DIY Network

Cutting, Shaping and Scraping: Laminate Application Technique From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-210

Laminates are a great covering surface for a lot of inexpensive materials, such as MDF. Host David Thiel explains how to apply your own laminate floor.

Laminate is applied with laminate glue, which can be water-based or a thinner base. Water-based is easier to clean up, but takes longer to dry. It comes in a spray can or in liquid form, which you can apply with a roller or brush.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Applying laminate

1. Apply the edges before the top.

2. Apply the glue to both surfaces. MDF soaks up a lot of glue so make sure to use plenty.

3. Wait until the glue is tacky, but doesn't come off on your fingers.

   Note:: the edges of the laminate should hang over the edge of the material (figure A).

4. Use a router to take the edges down until they are flush.

5. Now, you can apply the top. Apply glue to both surfaces, making sure to cover the edges of the top surface completely.

6. Make sure the surface is clean. For larger pieces, use dowel sticks to place the piece. Lay the dowels across the surface spaced so that when you put the laminate on top of the dowels, it will not sag. Position the laminate on the dowels (figure B), and then press the laminate down onto the surface pulling the dowels out as you go.

7. Use a roller (figure C) to press the laminate down. Make sure to roll all the surfaces, especially the edges. Be careful around the edges as overhanging laminate can easily break off.

8. Use a router with a flush-cutting bit to get rid of the overhang (figure D). Slightly tip the router away from the board to get more of a bevel cut and leave a little bit of trim.

9. Use a file set at an angle to trim the edges.

10. Sandpaper is the final step in finishing up the edges. If you've made a few mistakes, you might want to use a marker to cover up.
    

RESOURCES :

Porter-Cable Laminate Trimmer
Phone: 800-4US-TOOL (487-8665)
Website: www.portercable.com