Step 1: Plan the Redo

The first step in considering how to redo a laundry room is to determine how you use the space. How often are you in the laundry room? Do you sort, treat, wash, dry and fold in the same space? If not, think about what tasks you do where. If you are less likely to sort and fold in the laundry room itself, you may not need a folding table. You may want to use that space for cabinets instead.

No matter how you design the room, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Keeping the washer and dryer next to each other makes laundry much easier.
• Newer models of appliances allow for stacking the washer and dryer. If this is an option in your home, you will save a lot of space.
  
• Detergents, stain removers and other laundry aids should be kept next to, above or underneath the washing machine.
  
• All detergents and cleaning supplies should be kept out of reach of children.
  
• Dryer vent fires are among the most common household fires in the country. Make sure you do not crush your dryer vent and have it checked regularly.

Step 2: Clear the Laundry Room

Before moving the washer and dryer, make sure the water is turned off. Carefully disconnect all hoses and cords.

Use an appliance dolly to help move the washer.

Step 3: Install the Linoleum Floor Tiles

Linoleum tile squares are available at most home improvement stores and online. They typically come in 12"x12" squares with a peel-off adhesive back.

Peel-and-stick linoleum floor tiles can be installed directly on top of old flooring as long as the flooring is clean and without imperfection (Image 1). If you have a flaw in your old floor, sand it down or remove it before installing the new tiles.

Install peel-and-stick tiles using the same principles as ceramic tiles. Start in the middle and work toward the edges of the room. Peel back the backing and follow the arrows located on the backing of the tiles to make a good pattern.

When reaching a corner, fit the tile in the space. Mark the edges with a pencil. The excess tile then simply snaps off. To cut, use a straight edge and a utility knife (Image 2). Peel the backing off and place it down.

Tips:

• To protect your knees from all that kneeling, wear knee pads!
  
• It's a good idea to install tiles along a chalk line to keep them straight.
  
• You may have to score the tile a couple of times in order to cut all the way through.
  
• If you have to remove a tile, carefully lift it using a paint scraper or other pry tool. Be careful not to damage the flooring underneath.

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    Image 1

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    Image 2

Step 4: Install the Ledger Boards for Countertops

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

Measure where the laminate countertop will go before cutting anything.

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

Draw a level line with a level and a pencil.

Step 5: Cut the Plywood and the Laminate

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

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

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.

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

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

Step 6: Install the Countertop

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

Use contact cement to secure the laminate to the plywood (Image 1). 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.

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

Fix nail holes with caulk and repaint if necessary.

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 (Image 2).

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    Image 1

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    Image 2

Step 7: Cover the Pipes

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

You can also cover the exposed duct line for the dryer by building another chase, or three-sided box. 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.

Step 8: Install the Cabinet

To add extra support for the cabinet, install a cleat, which is a board that is screwed into the studs of the wall.

After securing the cleat to the wall, place the cabinet onto the cleat. Secure the cabinet by using a screw gun and screws.

Tips:

• Make certain to keep in mind the height of the washer and dryer, when the doors of the cabinets are opened.
  
• Consult a plumber and electrician before relocating your washer and dryer.
  
• Before reinstalling the washer and dryer, it's a good idea to make sure all of the hoses are in good condition.
  
• Keep the duct work clean from lint and dust because they can be fire hazards.
  
• Dryers need 220 volts of power. Always consider that when you are moving appliances around in your laundry room. It's a good idea to consult an electrician when moving the volt power outlet.