How to cut and join laminate countertops. Laminate is an easy and inexpensive way to replace worn-out or damaged kitchen countertops that add value and beauty to your real estate.
Unlike most other surface materials, laminate panels are resistant to all manner of damage, including scratches and heat from cooking utensils which makes them a priceless asset in the busy kitchen setting.
Handy homeowners can also save time and money by installing them themselves. Laminate itself isn’t difficult to join together but each piece must fit flush with its adjoining boards before installing.
Any slight raising or depression will disfigure the entire installation to some degree, so be sure you have everything exactly where it’s meant to be before popping it into place.
How to cut and join laminate countertops
Measure the area you intend to install laminate over. Mark the area with a chalk line, which will serve as your guide for shaping the countertop. Use a circular saw to cut the laminate to size based on the chalk line you created.
Ensure that the pieces of laminate fit together properly by testing them against each other. Use a utility knife to remove excess laminate from around the edges and handles of your countertop.
Cutting and measuring the laminate
Measure and cut the laminate countertops to the desired size using a sander or file to smooth off any rough edges.
When connecting two pieces along a run, like in a corner, make sure to cut at a 45-degree angle so that you have an easier time fitting it together into place.
The pieces must fit together
Make sure that the pieces fit together properly by sliding them into place. Make sure the countertop is cut correctly and will fit together as expected by performing a dry run.
The countertop pieces should be turned over
Take the two countertop pieces, and flip them over. Cut a 1/2 inch piece of wood to size so that it lays across the gap you created. Attach this along the edge with screws.
The screws must be shorter so they don’t go through on the other side. All you’re doing is trying to create an environment where you can attach your miter bots to these bits of wood that fit into the slots on either end of your countertops.
When they’re attached and connected they’ll elevate your countertops at an angle, and once we add some legs to our set up that’s how high they’ll be lifted off the ground.
Flip the countertop over again
Sand the underside of the countertop piece until it is flush with the other side. Apply glue and then clamp the pieces together. Wait for a set amount of time before assembling furniture.
The countertop pieces slid together
Within a matter of minutes, the two sections of the countertop will slip into place and firmly fit together. You may also want to wipe away any excess glue that may have been squeezed out during the process.
Place yourself under the countertop
Attach one of the sawhorses to the table. Attach two blocks of wood to the undersides of it. Place two more blocks of wood on top and make sure they are level to each other and to the countertop so you can attach the countertop evenly.
Then, place a miter bolt below your cut and tighten it a little at a time until you reach the right fit. When satisfied, add another bolt to that spot.
Check for clearances/fit again before attaching any further bolts as well as afterward then proceed with doing this for 3 or 4 positions along with your cut.
How do you hide seams on laminate countertops?
Use your putty knife to spread some seam filler onto the plastic plate. Use your brush to mix the filler until the color is consistent.
Scoop some filler onto your putty knife and drag it across the seam. Repeat this step with each new area that requires fixing until all of the visible seams have been filled away completely.
Which side of laminate do you cut?
When it comes to cutting a piece of wood, there are a few ways that you can approach the problem. You could use a table saw, miter saw, tile saw or even a circular saw depending on what size your plank is.
But just because you have the technology doesn’t mean you should at every turn no matter what type of job it is.
So if you’re attempting to cut larger pieces of wood, we suggest using that good old hand saw because nothing beats the speed with which it will get the job done.
Install countertop
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