How to Install End Caps On a Countertop

Laminate countertops are by far the most common style of countertop on the market. They are often cut to length and then fitted into place. Because of this, you are required to install an endcap to cover the inner material of the countertop that was left exposed when it was cut. You could hire a carpenter to complete this simple job, but you can just as easily do it yourself by following these steps.

Instructions

Installing Endcaps

1

Place the countertop upside down on a solid but soft surface, so as not to scratch the finish.

2

Run a bead of wood glue along the top, flush with the side where the cap will be placed. Press the buildup strip firmly into place to increase the apparent width of the end of the countertop. Drill a few screws into the wood to affix it firmly.

3

Flip the counter right-side up. Use a paint brush to apply an even layer of contact adhesive to both the side of the countertop where the end cap will be placed and the endcap itself. Let the glue sit for a few minutes until its sticky.

4

Fit the endcap carefully to the end of the countertop. Once it is placed, it cant be moved, so make sure its in the right spot. Use the seam roller to press the entire length of the endcap down firmly and work out any air trapped between the two pieces. Allow the endcap to dry for a few hours before continuing.

5

Slick down the edges of the endcap with petroleum jelly. Use your router to trim off the excess cap around the edges of the countertop. The petroleum jelly acts as a lubricant to avoid any friction burns or damage to the countertop laminate.

6

Use the file to round the edges of the end cap so that they are not angled or sharp. When doing this, remember to file toward the countertop rather than away from it, to avoid chipping or splitting the endcap.

7

Douse the edge with an adhesive solvent to remove any unwanted glue or petroleum jelly that may remain. Clean the surface with a rag. Youre done.