Laminate Kitchen Countertops

Does your kitchen need a facelift? A new laminate countertop can freshen up any kitchen. It is durable, attractive and not too difficult to install.

Prepare the surface

First, sand and clean the surface of your countertop. Remove all vestiges of paint and finish, and wipe the surface clean. Cut the plastic laminate with hand tools like a hand saw or utility knife, or with power tools like a circular saw or saber saw. If you cut the laminate with a power tool, cut it from the back, to prevent chipping, and use a fine-tooth blade.

Glue a laminate strip to the front edge

Now, roughen up the surface of the front edge of your countertop with coarse sandpaper. If you are covering ends, do them first and then the front edge. Clean the dust from sanding away. Paint the front edge of the countertop and the back of the laminate strip with contact cement, and let both dry to the touch. Do not leave them to dry too long, as this weakens the bond. You may need more than one coat; let dry between coats. Carefully stick laminate to the front edge, then press down firmly with a roller. When the laminate is firmly affixed, use a trim router to cut away the excess.

Apply contact cement to countertop

Now, rough up the top of your counter, clean it, apply contact cement to both surfaces and allow to dry as you did before. With the top of the counter, it is very important that you position the laminate carefully before adhering it. Make this task easier by placing dowel rods at 12 inch intervals across the cemented surface, and lay the laminate on top. Position the laminate, and slide out the dowels one by one, beginning in the center. Press down the laminate as you go, and finish off with a roller. Trim off the overhang with a trim router, and file the edges smooth.

Take care of your new countertop by wiping it clean with a damp sponge or cloth and mild soap. Harsh chemical cleaners mar the surface; use baking soda or a very mild abrasive cleaner for stains. If properly cared for, your new laminate countertop can give you years of beauty and functionality.

A new laminate countertop is durable, attractive and not too difficult to install