DIY Network

Installing Laminate on Counter Tops See how to give your counters a new look. From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-709

The old plain plywood counters get a fabulous curtain call!

DIY to the Rescue Nathan Haun teaches volunteer Randi Widdon how to install laminate on countertops. Then, Nathan, Randi, and Amy Devers finish installing the countertops by adding trim and a backsplash.

advertisement

Materials:

laminate
edge banding (pre-glued)
roller for contact cement
j-roller
contact cement
laminate trimmer
batten strips
backsplash
adhesive
scrap pieces of wood
clamps

Figure A

Steps:

1. Start by rolling contact cement along the edge of the counter top using a roller (Figure A)

2. Then press the edge banding firmly in place (Figure B). Smooth into place using the j-roller (Figure C).

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

3. Use a Laminate Trimmer to trim the top of the edge banding flush with the counter top.

4. Roll contact cement onto the counter top (Figure D).

5. Once the contact cement tacks up place batten strips every few inches along the counter top.

6. Then estimate where the laminate top should be positioned, be sure to leave room for the backsplash (Figure E & F).

Figure E

Figure F

7. Once you are happy with the alignment, remove the batten strips and press the laminate into place (Figure G).

8. Use the J-roll to further press the laminate into place and trim any edges that are hanging over (Figure H).

Figure G

Figure H

9. Apply adhesive to the backsplash and press into position along the perimeter of the countertop (Figure I & J).

Figure I

Figure J

10. To keep the backsplash in place while the glue dries, use a few scrap pieces of wood and clamps to push it into place (Figure K & L).

Figure K

Figure L

RESOURCES :

For more information about The Tampa Theatre and it's restoration, visit www.tampatheatre.org .