminate cutter. This tool resembles a small router. At this point, the countertop can be installed on the brackets that the old one was removed from.

Screws will be used to fasten the countertop to the brackets. This will be done from the bottom and up through the bottom of the countertop. When the countertop is in place, run a bead of clear silicone sealant around the edges where the back splash meets the wall.

After the unit is in place, you can then begin cutting your countertop sink hole. This will be done by measuring the base of the sink. Transfer that measurement to the area where the sink will be and then drill some starter holes. You can then use a jigsaw to cut out the opening for the sink. Then you can install the sink and all of the attachments.

Tags: Cutting Countertops

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