New countertops can add value and beauty to your home. Laminate countertops are a budget- friendly option to update a kitchen. However, having your laminate countertops installed by a professional can cost a pretty penny. By learning install laminate countertops yourself you can save money and have a beautiful kitchen.
Instructions
1. Remove the old countertops. Turn off the water to your sink and detach the plumbing. You may need to use a knife or razor blade to cut the caulk along the edge of the sink before removing it. Lighter sinks can be left in place and removed with the old countertops. Older countertops may be screwed, glued, or nailed in place. You may have to use a little muscle to remove the old countertops.
2. Measure the length and width of the lower kitchen cabinets. Take these measurements to your home improvement store for help in ordering the right counter. It is important to keep in mind that if your new countertops are shorter than your current countertop the backsplash you may need to repair or redo the old backsplash.
3. Screw build-up strips to the bottom kitchen cabinets so the edges overhang. When installing the new countertop, screw through the strips into the countertop. Make sure the screws you use to drill through the buildup strips are not long enough to go completely through the top of the laminate countertop. To make this easier, predrill 3/16-inch holes for the mounting screws. Not all countertops need buildup straps. Some use metal L-brackets, which can be screwed on per manufacturer directions.
4. Seal the gap between the laminate countertop and the backsplash with a bead of silicone. Dip your finger into some rubbing alcohol, then use your finger to smooth out the silicone.
5. Attach an end cap. With laminate countertops you are likely to have an exposed edge. You will need to purchase an end cap for each exposed edge. Warm the end cap in the oven or use an iron to melt the glue and press it into place on the edge of your counter. Make sure all of the edges are covered. After the cap has cooled, use a router to carefully remove any excess from the end cap.
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