The installation of a laminate countertop could be a project if you have to substitute your countertops and stop paying labor costs. Laminate counters that complement any design style – from classical to urban and modern – are available in various colors, textures, and patterns. Laminate is a biodegradable and environmentally friendly material. In this blog post, we will teach you how a person can install laminate countertops by himself.
Before you buy:
Determine the depth of your cabinet first. A depth of 23-3/4 inches is the benchmark. After that, measure the actual height of your backsplash. Now check if your walls are relatively straight with a proper level.
A bit bow is all right so that you can adjust your laminate countertops. Some cases may require a customized top. Also, confirm whether the walls reach an angle of 90-degree or not.
Installation of Laminate Countertop:
Step 1: Erase the Sink
Erase the range, sink, drain, and disposal trap. Detach the area from the drainage and sewerage lines. Remove the sink sleeves and drag the sink out.
Step 2: Sliced the Old Countertops
Sliced the old countertop along the backside. Erase the bottom corner clamps and nuts that hold the cabinets down. You may have to trim the glue in some cases. Make sure that you don’t attach your dishwasher to the lower part of the counter. The old countertop can be used as a framework to trim your new laminate countertop.
Step 3: Use the Perfect Saw to Slice Countertops
Use a perfect saw to slice the new countertop lengthwise. Sharpen the outer margin of the countertop in one direction smoothly.
Step 4: Make Sure you Clear the Margin
Make sure you clear the margin of your fresh laminate countertop from your cabinet drawers. You can also use strips for this purpose. The strips are provided with some laminate. With 3/4-inch pieces of board, you can also create your own. Hold it onto the cabinets, drill the pilot holes and connect the bands about 2 feet from the ends with clots or short wood screws.
Step 5: Measuring tape on the upper edge
Use measuring tape on the upper edge of the backsplash to mark the appropriate points. Position the countertop in a place. Try to fasten and tighten the miter bolts as closely as possible to get a mitered corners.
Step 6: Set the Compass
A gap on the wall will probably be noticed. Set the compass in the broadest gap and write a line on the rear corner. Remove the fresh countertop and put a belt sander into the line. Register any burrs, remove them from the surface in a single direction. Check the fitness and make further modifications.
Step 7: Insert the End Trim
Insert the end trim and finish where the counter fits and overlaps the walls. If the exposed edges have an iron-on end, stick it on, hold a moist piece of cloth over it and press it with iron. You can cut, trim and touch down the edges according to your fitting.
Step 8: Use the Existing Laminate Countertops
Use the existing laminate countertop as a tutorial to create a cut-out for the already existing washbasin and range top. Use the framework that comes in the box when you install the new sink or range top. If you have no template on your dish or range top, set the item on the forefront of the new countertop upside down. Trace the outline and center it. Trace a 1/2-inch band on the edges within the curves.
Step 9: Place Masking Tape
On the 1/2-inch line inside the layout edge, your cut will take place. To protect the countertop, place masking tape around the edges. In each edge of your guide, drill a few 1/2-inch boot holes. Cut out the slice and make sure that it doesn’t fall. File all sharp edges until they become smooth so that when you implement the top or sink of the range, it does not cut your hand or get splitters.
Step 10: Add Angle Brackets
You may want to add additional assistance close to the edges, especially along the back, before connecting your fresh laminate countertop to the basic cabinets. Drill through the belt or add angle brackets inside your cabinets and adjust them underneath the top of the strips. Starting from the longest piece, place the countertop. Utilize the suggested adhesive to the miter bolts.
Step 11: String the Miter Bolts
String the miter bolts and prevent the substrate from cracking. Any excess glue is cleaned. To mount the upper part to the brackets, use pan head.
Step 12: Place the Sink and Chamber
Place the sink and chamber and apply silicone on the edges and the back wall. Try to connect the plumbing.
Step 13: Place Drawers and Doors
Place drawers and doors in your cabinet. Go back and appreciate your kitchen, which is beautifully updated now.
