DIY Network

Laundry Room From "Wasted Spaces" episode DWSP-103

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Screw the ledgers directly into the studs using a screw gun. This way, the countertop will be supported.

Countertop Preparation

1. Decide where you want your counter and what kind of counter you want to install.

2. Measure where the laminate countertop will go before cutting anything.

3. Cut a 1x2 with a table saw for your ledgers boards. Ledger boards are attached to the wall to support the counter.

4. Draw a level line with a level and a pencil.

Tip:

• A stud finder is a great and easy way to find studs.

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To cut laminate, you can use a machine operated tool, or you can use a laminate cutter, which is as easy as using a pair of scissors.

Cutting Plywood and Laminate

1. Cut the shape of your countertop using a circular saw onto a large 3/4" piece of birch plywood.

2. Always remember to cut along the good side, not the waste side of the line.

3. The plywood will be used as a base for the countertop, and the laminate is added to the top to create the smooth surface counter.

4. Use the cut plywood as a template for marking your line for the laminate top.

5. The laminate cutter can take a lot out, so make sure you are on the right side of the line.

Tips:

• Use a chalk line in order to have a straight line to cut.

• Laminate is brittle, so be careful when you bend.

Using a small roller, make sure to evenly spread the contact cement to ensure that both surfaces will lay completely flat to each other.

Laying Laminate

1. After cutting the laminate, dry fit onto the plywood to make sure it's correct.

2. Use contact cement to both the laminate and the plywood. Directions for contact cement are on the can. Follow them closely as you only get one chance to make the right bond!

Tips:

• Make sure to have proper ventilation when using contact cement.

• Use wood slats to help keep the surface in place, while rolling the air bubbles out.

	Using a screw gun, attach the counter to the ledger board. It is helpful to have two people during this step so that someone can screw in the counter while the other holds it in place.
	A chase is a three sided box used to cover an object.

Countertop Installation

1. Use wood glue to attach trim to the edge of the countertop. Use a nail gun for added strength.

2. Fix nail holes with caulk and repaint if necessary.

Covering Pipes

1. Measure the duct, then cut down 3/4" plywood on a table saw. To make cross cuts, use a chop saw.

2. You can also cover the exposed duct line for the dryer by building another chase. Just use the same process as covering the pipe.

Tip:

• Paint the chase the same color as the wall, that way the chase will disappear and will become part of the design.

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