How to Build Laminate Countertops

One of first things you need to know before building a laminate countertop are the common dimensions for countertops. For example, kitchen countertops are 26 inches deep while bathroom countertops are only 22 inches deep. You'll need to know how to use a table saw, skill saw, and a router with a laminate cutting bit. Also, since laminate countertops will require contact cement it is recommended that the area you are working in be well ventilated. While building counter tops might look a little difficult, with the proper research and the proper tools the do it yourself homeowner can perform this task.

Instructions

1

Measure the length of the countertop that you are building and record your findings. Set the table saw fence to 26 inches. Rip as many pieces as it takes to cover the entire length of your countertop.

2

Set the table saw fence at 1 inches. Rip as many pieces as you need to cover the entire perimeter of the countertop. For example, if the length of the countertop is 96 inches, then you'll need to cut a minimum of 20 feet.

3

Turn the countertop material over where the bottom side is facing up. Measure and cut the 1 -inch strips so that it covers the entire perimeter of the countertop material. Run a bead of glue around the perimeter of the countertop and place the 1 -inch strips on top of the glue and secure them with the 3d box nails. Be certain that the edges are even.

4

Set the table saw fence at 2 inches and rip enough of the laminate to cover the edges of the countertop that will be exposed once it is installed. Glue the short pieces to the front edges of the countertop first. Cut the excess off using the router and the laminate cutting bit. Sand the edges with a sanding block.

5

Glue the longer pieces onto the edges of the countertop. Cut the excess off using the router with the laminate cutting bit and sand the edges with a sanding block. Turn the countertop over so that the top is facing up.

6

Apply glue to the bottom side of the laminate material and set aside. Apply glue to the top side of the countertop and let it dry. Next, apply a second coat of glue as needed on either the wood countertop or the bottom of the laminate material.

7

After the contact cement gets tacky, lay the -by--inch wood strips on top of the countertop so that you can lay the laminate material on it without it adhering to the countertop itself. After you are certain that the whole top area is covered begin removing the sticks one-by-one until they are all removed. Trim the excess off using the router with the laminate cutting bit and file the edges to take the sharp edge off of the laminate material.